During the 2026 Arnold Classic, history was made when, for the first time ever, adaptive athletes stepped onto the prestigious Rogue stage.

According to USA Weightlifting, 9 adaptive athletes hit the Rogue stage. Out of them, one prominent name is Samantha Love. She is an Olympic weightlifter and a combat veteran from Seattle. Samantha competed in the visual impairment category on March 7 at the Arnold Classic. 

The Olympian athlete was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). It is a disease that is resulting in the loss of her sight gradually. Despite facing a significant physical challenge, she decided to start weightlifting 5 years ago.

Speaking to Spectrum News 1, Love said, “Weightlifting has changed my life entirely.” She further explained, “It's kept my multiple sclerosis in remission. It's made me tons of friends. It's gotten me across the world, honestly, and so it just feels really good to go out there and showcase my strength and what we're capable of.”

Beyond competition, Love is strongly advocating for adaptive athletes and also hopes to see adaptive weightlifting included in the Paralympic Games.

Love believes that her story will inspire others to stand for themselves and show the world that they are capable of. She said, “Just because you have a diagnosis or something happens in your life, it doesn’t stop you, and it's never too late.” 

She also motivated those like her who are looking to enter the sport. Love mentioned, “You can do it, and we want you. There’s a program for you, and there’s a place for you in weightlifting.” 

Not only that, the 36-year-old has a very optimistic mindset, and she believes that an individual can be totally unstoppable if they are determined enough.

Not only does the Arnold Sports Festival showcase adaptive athletes, but this year it also brings many unseen moments.

A Bodybuilder With Down Syndrome Had a Proud Moment at the 2026 Arnold Sports Festival

Kyle Landi is a Canadian bodybuilder who is suffering from Down syndrome. However, that didn't stop him from gracing the 2026 Arnold Sports Festival. Landi posted a carousel of photos on March 2 on his Instagram, where he wrote, “Hey guys, I'll be appearing at the Arnold Sports Expo with @wolfpak.official on March 7 from 12-2 PM in Columbus, Ohio.”

He further wrote, “As a trailblazer with Down syndrome, this moment means everything to me. It's not just about me; it's about proving that anyone can achieve their dreams. Come join me at the Expo and let's make history together!”

However, when the Canadian bodybuilder reached the event, he got the prized chance to meet 'The Austrian Oak.' Kyle shared a video on his Instagram on March 7, where he was seen doing poses with Schwarzenegger. The 7x Mr. Olympia also praised him while posing, saying, “I’m proud of you.”

Would you like to watch more of such athletes taking part in the Arnold Classic?

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Written by

Supradeep Dutta

Edited by

Souvik Roy