Ryan Stills Triumphs with Sixth World Title After Shoulder Surgery

In a remarkable display of resilience and strength, Ryan Stills, a Vegan Strong PlantBuilt athlete, has claimed his sixth world title at the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) World Masters Championships, held on October 18, 2026, in Reno, Nevada. This victory is particularly poignant for Stills, as just two years ago, a shoulder replacement procedure nearly derailed his competitive career.

Stills targeted the Classic Masters 2 men's 120-kilogram class, a category that showcases seasoned athletes who exhibit not only physical strength but also tenacity and determination. In a stunning performance, he earned gold medals in the squat, deadlift, and overall combined total, along with a bronze in the bench press. His efforts helped contribute to the United States' success on the world stage, clinching a gold medal for his team as well.

The journey to this triumphant moment was fraught with challenges. Stills underwent hemiarthroplasty in 2024, a partial shoulder replacement that necessitated intense rehabilitation. Given the demanding nature of powerlifting, which places extraordinary strain on the shoulders, the surgery raised doubts about his ability to return to competitive form. “After consulting with three doctors, I finally found one who was optimistic about my ability to come back as strong as ever,” recalled Stills. He attributed much of his recovery success to his commitment to a vegan diet, which he has adhered to since 2019.

Stills insisted that the nutrition he derived from plant-based sources played a foundational role in rebuilding his strength and fueling his rehabilitation and training regimen. “My vegan diet provided the protein and energy essential for my recovery process. The rigorous training and dedication to my nutrition ultimately paid off on the world stage,” he reflected.

His achievements at the world championship are not just numbers; each successful lift in powerlifting contributes to an athlete's combined total, effectively determining the champion in his weight class. The bronze medal he secured in the bench press was particularly significant for Stills as it marked a personal milestone after his shoulder surgery.

Stills' sixth world title adds another chapter to an already illustrious career characterized by sustained competitive success and the fortitude to overcome physical adversity. His story emphasizes the potential of plant-based diets not merely as a lifestyle choice but as a viable path to achieving peak athletic performance.

The mission of Vegan Strong PlantBuilt extends beyond individual goals; it strives to showcase the capability of athletes to compete at elite levels while maintaining a commitment to plant-based nutrition. They aim to change perceptions about dietary choices in the arena of sports, proving that athletic success and health can go hand in hand with a vegan lifestyle.

In a world often dominated by traditional athletic diets that include animal products, Ryan Stills stands as a testament to the effectiveness of a plant-based approach. His six-time world champion designation not only establishes his position in powerlifting history but also inspires many others to consider the benefits of a plant-based diet in pursuit of their personal and athletic goals. As he continues to set benchmarks in powerlifting, Stills epitomizes the true spirit of perseverance, proving that challenges can be faced and conquered with dedication, preparation, and a commitment to health and wellness.