My shoulders are all genetics—no Synthol!

Vlad Sukhoruchko, the well-known “mass monster” from the Men’s Open category, has decided to set the record straight regarding speculation that has been circulating on social media for some time. He strongly denied allegations of using synthol and claims that his massive, rounded shoulders are the result of nothing but genetics and hard work.

In recent years, Vlad Sukhoruchko has become a very prominent figure in the IFBB Pro League. His extreme muscle mass, vascularity, and monstrous arms and legs have helped him stand out in the highly competitive Men’s Open division. During the 2024 season, he gained valuable experience by earning an excellent second-place finish at the Chicago Pro and subsequently a fourth-place finish at the Tampa Pro against strong competition.

However, following his recent return to the stage at the FLEX Weekend Italy Pro 2026, where he placed 10th, heated debates have once again erupted on social media. Some fans and critics began speculating that he uses local oil injections (so-called “synthol”) to enhance the appearance of his shoulders.

End of Speculation: Where’s the Logic?

Vlad decided to nip these rumors in the bud. In a post on Instagram Stories, he strongly refuted the accusations and emphasized that his broad, full shoulders are simply a gift from nature, not the result of artificial enhancements.

“Throughout my entire career, year after year, I’ve heard the same thing about my shoulders: that it’s synthol or oil. It’s simply my GENETICS. Even when I was competing as a junior, I always had broad, rounded shoulders. And of course, the most dominant muscle groups improve even more with time and training,” he told his followers.

In addition, he offered a very logical argument as to why it would make absolutely no sense for him to use synthol:

“The second thing is, why would I put synthol in my shoulders when they’re already big anyway? The bigger my shoulders are, the smaller my chest and arms look. Where’s the logic in that?” the Ukrainian giant asks rhetorically.

He's not the only one facing criticism

Vlad Sukhoruchko is by no means the first or the last professional to face similar accusations in the Men’s Open category. For example, Tonio Burton recently went through something similar after his victory at the 2026 New York Pro, where fans pointed out a lack of definition in his shoulders. Even the reigning two-time Mr. Olympia champion, Derek Lunsford, is not immune to such discussions and controversies from time to time.

Sukhoruchko, however, isn’t letting it bother him and is fully focused on his main goal—qualifying for Mr. Olympia 2026. He’s currently fine-tuning his form for this weekend’s Mr. Big Evolution Pro show, which is taking place in Estoril, Portugal.

What do you think of Vlad’s physique? Do you believe his shoulders are the result of good genetics alone, or do you share the critics’ doubts? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!