Chicago's Premier Powerlifting Competition
What is Midwest Showdown?
Midwest Showdown is Chicago's premier powerlifting competition, bringing together the strongest collegiate and open athletes from across the country for an unforgettable weekend of competition.
More than just a meet, Midwest Showdown combines elite lifting, professional production, live commentary, vendor experiences, recovery stations, great food, and an electric atmosphere that athletes and spectators won't forget.
Whether you're competing, coaching, or watching from the crowd, Midwest Showdown is where strength, community, and performance come together.
Event Highlights
Why Attend?
Midwest Showdown is more than a powerlifting meet. It's a weekend celebrating strength, community, and competition. From elite lifting and live commentary to vendors, recovery stations, and an electric primetime atmosphere, there's something for everyone.
Elite Competition
See some of the country's strongest collegiate and open lifters compete.
Primetime Atmosphere
Experience our featured lifters under the lights with live commentary.
Vendor Experiences
Shop, eat, explore brands, and experience activations throughout the day.
More Than a Meet
Spend the weekend surrounded by athletes, coaches, families, and the strength community.
Experience Midwest Showdown Live
Included with Your Ticket
- Access to all competition platforms
- Primetime Session
- Vendor Village
- Food & beverage vendors
- Athlete & sponsor activations
- Family-friendly atmosphere
General Event Schedule
Collegiate Showdown
Stay for Primetime: Watch the weekend's top-ranked lifters compete under the lights in our featured session with live commentary and an electric championship atmosphere!
Open Showdown
Stay for Primetime: Watch the weekend's top-ranked lifters compete under the lights in our featured session with live commentary and an electric championship atmosphere!
Athlete Schedule
Click on each day to view the schedule
Saturday, November 7
Morning Session
Doors Open
Weigh-Ins
Competition
Primetime Session
Weigh-Ins
Competition
Awards Ceremony
Sunday, November 8
Morning Session
Doors Open
Weigh-Ins
Competition
Primetime Session
Weigh-Ins
Competition
Awards Ceremony
Training for Midwest Showdown?
5W Strength Club is the official training facility of Midwest Showdown. Train on competition-grade equipment—including Eleiko combo racks, competition barbells, calibrated plates, and everything you need to feel confident on meet day.
Get Discounted Day Passes
Stay Close to the Action
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Chicago Chinatown
Enjoy exclusive event rates at our official hotel partner, conveniently located near the venue, Chinatown, and downtown Chicago!
Just 7 minutes from venue
Near Chinatown & Downtown
Exclusive Event Rate
Free Breakfast & Wi-Fi
Ready to Experience Midwest Showdown?
Join hundreds of athletes, coaches, and spectators for one unforgettable weekend of competition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Tentative flight and session assignments are currently available on LiftingCast.
Assignments may be adjusted as we get closer to meet weekend and finalize the competition roster.
Athletes should continue checking LiftingCast for the most up-to-date assignments.
View Current Flight & Session Assignments:
Collegiate
https://liftingcast.com/meets/mdpblpahun9g/roster
Open
Zhou B Art Center
Chicago, Illinois
We recommend booking through our Official Hotel Partner to receive exclusive discounted rates and stay just minutes from the venue.
5W Strength Club is the official training facility for Midwest Showdown and offers discounted day passes for competitors.
Yes! Family and friends can watch the competition live from our YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@5wevents.
Yes. Spectator seating will be available throughout the competition. Seating is first-come, first-served, so we recommend arriving early!
Yes! Enjoy a vendor village, food options, athlete recovery stations, and more throughout the weekend.
Email: Weilin@5wbrand.com and we will be happy to help!
Midwest Showdown II is filling up!
250+ athletes. Two days. Our biggest event yet.
Spectator & coaching passes are limited. Secure yours before they sell out!