Tag: Bodybuilding
2023 Musclecontest Bahia Pro Results
The 2023 Musclecontest International Bahia Pro took place in Salvador Bahia, Brazi this weekend on June 3 and was headlined by the Men’s Physique division. Competitors had the chance to earn their respective invite to the sport’s biggest event of the year, 2023 Mr. Olympia.
This year, the 2023 Mr. Olympia competition will return to Orlando, Florida after a brief hiatus. Competitors from 10 divisions will vie for gold but in order to guarantee a spot on the marquee stage, athletes must win a pro show as the point system has been removed.
Whichever athlete emerges victorious this weekend will have an opportunity to face the reigning Men’s Physique Olympia Erin Banks, who became the first man from his category to win an Arnold Classic and Olympia title in the same season last year. As it stands, fans have underlined Gil Batista, Guilherme Gualberto, and Emmanuel Costa.
2023 Musclecontest International Bahia Pro Results
Men’s Physique
Winner — Vinicius Mateus Veiro Lima
Second Place — Emmanuel Costa
Third Place — Felipe Franco
Fourth Place — Guilherme Gualberto
Fifth Place —Mailson Araujo Santos
Sixth Place — Maiki Massario Ono
Seventh Place — Gil Batista
Eighth Place — Everton W. B. Ribeiro
Ninth Place — Lucas Viudes
Tenth Place — Itemberg Nunes
2023 Musclecontest Bahia Pro Scorecard
Fitness Volt congratulates the winner!
Published: 4 June, 2023 | 12:03 AM EDT
2023 Adela Garcia Classic Pro Results
The 2023 Adela Garcia Classic Pro took over Austin, Texas for the first weekend of June. Competitors from the Fitness category brought their best with the intention of earning their invite to the sport’s most significant event, Mr. Olympia.
In 2023, athletes have fewer months to qualify for the event and the point system was removed, which makes earning passage to the contest even more difficult. The 2023 Olympia competition is scheduled to take place November 2-5 in Orlando, Florida.
Whoever claims gold this weekend in Austin, will have the opportunity to face the reigning two-time Fitness Olympia queen Missy Truscott, who is known for pulling off extravagant and creative individual routines.
Currently, fans expect Aurika Tyrgale to deliver fireworks given her status as a two-time Tampa Pro winner. Her exciting routines and endurance always make for thrilling contests. She will face Savannah Byczek, who enters this show having graced the Olympia stage four times. In addition, Ashley Downes intends to put on a statement performance after taking time away from the stage in 2022.
2023 Adela Garcia Classic Pro Results
Fitness
Winner — Darrian Tissenbaum
Second Place — Amber Steffen
Third Place — Aurika Tyrgale
Fourth Place — Savahannah Byczek
Fifth Place — Ashley Downes
Sixth Place — Amanda Sink
Seventh Place — Marlaina Shrives
Eighth Place — Ellie Ambs
Ninth Place — Leila Hughel-Deeds
2023 Adela Garcia Classic Pro Scorecard
Fitness Volt congratulates the winner!
Published: 3 June, 2023 | 11:49 PM EDT
2023 Musclecontest Nevada State Pro Results
Bikini athletes were on the hunt for gold this weekend at the 2023 Musclecontest Nevada State Pro in Las Vegas, Nevada. This show served as an Olympia qualifier for later this year.
With seven different contests taking place this weekend, there are plenty of opportunities for bodybuilders to earn their respective invites to the biggest show of the year: 2023 Mr. Olympia, which is taking place in Orlando, Florida from November 2-5.
Defending champion Ashley Kaltwasser is back and aiming to defend her title in Nevada after picking up the honor in 2022. Given the competitive nature of the Bikini category, fans are excited to see who comes out on top this weekend. She holds the most wins of any category in the IFBB Pro League and remains one of the most successful Bikini athletes to ever compete.
In addition to Kalwasser, fans expect impressive performances from 2023 Klash Series USA Pro winner Rejiuana Harley. At her last few contests, Harley demonstrated a fine balance of proportions, symmetry, and conditioning, which has fans excited about her chances this weekend.
Savannah Watchman is another name the bodybuilding community has their eye on. She’s the 2023 California Night of Champions Pro winner and will look to find more success in Nevada.
2023 Musclecontest Nevada State Pro Results
Bikini
Winner — Ashley Kaltwasser
Second Place — Jessica Wilson
Third Place — Reijuana Harley
Fourth Place — Tara Grier
Fifth Place — Gina Scafoglio
Sixth Place — Valerya Fedorenko
Seventh Place — Maya Soleil Astabie
Eighth Place — Jocelyn Canevari
Ninth Place — Savannah Watchman
Tenth Place — Laura Stalinkeviciute
2023 Musclecontest Nevada State Pro Scorecard
Fitness Volt congratulates the winner!
Published: 3 June, 2023 | 11:33 PM EDT
2023 Miami Muscle Beach Pro Results and Scorecards
The Sunshine State welcomed bodybuilders from the Men’s Physique, Bikini, and Wellness divisions over the weekend on June 3 at the 2023 Miami Muscle Beach Pro. At this contest, competitors battled on stage for gold, prize money, and an invitation to bodybuilding’s most important event of the year, Mr. Olympia.
Unlike last year, competitors have less time to qualify for the 2023 Mr. Olympia competition taking place Nov. 2-5 in Orlando, Florida. In addition, the point system has been removed therefore the only way to earn passage to the show is by claiming a pro show victory.
Athletes who placed in the top three at the 2022 Olympia from the Men’s Physique, Bikini, and Wellness categories are automatically invited back for this year’s edition of the show. The season is undoubtedly picking up as there are a total of seven IFBB Pro League contests taking place around the world this weekend.
Ahead of this weekend, fans have tagged a few names to watch. Andre Ferguson heads into this weekend as a big favorite given his status as a three-time Arnold Classic champion. He’ll face off against 2023 Palmetto Classic Pro winner Daniel Ammons. Ammons finished fourth at the New York Pro a few weeks ago won by Ryan Terry. Lastly, the second-place NY Pro finisher Vitor Chaves is back at it and eager to assert himself as a frontrunner.
2023 Miami Muscle Beach Pro Winners
Men’s Physique: Andre Ferguson
Bikini: Cristobalina Pajares
Wellness: Tefani Sam Razhi
2023 Miami Muscle Beach Pro Results
Men’s Physique
Winner — Andre Ferguson
Second Place — Vitor Chaves
Third Place — Daniel Ammons
Fourth Place — Ramses Rams
Fifth Place — Deke Walker
Sixth Place — Juan Manuel Gochez
Seventh Place — Maxime Parisi
Eighth Place — Brett Mario Jackson
Ninth Place — Victor Manuel Ramirez Chavez
Tenth Place — Renato Menezes
Bikini
Winner — Cristobalina Pajares
Second Place — Romina Basualdo
Third Place — Sierra Swann
Fourth Place — Marisa Woo
Fifth Place — Janine Herrera
Sixth Place — Alina Bogacheva
Seventh Place — Sandra Roxana Merlo
Eighth Place — Shey Webb
Ninth Place — Lauren Kralovec
Tenth Place — Laura Martinez Manrique
Wellness
Winner — Tefani Sam Razhi
Second Place — Lili Dong
Third Place — Johanna Calcano
Fourth Place — Edna F. De Souza
Fifth Place — Joanna Jean
Sixth Place — Simara Walter
Seventh Place — Tatiany Vaillant
Eighth Place — Vanina Alejandra Pikor
Ninth Place — Yami Patridge
Tenth Place — Anna Banks
2023 Miami Muscle Beach Pro Scorecards
2023 Miami Muscle Beach Pro Men Physique Scorecard
2023 Miami Muscle Beach Pro Bikini Scorecard
2023 Miami Muscle Beach Pro Wellness Scorecard
Fitness Volt congratulates the winner!
Published: 3 June, 2023 | 6:33 PM EDT
Kali Muscle Claims to Eat 1 Meal a Day: ‘Everything We Learned is Fake’
Internet sensation Kali Muscle, real name Chuck Kirkendall, is on a mission to push back against the rampant use of steroids. After suffering a series of health challenges, he revamped his training and diet regimen to live a healthier life. In a recent Escaped Fitness interview, Muscle claimed he only eats one meal a day and argued against consuming too much food and bulking up.
Kali Muscle first rose to prominence for his massive build and brash personality online. Having grown up in challenging circumstances, Kali started working out as a teenager to channel his energy. He also grew up playing several different sports. Eventually, Kali found himself in trouble and got locked up in his college days but didn’t let the setback dictate his life.
Kali continued to train passionately behind bars with whatever equipment was available to him and managed to pack on the pounds before getting released in 2010. He had hopes of pursuing a career in bodybuilding and exploring the world of entertainment. He won the Mr. California contest in 2012 along with numerous appearances in music videos and more, which inspired fans given his respective Cinderella story.
In Jan. 2021, Kali joined forces with fellow social media influencer Big Boy for an intense training session at Gold’s Gym in Venice Beach, considered to be one of the Meccas of bodybuilding. The fitness stars progressed through the workout and crushed a massive set of 330-pound dumbbells made of solid gold. They later found themselves in an argument with the manager and were asked to leave the gym. Things didn’t end there as Kali nearly got into a fight outside the facility.
Kali Muscle / Instagram
Kali Muscle suffered a heart attack after his left artery was said to be 100% clogged in 2021. He was hospitalized but fortunately recovered. He used the experience to change his daily routine and started cleaning up his diet for longevity. A week later, Muscle issued a stark warning to bodybuilders to not ignore the warning signs their bodies might give them. He also blamed the health scare on plaque build-up in the artery from years of eating junk food and taking gear.
The 48-year-old laid out the dangers of bodybuilding in another cautionary message in April 2022. He admitted he used to avoid blood tests and health checkups due to a fear of finding out an issue. Then, he labeled bodybuilding as the unhealthiest sport because Open athletes pursue bigger physiques.
Kali Muscle revealed how he started using gear with an off-season stack he utilized during his days of competing on stage in May 2022. While he’s not sure if steroids were the sole reason for his heart attack, he’s convinced they certainly played a role in exacerbating the condition.
Last August, Kali encouraged people to avoid competing in bodybuilding shows. He argued against bodybuilders appearing to be healthy. Then went as far as to label the competitors ‘test dummies’ that are jeopardizing their health in the sport.
Kali regretted ever getting into competitive bodybuilding after a health checkup last October. He bashed rising Men’s Open sensation Andrew Jacked and former Arnold Classic champ Nick Walker for risking their health to improve their physiques.
Kali Muscle claims to eat 1 meal a day, pushes back against bulking
In a recent YouTube video, Kali Muscle shared his thoughts on consuming too much food and bulking up. He argued against the lessons he learned about nutrition while competing.
“Everything we learned to me is fake,” said Kali. “We used to laugh at people who take supplements in prison. We ate tuna, top ramen, mackerel, and peanut butter, that’s what did it though all those bad carbs.
“It’s big now. Everybody’s starting to wake up. I’m starting to see on social media what we’ve been told we need we don’t like six meals a day, four or three a day. I’ve been on this regimen since I had my heart attack. I’m down to 195 and I love it. Crazy shredded and don’t have to depend on food.”
“We’re just caught up in this culture that bigger is better. No. Let’s go look at some people that’s 80, 90, or 100 years old. They not fat, over muscular or buff.”
Kali claims to eat 1 meal a day
Kali claimed he consumes one meal a day or two at most while avoiding supplements.
“One meal a day, two max. I’m scared of all [supplements]. I’m scared of ingesting anything.”
In Nov. 2022, Kali Muscle opened up about his reasons for retiring from bodybuilding. He believes he could’ve ended up dead if he would’ve taken the steroids recommended to him by top coaches. He stressed the need for competitors to prioritize their health instead of focusing on pleasing judges.
The outspoken fitness influencer reinforced one of his most important messages in the latest offering and will help fans reconsider their goals. In addition, his 1-meal diet plan certainly raises some eyebrows as well.
RELATED: Kali Muscle: Here Is Why I Lost All My Muscle Size
You can watch the full video below.
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Published: 3 June, 2023 | 1:27 PM EDT
Dorian Yates Gives Stem Cell Therapy Update: “Increased Energy & Shoulder Is Definitely Better”
Legendary bodybuilder Dorian Yates led one of the most successful careers of any competitor in the IFBB Pro League’s history. Besides his stellar physique, he was renowned for his exhausting training methods. In a recent post made on Instagram, Yates shared updates after one month of stem cell treatments.
Dorian Yates emerged as the first true bodybuilding superstar from the UK in the early 90s. After dominating the regional circuit, he earned an invite to the Mr. Olympia competition in 1991, where he placed runner-up to eight-time winner Lee Haney in his debut. He secured his first Sandow trophy in 1992 and went on a dominant run that saw him defend the title successfully five times in a row against Flex Wheeler, Lee Priest, and Shawn Ray.
Yates was known for his high-intensity training techniques where he pushed himself to near failure in every training session as opposed to following a set number of reps and sets. He opened up on the mindset he kept during his decorated career in Oct. 2022. Whether it’s diet, training, or recovery, Yates did not compromise on any aspect. However, he conceded he could’ve avoided some injuries if he took things a bit easier.
Earlier this year, Yates got a health check and VO2 max test done in Brazil. He reported positive findings from the test and shared that his biological age came out between 30 and 39. Other than training frequently, he credited incorporating HIIT (high-intensity interval training) for boosting his health.
The 61-year-old left the fans stunned with a shredded physique update four months ago. He boasted his washboard abs while crushing an arms workout on a beach in Brazil. Then, Yates encouraged his fans to train efficiently and focus on optimizing hormone balance for improved quality of life.
Dorian Yates / Instagram
Dorian Yates laid out the proper way to perform lat pulldowns two months ago. He stressed the importance of pulling with your elbows to take the load off your biceps and forearms. He followed up by offering some of his best high-intensity training techniques a week later.
Yates provided a breakdown on performing hamstring curls for building muscle a few weeks ago. He highlighted the need to control the movement throughout with a short squeeze at the top. Then, Yates revealed the diet and training along with the steroid cycles he utilized while in contest prep. He also credited using TRT (testosterone replacement therapy) following his retirement for helping elevate his mental health.
Dorian Yates shares update after 1 month of stem cell treatment
In a recent Instagram post, Dorian Yates shared an update a month after getting on stem cell treatment.
“An update on my treatment,” he wrote. “A month ago I had stem cell treatment with @bioxcellerator in Colombia. I’m definitely feeling the benefits and am looking forward to seeing even more great progress in the coming months.”
Yates reported feeling less inflammation and improvement in his shoulder but is yet to test out the change in his elbow and knee.
“Update on my stem cell treatment,” said Yates. “30 days ago I was at Bioxcellerator in Medellin, Colombia for my stem cell treatment I had in my right shoulder, right elbow, right hip, left knee, and the intravenous stem cells as well which hopefully just goes everywhere where it’s needed. What do I have to report on 30 days? Actually, initially within the first week, I felt less general inflammation I guess.
“Now a month in, having a sense of well being, perhaps, increased energy, and my shoulder is definitely better, my knee and my elbow I don’t really know because I haven’t really tried them out too much. My hip is improved in mobility and less inflammation. It’s not a 100 percent, which I’m hoping for by a later date in three or four months. But definitely improved and I’ll update you again at the three month mark hopefully with good news.”
Dorian Yates gave his take on the optimal time to recover from high-intensity training last month. He argued against training with high intensity for longer than 45 minutes and called on his followers to push themselves in each minute of the workout.
Yates believes squats are not a necessary exercise to include in workout plans for lower body muscle growth. He explained the need to focus on stimulating the muscle groups with resistance, which can be achieved through techniques other than squats.
RELATED: Dorian Yates Reflects on Successful Career: ‘Bodybuilding Was On My Mind 24/7, It Changed My Life’
Based on the latest update, Yates appears to be recovering from the injuries he picked up during his days of competition and it is only a matter of time until his health improves further from the stem cell treatment.
Published: 3 June, 2023 | 12:09 PM EDT
Bob Cicherillo Calls Out Salty Fans Over Contest Results: “Leave Your Feelings at the Door!”
Bob Cicherillo is setting his sights on angry fans who disagree with judges and contest results. In a recent Voice of Bodybuilding podcast, Cicherillo laid out why the judging process is fair and accurate despite fans continually taking issue with scorecards.
Judging in bodybuilding took center stage following last December’s Mr. Olympia competition. The event served as a major shake-up for the Open class as Mamdouh ‘Big Ramy’ Elssbiay lost his title to Iran’s Hadi Choopan. The former two-time champion dropped down to fifth whereas Derek Lunsford and Nick Walker took second and third.
Immediately after the results, fans and some bodybuilding veterans criticized the judging process. Retired pro Zack Khan was among them. He believes Ramy wasn’t given a fair shot on stage in Las Vegas because the 38-year-old was sidelined for most of prejudging.
Months later, competitors gathered in Ohio for the Arnold Classic. Nick Walker entered the contest on short notice as the overwhelming favorite but lost to Samson Dauda. Once again, fans and the bodybuilding community were upset by the results.
While Chris Aceto and Jay Cutler thought Walker could have won, Cicherillo disagrees. He’s taken to multiple podcasts and interviews to explain the judging process. Even though Walker brought the best conditioning of the show, Cicherillo stressed that Dauda presented the best combination of symmetry, balance, shape, proportions, and stage presentation.
Bob Cicherillo Sounds Off On Fans Angry Over Contest Results: ‘The Judges Decide the 1st Call Out’
Cicherillo said his latest video was inspired by fans who called out the 2023 New York Pro scorecards.
“He [Brent Swanson] didn’t end up doing that well in terms of placings, he ended up in ninth place. But this isn’t about where he placed okay, it’s about a post that I saw which inspired me to want to put out on this edition of the Voice of Bodybuilding. In a nutshell, Brent’s got a couple of fans/clients I guess that do personal training from the description. We’ll get to that in a second. They put out a big long lengthy post about after show about how disappointed they were.”
Again, Cicherillo highlighted that a contest is won by a combination of factors, not just conditioning.
“Number two: he was the most shredded guy on stage, you can see it right there. What does that mean? There’s so many components to a bodybuilding show. We’ve been over this folks, over and over and over. The most shredded guy on stage… listen, that’s fantastic. If we were in the Mr. shredded competition, well he might have won the thing.
But there’s size shape, proportion, symmetry, muscularity, presentation, and conditioning, so if that was all he had then obviously, what, you’re [the fans] are 1 for 6? That’s not really helping your cause. That’s strike two,” Bob Cicherillo explained.
According to Bob, only judges can dictate who earned a spot in the first call-out.
“Earned a first call out, we believe he earned a first call out. No, no, you earn a first call out with your physique. You don’t earn a first call out because of these other accolades or because you believe he worked very hard or any of those things. The judges dictate who earns a first call out, I don’t care who you are.
If you’re a former champ, if you’re a former Olympian, I’d say that consideration only goes so far as to what you’re quote entitled to. You’re entitled to step on that stage, alright, in front of a jury of your peers, we call them judges and get compared to the guys next to you. Now, it’s all about comparisons. I don’t care if you won six Olympias, if you’re not at that level at that point if you blew your conditioning and you just weren’t in shape, you don’t earn anything. You earn it by showing up and being in contention with the other guys.”
Cicherillo highlighted that the point of the judging panel is to score shows in an impartial manner. He added that fans shouldn’t bash events because their friends were unable to win.
“You have to take these things out of consideration. When you’re objectively talking about a physique competition because the underlying [problem] here are that he was given a raw deal and that he deserved a top five call out, ‘He should have been in the first call out.’ Our hearts were broken when he wasn’t in that top-five call out and he deserved to be called out. I couldn’t disagree more.
Listen, your hearts might have been broken for your friends personally, listen, I’ve had family around me for 13 years trying to get a pro card. Trust me, their hearts were broken as much as mine. When I would go to another show, another year and come up short of a pro card. They knew how hard I worked. They knew I put 100% in every prep,” said Cicherillo.
“Check your feelings at the door! Stop bashing shows your friends didn’t win.”
The last time fans heard from Cicherillo, he gave his thoughts on the recent 2023 Pittsburgh Pro guest posing spectacle. Big Ramy fulfilled his obligation this year, but Bob thought his physique looked the same or worse than at Mr. Olympia.
Overall, Cicherillo thinks judging should fairly and objectively compare different body types. He admits the system has flaws, but he urges fans not to criticize the shows.
RELATED: Bob Cicherillo Talks Olympia TV Labeling Athletes ‘Failures;’ Terrick El Guindy Apologizes
You can watch the video from the Voice of Bodybuilding YouTube channel below:
Published: 3 June, 2023 | 9:53 AM EDT
Rich Gaspari: ‘Chris Bumstead Needs 40 Lbs to Win Open Mr. Olympia, No One Is Close to Him in Classic’
Bodybuilding veteran Rich Gaspari is back to discuss the career of reigning four-time Classic Physique Olympia Chris Bumstead. In a recent Fitness Fame & Fortune podcast with John Romano, Gaspari critiqued Bumstead’s physique and shared what it would take to win the Open title at Mr. Olympia.
Since Bumstead’s 2019 Olympia takeover, contenders have yet to catch up to his physique. His full muscle bellies, x-frame, and conditioning have made for an overwhelming combination on stage. Before taking his talents to Las Vegas in December, Bumstead and his brother-in-law Iain Valliere decided to stop working together. With 12 weeks until the big show, Bumstead joined forces with bodybuilding coach Hany Rambod.
When the dust settled after 2022 Mr. Olympia many fans were shocked to find out Bumstead thwarted his competition successfully with a torn bicep. He has been open about his career as of late and mentioned that he’s on the hunt for a fifth title.
In addition to his growing popularity on social media, talks of Cbum moving to the Open have percolated for some time. Earlier this year, the 28-year-old said he would consider competing in the Open at the Arnold Classic if the contest was scheduled two weeks after Olympia. The latest to discuss his career was Rich Gaspari, who made a solid case for Bumstead winning Open Mr. Olympia with an added 40 pounds.
Rich Gaspari Assesses Cbum’s Physique, Believes He Needs 40 Lbs to Be a Mr. Olympia
According to Gaspari, competitors of Classic Physique lack muscle density and that ‘crazy look.’ When critiquing Bumstead’s physique, Rich said his arms were a weak point.
“Even in Classic, I don’t want to toot my own horn, you look at my physique when I won the 86 Pro Worlds, the density in that muscle, first of all, it was never seen those striations. Then, you look at guys that are winning now in Classic, they don’t even have that look, that crazy look. They have great symmetry, small waist.
You got Chris Bumstead, a really small waist. The one thing about Chris he doesn’t have huge arms, kind of weak in the arm size but a really good front double biceps. You see how he looks with the vacuum, good legs, but he doesn’t have big arms. That class is very very hard.”
“I saw him at the Pittsburgh Pro, they asked him if he’s considering going to the Open, he goes, ‘Are you crazy? How can I go to the Open? I’m grateful that I came into this sport at a time when Classic was big and I just fit the mold of what a Classic bodybuilder should look like and because of height and because of my weight, I can look a certain size that’s still impressive at my height and weight in the Classic category. And this is why I’m winning that category,’” shared Rich Gaspari.
Given his current build and genetics, Rich Gaspari laid out what it would take for Bumstead to make a play for Open Mr. Olympia gold.
“At least 40 pounds [he’d need to win Open Mr. Olympia]. Yeah, at least 40 pounds. He said it. He was like, ‘I’ll have to be 40 pounds bigger to be competitive with these guys and how do I know I’m going to look right?’ Because, you know, when you gain that muscle it may not necessarily look the way he looks now with the streamlined look that he has. It may not look the same.
He goes, ‘Why would I put my body through that when I’m doing really well in my category? That’s my category, I was fortunate to be born at this time.’ He’s dominating. He’s dominating, I think he’s going to win again, this is his fourth win, he’ll win a fifth Classic Bodybuilding because there’s no one close to him with his small joints, wide clavicle, small waist, big muscle bellies in his legs, the only weakness I see, he doesn’t have these huge arms, these huge peaked arms, but still, they’re good.”
Gaspari says Bumstead has found success in the category because of his bone structure, small waist, and wide clavicles. When comparing the Canadian to Arnold Schwarzenegger, Rich said Bumstead lacked charisma but made up for it with an authentic personality.
“He’s got 17 million followers, it’s an anomaly. Nobody has that type of following. He’s not flamboyant, charismatic, he’s actually, I hate to talk about him bad, he’s kind of boring. He’s authentic, he’s not like this charismatic, he’s not like Arnold, Arnold was very charismatic. Chris Bumstead is not charismatic, I’m not putting anything against him.”
“To really look good in Classic bodybuilding you need small bone structure, small waist, you need a wide clavicle, there’s a lot of factors that makes a good Classic bodybuilder. You can’t take a Jay Cutler and make him a Classic bodybuilder.”
Recently, event announcer Bob Cicherillo shared a similar prediction about Bumstead. However, he specified that Chris could be a threat on the Mr. Olympia stage with an added 20 pounds. If that were the case, Cicherillo argued that Cbum could push Samson Dauda, Nick Walker, or Mamdouh ‘Big Ramy’ Elssbiay.
Gaspari isn’t the only bodybuilding veteran to assess Bumstead’s physique and impact on the sport. Arnold Schwarzenegger has suggested that the Classic Physique champion should be crowned the Mr. Olympia title instead of the Open winner.
It’s evident that there’s a public interest to see Bumstead switch divisions. Though, in the meantime, he’s made it clear that his sole focus is on repeating as the Classic Physique Olympia on November 3.
RELATED: Bodybuilding Veteran Chris Cormier Breaks Down Chris Bumstead’s Chances In the Men’s Open Division
You can watch the full video from the Dragon Slayer Media YouTube channel below:
Published: 2 June, 2023 | 5:53 PM EDT
TikToker Shows Off Severe Back Acne After Using Steroids for 4 Months: “It Feels Pretty Terrible”
TikToker John Joshua James is determined to keep building muscle with steroids despite some unwanted side effects. In a recent TikTok video, James showed off his scarred and inflamed back from acne following four months of continued PED use.
Whether fans or athletes like it, steroids have influenced sports for generations. From the steroid eras in baseball to bodybuilding, athletes are willing to go to great lengths to achieve an edge over their competition.
While these compounds have utility, some believe people take steroid use too far. This topic often surfaces in bodybuilding because athletes are known for using substances to enhance their muscle-bound physiques. However, these measures have consequences. This is something Seth Feroce has tackled head-on. In a series of YouTube videos and Instagram posts last year, Feroce warned whoever would listen about the harmfulness of steroids.
In addition to Feroce, Kali Muscle, a popular fitness influencer and bodybuilder, issued a grave warning about steroid abuse. Simply put, Kali Muscle believes steroids ‘will make you die young.’ Moreover, he expressed concern for athletes in the IFBB Pro League, who are forced to use such drugs to keep up with their contemporaries.
Even though he’s not a bodybuilder, TikToker John Joshua James is eager to add muscle fast. And while he has a very severe case of bacne, it appears he has no desire to taper off or eliminate steroids from his routine. Check out his severe back acne from a few months of using gear below.
“Steroids in Four Months Have Done This To My Back” – TikToker Reveals Harsh Side Effects from Gear
According to James, the back acne feels ‘terrible all the time,’ but mentioned he has no intention of stopping. He shared that his cycle has allowed him to train more frequently.
4th month on the juice? #bodybuilding #steroids #fitness pic.twitter.com/Ecycn5EGIb
— Johnathon J. James (@John_J_James) April 29, 2023
“Steroids in four months have done this to my back and I gotta say, it’s worth it. After doing a bit of research, I found out that steroids actually give you back acne and it’s not great. My back is completely covered in scars and it feels pretty terrible all the time, but I do like being able to go to the gym more. I finally hit 180 pounds, so I’m going to keep doing them.”
#gym #fitness #steroids pic.twitter.com/UD0odD0Gbx
— Johnathon J. James (@John_J_James) May 11, 2023
“Steroids have not only made my back look like a bit of strawberry shortcake but they’ve also made my shoulders way bigger than my arms. The first day I went to the gym is the first day I started doing steroids. It’s not hard to tell. Not because I don’t have any muscle to speak of but because I have all the symptoms,” the TikToker shared.
John Joshua James’ TikTok video immediately went viral after he published it online. He started his fitness journey at 150 pounds and achieved his goal of reaching 180 pounds. Some fans have questioned whether or not he’s telling the truth about his steroid use.
Eventually, James’ video got the attention of Derek of the More Plates More Dates YouTube channel. According to Derek, he’s not convinced the TikToker is using gear, which he said would make him the first ‘fake, fake natty.’
“I think this is an interesting, probably a first time ever if I’m correct, of a guy that is a fake, fake natty. Does that even make sense? He is faking being on gear. That is what I think is going on.”
“I do see this style of video he is doing… the really aggressive. I almost feel like I’m watching a Mr. Beast intro to a video but it’s about a guy doing gear that has never worked out in his life. This is the imrpession I get. This is a viral focused endeavor, and the entire page is centered around this: ‘started juice when I started working out,” Derek of More Plates More Dates said.
John Joshua / Instagram
The last time Derek of MPMD tackled a ‘natty or not’ topic, he took a closer look at popular influencer Andrew Tate’s physique. After fans accused Tate of using TRT or steroids after getting out of jail, the 36-year-old issued a fiery message on Twitter where he stressed that he’s never touched any PEDs. Derek thought the evidence pointed to Andrew Tate having a natural body.
John Joshua James’s story shows that steroid use alone will not result in dramatic muscle gain. Building an ideal physique is a calculated effort that requires hard work, discipline, nutrition, and a holistic training approach.
RELATED: Liver King Looks Crazy Ripped After Being Natty for 120 Days
You can watch Derek’s full video on the More Plates More Dates YouTube channel:
Published: 2 June, 2023 | 3:41 PM EDT
2023 Toronto Pro Supershow Preview & Athletes to Watch
The bodybuilding calendar will see a total of seven events take place this weekend. However, the 2023 Toronto Pro Supershow is the biggest and will feature 10 divisions on June 4: Men’s Open, 212 Bodybuilding, Classic Physique, Men’s Physique, Men’s Wheelchair, Women’s Bodybuilding, Figure, Bikini, Women’s Physique, and Wellness.
Last year, the 2022 Toronto Pro Supershow saw Mohamed Shaaban win gold and an Olympia invitation. While it appears Shaaban is preparing for a competition, his name was excluded from the Men’s Open competitors list. Nevertheless, this weekend’s show is stacked with talent as a few major players are expected to be in the running for gold.
Whoever emerges with the win this weekend will earn an invite to compete at the 2023 Mr. Olympia competition, which is scheduled for Nov. 2-5 in Orlando, Florida. Currently, athletes have until October 9 to guarantee their passage to the biggest show of the year. Find a full athletes list and detailed breakdown of the Men’s Open and 212 Bodybuilding contests below.
2023 Toronto Pro Supershow Offical Athlete Lineups
Men’s Open
Iain Valliere
The Men’s Open division will headline this weekend’s attraction and plenty of names have caught the attention of fans. In 2020, Valliere claimed the prestigious title of New York Pro champion and got 7th in Olympia. He carried that momentum into the next year, securing back-to-back victories at the Texas Pro and Tampa Pro, as well got 7th again at the Mr. Olympia contest.
As the highest-ranking Olympian (11th), Iain Valliere enters this show as the odds-on favorite. He won the Vancouver Pro last year en route to performing on the Olympia stage.
Hassan Mostafa
The field of talent is deep, and Hassan Mostafa, who went undefeated last season, is determined to once again earn his invite to Mr. Olympia.
In 2019, Mostafa made an impressive entrance onto the bodybuilding scene, securing third place at the Indy Pro. With his remarkable size, he showed great potential, but he knew there were areas for improvement. Over the years, he diligently worked on sculpting his physique, achieving a shredded look. In 2021, Mostafa consistently placed in the top three at competitions like the New York Pro, California Pro, and Puerto Rico Pro.
Although he finished 13th at the 2021 Olympia, Mostafa didn’t stop there. In the year 2022, he impresses everyone by winning the Orlando Pro and Puerto Rico Pro. Unfortunately, Hassan Mostafa was unable to participate in the 2022 Olympia due to health reasons.
He offered a very promising physique update just days before taking to the event this weekend, leaving fans even more excited for the showdown.
Ross Flanigan
Meanwhile, momentum is on the side of Ross Flanigan. He performed exceptionally well at last weekend’s 2023 Musclecontest California Pro, where his conditioning led him to victory against ”Beef’ Stu Sutherland, Serigo Oliva Jr., and 2023 NY Pro winner Tonio Burton.
Joe Seeman
Joe Seeman also took part in the 2023 New York Pro, though found himself in fourth. He’s on the hunt for a Mr. Olympia invite this year and hopes to reach his goal by claiming a pro show victory against a stiff Open lineup.
Jangmin Lee
Contender Jangmin Lee plans to make a statement this weekend. While he made one appearance last year in the IFBB Pro League, he capitalized on the opportunity. Lee finished first at the NPC Regional Chan Classic.
Slavoj Bednar
Another threat this weekend was Slavoj Bednar. He’s remained very active in 2023 and has competed at three contests so far: Arnold Classic Brazil (10th), New York Pro (12th), and the California State Pro (5th).
Slavoj Bednar
Ross Flanigan
Eiren Gauley
Mike Hulusi
Hossein Kalateh
Sahar Kazes
Jangmin Lee
Jason Lowe
Morgan MacDonald
Hassan Mostafa
Joe Seeman
Robin Strand
Iain Valliere
212 Bodybuilding
Sung Yeop Jang
Heading into this weekend, there was notable hype behind a pair of contenders. Last year, Sung Yeop Jang competed at just one show but showed immense promise with an aesthetic and shredded physique. Ultimately, he finished fifth at the 2022 New York Pro, won by Noel Adame.
Hwang Shin
As for Shin, he’s making his 212 debut and also participated in a single show last year, which saw him earn fifth at the Monsterzym Pro in the Men’s Open, an event which was won by Mohammad Alnsoor.
Piotr Borecki
Chris Buhr
Ming Chun Hon
Sung Yeop Jang
Hwang Shin
Nate Telow
Jordan Wise
Classic Physique
Edgard John Augustin
Maurice Burgess
Gregory Dawson
Javier Duarte
Ali Emre
Carl Gauthier
Farzad Ghotbi
Shane Makan
Tyler Okowinsky
Samuel Paquin
Josue Isai Cortes Vargas
Dimitri Williams
Men’s Physique
Austin Belanger
Bhuwan Chauhan
Rodrigue Chesnier
Julian Colley
Gary Cooper
Francisco Alberto de la Cruz
Rory Gissing
Harrett Jenkins
Mehdi Kabbadj
Clarence Lau
Daniel Rabiela
Jason Alan Robinson
Mario Stewart
Serge Victor
Men’s Wheelchair
Tim Caldwell
Jack McCann
Jason Metcalf
Bryan Williams
Women’s Bodybuilding
Tananarive Huie
Theresa Ivancik
Melina Perron
Julia Whitesel
Figure
Dalila Alegria
Desiree Alferes
Jodi Boam
Theresa A. Dekker
Manon Dutilly
Amanda Jessica Elliott
Sally Forse
Nelly Gonzalez
Giselie Heathcote
Lauren Martin-Stow
Taylor Mauro
Lola Montez
Nina Paulus
Carmen Garcia Penalver
Nora Prado
Tamika Robinson
Paige Sabedra
Bikini
Eli Fernandez
Brittany Gillespie
Racquel Hutchinson
Nikki Kiani
Adair Libbrecht
Maritza Romano Pacheco
Sophia So Wai Pik
Ayleen Santander
Maxine Somov
Courtney Ustrzycki
Women’s Physique
Josefa Paloma Barba Bedolla
Alyssa Coppolino
Georgina D’Abreo
Leona Lynn Gairy
Cara Kerluck
Amandine Kolly
Wai Chun Virginia Kwok
Emilija Martic
Angela Noury
Renee Reefschlaeger
Diana Schnaidt
Romana Skotzen
Kyna Squarey
Nathalee Thompson
Wellness
Sandra Colorado Acal
Emily Azzarello
Lauren Barton
Anne-Marie Gobeil
Winglam Lee
With 10 Olympia invitations on the line and plenty of prize money, pressure is mounting for athletes to ensure their presence on this year’s Olympia stage. Given the prestige of the Toronto Pro, fans expect the winner of the Men’s Open division to do some damage in November.
RELATED: Iain Valliere Shares Shredding Diet 2 Weeks from 2023 Toronto Pro Supershow
All roads lead to the reigning Mr. Olympia Hadi Choopan, who continues to train tirelessly in preparation for his first title defense later this year.
Published: 2 June, 2023 | 12:22 PM EDT