Ryan Kennelly
- ludwigpower
- Jul 27
- 2 min read
"THE BENCH MONSTER IS HERE."
Known as "THE BENCH MONSTER" Ryan Kennelly was the pinnacle of intensity and bench press proficiency. Known for his massive numbers and unwavering aggression, Kennelly made a name for himself by conquering numerous world records throughout the sport.
His first world record came in 2007 when he dethroned Gene Rychlak at the Bench Bash for Cash in Ukraine with a 1036 lbs multi-ply bench press. His speed under heavy weight was something to behold, as his presses were so explosive they can only be described as violent.
However, this was not the last time Ryan would make history. He would secure an all-time world record in 2008 with a 1075 lbs bench press. Ryan held this record over the sport from 2008-2013, ensuring that he would forever remain a pioneer in the world of elite bench pressers. He also bench pressed 650 lbs raw and 771 lbs single-ply. In September 2013 Ryan would have some of his prime stripped away from him as he was incarcerated for 30 months. But, Ryan would not let that define him as he once again stepped on the famed platform that had given him such notoriety. He was also the first person to bench press 800 pounds, as Anthony Clark's 800 lbs bench press was later reversed.
His competitive endeavors spanned from 1997-2015. In 2015 he hit a 903 lbs multi-ply bench, which was his last competition. He also has a "Road to the Arnold" series available on YouTube. This footage serves as inspiration for many elite lifters today and as an archive of the training that propelled Ryan to the top of the sport. He also hosts Bench Monster TV alongside Ashley Condray on YouTube Live every Thursday at 7pm PST.
Ryan's accomplishments in the sport will withstand the test of time as he laid the foundation for many of today's great lifters. We can call Ryan many things, but the most fitting of all I would argue is; LEGEND.
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