So with all of this "modern training", tailored supplements & revolutionary PED's, the powerlifters of today are not really any stronger than the pioneers of the 1970's.
The 600lb bench was a 600lb raw bench. Knee wraps were basically crepe bandages that added nothing. If you couldn't walk the bar out, you couldn't compete. A 900lb, 1970's raw squat walked out from the stands is far more impressive than a canvas wrapped half squat with 1000lbs and a machine to help start it.