Five‑Time IPF World Champion Ryan Stills Makes a Triumphant Return After Injury

After a long and uncertain road back to the platform, legendary powerlifter Ryan Stills stormed through the US Nationals, taking the M2 (50–59) Raw and Equipped 120 kg titles and earning Best Male Lifter in the M2 division. And according to him, this is only phase one.

In an unusual addition to the day’s success, Ryan won both titles due to size of his lifts.   “I won the equipped championship and the raw championship at the same time. Which means I competed in just a belt and knee sleeves against guys wearing full equipment – knee wraps, bench shirts and squat/deadlift suits.”

 

A Comeback Few Thought Possible

Stills’ return is remarkable not just for the numbers he posted, but for the obstacles he had to overcome. At one point, two surgeons told him that his bench‑pressing days were likely over—and that he might never lift more than 15 kg overhead again.

He refused to accept that future.

At Nationals, he delivered a performance that silenced every doubt:

• Squat: 312 kg
• Bench Press: 180 kg
• Deadlift: 320.5 kg

“Phase 1 of my comeback to the powerlifting platform was a success,” he said after securing the win.

Powered by Plants

Stills has been vegan since 2019, a decision rooted in ethics rather than performance.

“I don’t want another sentient being to suffer or die for me to exist,” he explains.

The switch didn’t slow him down—in fact, he continued progressing and went on to claim multiple world titles. His diet is built around staples like tofu, seitan, and tempeh, with trail mix and blackberries as go‑to snacks.

Eyes on the Next Challenge

Fresh off his victorious return, Stills is already preparing for the next stage of his comeback.

“Next up: the IPF Masters World Championships on October 18. For the first time in a decade, it will be held in the USA. Game on.”

With momentum behind him and a renewed sense of purpose, Ryan Stills is proving once again why he remains one of the most accomplished and respected powerlifters in the world.