While most people of his age are enjoying retirement, 81-year-old Rafael Vera Diaz is working hard.

The three-time World Champion, Rafael Vera Diaz, is on a mission to change the notion that fitness is a young man's job. At 81, the veteran bodybuilder works out like a champion and flaunts a ripped physique.

On May 23, Vera Diaz posted a video on Instagram of himself doing what he does best: working out. In the video, he was performing exercises like cable rope, hammer curl, and pull-ups. The video was followed by a motivational caption, "If we want to, we can." I want to, and you?"

The Brazilian bodybuilder doesn't flaunt his body for show; he has many accolades under his belt. At the IFBB SEMI PRO WORLD CUP 2025, held in Madrid, Spain, Diaz won a gold medal in the Master's Men Bodybuilding 65 years and above category, proving that age is just a number.

It is not his first time winning; his other bodybuilding accolades include being a three-time world champion and winning gold medals at the 2003 Mr. Olympia USA Masters and the 2013 Arnold Classic Europa.

On May 10, he posted another workout video with impressive energy levels for an 81-year-old and a massive muscular frame. The video came with a caption that was translated from Spanish. “The nature of life is to keep working until the end of days,” reads the translated caption. “I’m continuing my training, what about you?”

Speaking to Healthy Living with Ray about his secret for maintaining a ripped physique at this advanced age, Diaz noted that his healthy diet and disciplined workout have helped him stay fit for so long. He also revealed that he never touched alcohol or smoked cigarettes in his life.

“This sport is what makes me feel like a young guy, and age is nothing but just a number.”

His impressive videos have often caught the eye of many netizens over the years, with many praising him for his physique and dedication.

Fan Reaction to Rafael Vera Diaz’s Workout

His latest video also gathered praise and compliments from people all over the internet.

A fan wrote, "WoW, amazing and admirable."

Another fan wrote, "A salute, master."

One user wrote, "If you give us that persistence, I want it too."

Another user wrote, "You're a machine, Rafael. An example to follow, you're strong."

One more comment said, "Way to go, Rafa!!! You're not just a champion... you're a SUPER CHAMPION!"

Another comment said, "Inspiration to all my friends!"

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Written by

Ruwa Javed

Edited by

Ashvinkumar Patil