Samuel Ross wins back-to-back state powerlifting titles 

9VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — Samuel Ross added another ring to his collection Saturday, repeating as a state powerlifting champion with a first-place finish in the 220-pound weight class.

The Warren Central High School senior posted a total lift of 1,465 pounds at the state meet. He recorded a 545-pound squat, a 305-pound bench press and a 615-pound deadlift.

Ross improved his total by 15 pounds from his previous meet, where he claimed the North State title with a combined 1,450 pounds in February.

The senior is also coming off a 2025 football season in which he helped lead Warren Central to a state championship as a standout on the defensive line.

Teammates Rod Ford and Chase Johnson also represented Warren Central at the state meet.