IFBB Pro Bodybuilder Shawn Ray Biography
Shawn Ray, born September 9, 1965, in Fullerton, California, is a renowned former professional bodybuilder celebrated for his remarkable consistency and dedication in the sport. Over his illustrious career, Ray made 13 appearances at the prestigious Mr. Olympia competition, securing top-five finishes in 12 of those events—a testament to his exceptional physique and unwavering commitment.
His journey in bodybuilding is marked by significant achievements, including victories at the 1990 and 1991 Arnold Classic, though the 1990 title was later rescinded due to a failed drug test. In recognition of his contributions to bodybuilding, Ray was inducted into the IFBB Hall of Fame in January 2007 and received the Ben Weider Lifetime Achievement Award in 2020.
Beyond the competitive stage, Ray has remained an influential figure in the fitness community. He has served as Editor in Chief of Digital Muscle Media, contributed as a writer for Muscular Development Magazine, and promoted Pro-Am contests. Additionally, he has taken on roles as a global master of ceremonies, Olympia consultant, and global ambassador for MUTANT Supplements. Currently, Ray co-coaches at BuildWithPros.com, sharing his extensive knowledge and experience with aspiring bodybuilders.
For a detailed, chronological overview of Shawn Ray’s career milestones, including year-by-year titles and achievements, please visit his biography page on BuildWithPros.com.
- 1983 California Gold Cup
- 1984 Mr. Teenage Los Angeles (Short & Overall)
- 1984 Teenage Mr. California
- 1985 Teenage Mr. Orange County
- 1985 Teenage National Championships
- 1985 Jr. World Championships
- 1986 Jr. National Championships 2nd Place Light heavy)
- 1987 Mr. California (Lightheavy & Overall)
- 1987 National Championships (Lightheavy & Overall)
- 1990 Pro Ironman Champion
- 1990 Arnold Classic Champion (lost title due to failing drug test)
- 1991 Arnold Classic Champion
- Received Ben Weider Lifetime Achievement Award 2020.
- In October 2003, El Dorado High School in Placentia, Calif. inducted Ray into its “Football Hall of Fame.”
- Inducted into the IFBB Hall of Fame of professional bodybuilding in January 2007
13 Mr. Olympia Appearances
- 1988 Mr. Olympia – 13th Place
- 1990 Mr. Olympia – 3rd Place
- 1991 Mr. Olympia – 5th Place
- 1992 Mr. Olympia – 4th Place
- 1993 Mr. Olympia – 3rd Place
- 1994 Mr. Olympia – 2nd Place
- 1995 Mr. Olympia – 4th Place
- 1996 Mr. Olympia – 2nd Place
- 1997 Mr. Olympia – 3rd Place
- 1998 Mr. Olympia – 5th Place
- 1999 Mr. Olympia – 5th Place
- 2000 Mr. Olympia – 4th Place
- 2001 Mr. Olympia – 4th Place
Presently
- Editor in Chief of Digital Muscle Media.
- Writer for Muscular Development Magazine
- Pro-Am Contest Promoter
- Global Master of Ceremonies
- Olympia Consultant
- Global Ambassador of MUTANT Supplements
- Co-Founder of Buildwithpros.com
