Paul Anderson was the first commissioner of strength in World's Strongest Man and he held the record for years at 2840kg (6270lbs) for a back lift that he did in 1957. However, this was struck by the Guinness World Records due to doubts over authenticity. Thomas Topham (British) also deserves a mention. In 1741, he lifted 3 hogs heads of water 606kg (1,336lbs) which at the time was an unbelievable feat of strength.