Bonnie Bunyau Gustin was in his element at the 2021 Para Powerlifting World Cup in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, as he bagged a gold medal and a new world record.
The Malaysian powerlifter, competing in the men's 72kg event, blew the competition out of the water with his second lift of 221kg — China's Hu Peng, his nearest challenger, only managed to lift 214kg.
With the gold medal secured, the 22-year-old, who would be representing the country at the upcoming 2020 Paralympic Games, decided to challenge Roohallah Rostami's record of 229kg in that category.
Setting the weight at 230kg, he initially failed to lift it but was successful on his second try.
It was Bonnie's second gold medal at the Para Powerlifting World Cup this year, having won the men's 72kg category in Bangkok, Thailand, in May.
What a way to start the day at #Dubai2021 World Cup?
— Para Powerlifting (@Powerlifting) June 22, 2021
WR and ? for Malaysia's Bonnie Bunyau Gustin ?? in the men's up to 72kg!
2️⃣3️⃣0️⃣ kg
?HU Peng ??
?INNOCENT Nnamdi ??
? Live results: https://t.co/lp8svpU6bE#ParaPowerlifting @Paralympics @DCDuae pic.twitter.com/2BXCAugphr