Power is at the heart of rugby — but these players operate on another level entirely.
From monster bench presses to outrageous squat numbers, here’s an updated look at the strongest players in the game today.
Join RUCK’s Instagram broadcast channel and get the latest rugby news straight to your phone.
Rugby’s Strongest Players:
12. Andrew Porter – 350kg (Squat)
Most players boast bench press numbers, but Ireland’s Andrew Porter is in a league of his own when it comes to lower-body power. His reported 350kg squat borders on elite powerlifting territory. That raw leg drive explains why he remains one of the most destructive scrummagers in world rugby with Leinster and Ireland.
11= Manu Tuilagi – 190kg (Bench Press)
Few centres combine brute strength and explosiveness like Tuilagi. His 190kg bench press reflects the ferocity he brings to contact. Now playing in France, he remains one of the most physically imposing midfielders when fit.
11= Ben Tameifuna – 190kg (Bench Press)
At around 150kg, Tameifuna is a human wrecking ball. His 190kg bench press complements his devastating scrummaging power for club and country.
10. Asafo Aumua – 195kg (Bench Press)
The Hurricanes and All Blacks hooker made headlines after posting a 195kg bench press in preseason. Explosive, dynamic, and still in his 20s, Aumua represents the modern hybrid of strength and athleticism.
9= Rory Sutherland – 200kg (Bench Press)
A British & Irish Lion with a 200kg bench, Sutherland’s gym strength mirrors his relentless work in the scrum.
9= Nicky Smith – 200kg (Bench Press)
The former weightlifter’s 200kg bench press underpins his technical excellence at loosehead for club and country.
7. Max Lahiff – 210kg (Bench Press)
Lahiff’s 210kg bench puts him among the elite gym performers in the Premiership. His raw power and versatility make him one of the league’s most feared scrummagers.
6. Biyi Alo – 220kg (Bench Press)
With a reported 220kg bench press, Alo’s upper-body strength is extraordinary. Few outside the international arena can match that level of pressing power.
