I just figured out how to go back years in the article history The bench press record has been in the article pretty much since the beginning Here it is Taking out the record would be a shame The reason there is a difference in the Guinness record and lifts sanctioned by less notable organizations is that there are different rules on what technique constitutes a lift if equipment is allowed to aid the lifter and if performance enhancing drugs are tested for If you take away all rules and judging then anyone can claim the record Aaron s home run record does not include the home runs he hit in the negro leagues Josh Gibson is not the HR record holder You can t just go out to your local gym alert the media and complete the lift It has to be judged by an existing set of regulations What is a lift Is there a pause on the chest Can the athlete use legs to push Can they be on drugs Who tests How often Who weighs the official plates that were used Does it have to be a standard bench Are you allowed to put bungee cords under your lifting shirt When is the lift complete Lucky for us there is already an organization recognized by the world that takes care of all there rules and regulations The argument is simple If you want to be considered the greatest quarterback of all time you compete in the NFL the highest governing body of that sport Powerlifting and other sports like it have International Federations and that fact should be recognized here