The Strongest Rugby Players in the world (Ranked 10-1)

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 isn't just elite—it’s closer to what you'd see in Olympic powerlifting. That kind of strength helps explain why he's such a dominant force in the scrum. A stalwart of Leinster since 2016, Porter has also earned selection for two British & Irish Lions tours and is feared across world rugby.

Few players combine raw power and explosiveness quite like Manu Tuilagi. His 190kg bench press is a reflection of the physicality he brings to every carry and tackle. Born in Samoa but capped over 50 times for England, Tuilagi now plies his trade in France with Bayonne. Injuries have slowed him at times, but when fully fit, he’s still one of the most powerful centres on the planet.

At a staggering 151kg, Ben Tameifuna is one of the heaviest—and strongest—props in world rugby. His 190kg bench press is no surprise when you consider the sheer power he brings to the set piece. Originally part of the All Blacks setup before choosing to play for Tonga, Tameifuna now anchors the Bordeaux scrum in France, where his size and strength make him an immovable object for even the most seasoned front rowers.

New Zealand hooker Asafo Aumua caused a stir during Hurricanes pre-season in 2024 by smashing a 195kg bench press—with teammates roaring him on. Known for his explosive playing style and dynamic carrying, Aumua’s gym exploits underline why he’s such a threat on the field. Still just in his 20s, he continues to grow as both a power athlete and key figure in the All Blacks setup.

Scottish powerhouse Rory Sutherland has built a reputation for his relentless work rate—and his 200kg bench press confirms just how physically prepared he is. A British & Irish Lion in 2021, Sutherland played a key role in the first Test win over South Africa. Though he wasn’t named in the initial 2025 Lions squad, he was later called up and proved he’s still one of the toughest props in the business.

Before becoming a mainstay for Wales and Leicester Tigers, Nicky Smith was a weightlifter—and it shows. His 200kg bench press was first revealed in 2017. Now impressing in the Prem, Smith’s combination of raw strength and scrummaging technique makes him a vital cog in both club and country setups.

Known almost as much for his social media charisma as his on-field scrummaging, Max Lahiff is a beast in the gym. His 210kg bench press sets him apart, even in a league packed with powerful props. A regular for Bristol Bears since 2019, Lahiff surpassed 100 appearances in early 2025. Able to play on both sides of the scrum, his strength and versatility have earned him cult status in the Premiership.

Towering at 143kg and with a bench press of 220kg, Biyi Alo is built like a heavyweight champion. After battling through injury and club uncertainty—including a spell away from the game—Alo made a triumphant return and now stars for Ealing Trailfinders. His incredible strength, honed from years in top setups like Saracens and Wasps, makes him one of the most dominant scrummagers outside of international rugby.

Welsh tighthead WillGriff John once casually told the BBC his bench press max was 230kg—and he wasn’t joking. Describing himself as “genetically gifted,” John has powered through stints in Wales, New Zealand, France and England. Now back with Sale Sharks, his strength is a key asset in the front row. John brings brute force to every collision, and his gym numbers prove it.

Dubbed the “Beast from the East,” Moldovan-born prop Gheorghe Gajion matches John with a 230kg bench press. Now playing for Stade Montois in France, Gajion has represented both Moldova and Romania on the international stage. His enormous frame and freakish strength make him a nightmare for opposition front rows. With a nickname like that—and the power to back it up—it’s no wonder he shares the top spot.