I'm a 78-year-old bodybuilder and former Mr. Olympia - I'm still going strong and my fans call me a 'beast'
Michael Green
Published Sep 12, 2026
A MOTIVATED bodybuilder did not start until later in life but now he is recognized for his extreme strength and ripped body.
Rafael Vera Diaz, 78, is a Spanish bodybuilder who holds a three-time world championship in bodybuilding and is a former Mr. Olympia from 2003.
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Diaz began his journey at 35 after teaching gymnastics for more than 25 years and wanted to take on a high-fitness sport himself, per a video about him from Healthy Living with Ray.
The bodybuilder explained he is now heavily dedicated to health and fitness and even has a few secrets that have gotten him to where he is today.
He revealed it is all about training and nutrition.
“A healthy lifestyle solves all problems,” Diaz said in the video.
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The bodybuilder insisted that it is important to stay mindful about what you eat.
Diaz also explained that he has never drunk alcohol or smoked before.
Staying focused on his health has led him to be able to still participate in sports and championships to this day.
At age 78, he still is young-spirited and filled with joy to be alive and participate in bodybuilding.
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“This sport is what makes me feel like a young guy, and age is nothing but just a number,” Diaz said in the video.
Diaz explained he has been training for 40 years and does not plan to slow down anytime soon.
He is popular on social media as well with 15.6K followers on Instagram and posts tons of content about his bodybuilding which has gained him the title of "beast" among fans.
In his free time, Diaz works out and coaches bodybuilding.
He considers it his duty to help young people get involved in sports and live a healthy lifestyle, per the video.
Meanwhile, a bodybuilding 73-year-old granny has explained she is in the best shape of her life after taking on bodybuilding.
Another gym girl shared what she eats in a day to keep her body looking ripped and it contains 200 grams of protein.
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