World-Famous Powerlifter’s Transformative Journey: From Corner Store Heist to Self-Surrender and Redemption Behind Bars

This bold decision led to a prison sentence of three years and one month. Despite the severity of the consequence, Kennedy firmly believes it was the most positive choice he ever made.

In an interview with the Daily Mail, ahead of the AusFitness Expo in Melbourne, the 33-year-old powerlifter shared insights about his time in prison, which began in 2012.

“I was 20 years old then,” Kennedy recounted. “I had spent my late teens living on the streets after falling into the drug scene, heavily involved with meth and LSD.”

‘I was 20 at the time and had spent my late teens living on the streets after getting caught up in the drug scene, mainly using meth and LSD,’ he said.

‘The reaction from my parents (about a pending jail sentence) was what you would expect, but I knew it had to be done. 

‘Jail was certainly eye-opening, on my first day inside a couple of the Mongrel Mob (gang) members asked if I wanted to join in on their workout.

Powerlifter Chris Kennedy was going down a bad path so he decided to take some drastic action – he called CrimeStoppers in New Zealand to dob himself in after robbing a store

The result was a three-year and one-month jail sentence – and Kennedy maintains it was the best decision he has ever made

‘It was tough, but at the same time amazing, the endorphins…I had never felt like that before.

‘The sense of community was also fantastic, I finally felt like I belonged.’ 

After serving two years – Kennedy was released early for good behaviour –  he enrolled to study sports science.

A diploma and bachelor’s degree followed, before Kennedy completed his master’s at Auckland’s University of Technology.

He is still studying, with the Kiwi currently working through his PhD at the University of Queensland. 

While in Auckland, Kennedy began a voluntary strength and conditioning role with the New Zealand Breakers, who play in Australia’s National Basketball League (NBL) competition.

He also continued his powerlifting, and will start as one of the favourites at the AusFitness Expo in his 82.5kg weight division.

Athletes taking part are permitted to use steroids, but Kennedy – who is ranked No.1 in Australia and 12th on the world standings – insisted it doesn’t detract from the level of competition.

After serving two years – Kennedy was released early for good behaviour – he enrolled to study sports science and is currently working on his PhD at the University of Queensland

The FIFO worker spoke to the Daily Mail ahead of the AusFitness Expo in Melbourne from March 21

‘It is part of the Australian Powerlifting League (APL), it will definitely be entertaining,’ the FIFO worker said.

‘I’m then competing in a similar event in Germany, it is always a thrill to test myself against the world’s best.’ 

Kennedy also had some advice for those making poor life choices – dictate your own future.

‘I wouldn’t change a thing…it is my story,’ he said.

‘Don’t hold grudges, it doesn’t serve any purpose. And always look to be the best version of yourself.’