Tag: nEWS
Lineup for Inaugural World’s Strongest Nation Event Revealed
Which nation holds the strongest athletes in the world?
Giants live will be throwing the first ever World’s Strongest Nation competition. Set to take place on November 26 at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool, England, the event will have two teams, Team UK and Team USA compete against each other to find out which is the strongest nation. A list of top strongman competitors from both nations was recently revealed, as well as the team captains.
Team USA will be led by Robert Oberst, a very prominent and popular athlete in the strongman world. Team UK will be led by the equally popular UK strongman Eddie Hall who was the 2017 World’s Strongest Man. Both men have been named captains of their respective teams and hope to lead their sides to victory.
Both teams will feature both men and women in the lineup. This event will be a major one for several reasons. Not only will it feature the current reigning World’s Strongest Man Tom Stoltman, it will also see Eddie Hall come out of retirement after being away for five years.
Team USA
Robert Oberst (Captain)
Evan Singleton
Inez Carrasquillo
Bobby Thompson
Nadia Stowers
Trey Mitchell
Gabi Dixson
Kevin Faires
Rob Kearney
Team UK
Eddie Hall (Captain)
Tom Stoltman
Rebecca Roberts
Luke Stoltman
Donna Moore
Adam Bishop
Andrea Thompson
Gavin Bilton
Mark Felix
The events of the World’s Strongest Nation event have yet to be revealed. Stay tuned to Generation Iron for more details as they become available.
Team USA has a great deal of talented veterans on their squad while Team UK has some of the best young talent in the world. Which nation will prove to be the strongest? We’ll have to wait until November to see for ourselves.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
News and Editorial Writer at Generation Iron, Jonathan Salmon is a writer, martial arts instructor, and geek culture enthusiast. Check out his YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and Sound Cloud for in-depth MMA analysis.
Chris Bumstead Hits “Brutal Leg Day” During Recent Stage Of Olympia Prep
Chris Bumstead hits a quad-pumping leg workout to solidify the entire package.
Chris Bumstead has one of the best overall packages on stage in bodybuilding. His overall motivation and drive in the gym is unmatched. Recently, Bumstead shared a brutal leg workout to pump his quads as Olympia prep continues.
Bumstead is the reigning three-time Classic Physique Olympia champion. He has been at the top of a division that continues to grow and have other competitors breakout. At 27 years old, Bumstead continues to improve and is working toward his fourth consecutive victory come December.
There was a bit of a hiccup in preparation as Bumstead battled COVID-19 at the beginning of the year and was forced to take some time off. He has returned to the gym and continues to build size and strength. Bumstead is back in the gym after five days off and decided to hit a huge quad workout.
Chris Bumstead Leg Day
StairMaster – Warmup
Alternating Single-Leg Extension – 2 sets for 20 or more reps
Hip Adduction Machine – 1 set for 6 reps
Smith Machine Squat – 2 sets for 11-12 reps
Alternating Single-Leg Press machine – 2 sets for 7-10 reps
Seated Calf Raise – 5 sets for 8-10 reps
“I took five days off training or so. I don’t know why but taking time off it should usually leave you feeling rested, but it leaves me feeling tired, tighter and more broken than I was before.”
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Single-Leg Extension
Chris Bumstead begins the workout with a warmup on the StairMaster. This machine gets the blood flowing while activating the quads right away. Following the cardio work, Bumstead jumps right into volume completing 20 reps of single-leg extensions.
“That’s a lot of cardio. First exercise, single leg quad extension. Two sets of 20 reps or more. I hit 23 on the first set, 21 on the second, just trying to get a lot of volume.”
Hip Adduction Machine
Bumstead quickly moves onto the hip adduction machine. According to the video, he is on there for just one set. Bumstead likes to hit this machine before squatting because of the warmup it gives. Bumstead explains how this is a well-kept secret that others should try before attacking the squat rack.
Smith Machine Squats
Chris Bumstead opts for the Smith Machine squats for his next exercise. He hits two sets of 11-12 eps with a closed-stance. This is because it hits harder and gives a deeper burn in the quads.
“Anything over 10 kills me. I was trying to do a front squat closed stance. To really emphasize my quads. Second set was just high volume, closed stance, trying to burn my quads.”
Alternating Single-Leg Press Machine
Bumstead continued the trend of two sets on the leg press machine. He performed 7-10 reps per leg on this machine. Isolation avoids having one leg grow more than the other. This allows Bumstead to work both legs in the same way.
“Very simple, just a straight line movement. I’m doing one leg at a time, partly because I’m too lazy to put that many plates on.”
“I can get a little bit more range of motion to prevent one from being lopsided especially because I have a tight erector on my right side right now, which can cause me to favor my left leg.”
Seated Calf Raise
The final exercise of the workout is seated calf raises. It is important for bodybuilders to not forget about calves and Bumstead focuses on this during each leg day. During this exercise, Bumstead focuses on heavy weight.
“The first two was four plates, really heavy. My goal is to just do some heavy sets. My bro science thinking, if you walk all day on your calves, that’s high volume.”
Chris Bumstead is right on track with where he wants to be heading into July. It will be difficult for anyone to top him at the Olympia after three consecutive victories and another massive summer of prep. It will be interesting to see how he begins to finalize the product as we enter the summer and fall months.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Larry Wheels Wants To Become “Lightest Man” To Deadlift 1,000 Pounds Using Conventional Stance
Larry Wheels will take on the challenge during the 2022 Middle East’s Strongest Man competition.
Larry Wheels has been taking his deadlifts to the next level during recent training sessions. It is clear that he is eyeing a huge number when he takes the stage during the Middle East’s Strongest Man competition in August. Recently, Wheels took on a 72-rep deadlift workout in hopes of becoming the lightest competitor to lift 1,000 pounds.
Wheels was wearing a suit in order to help aid the lifts. He broke it down into nine reps of eight during this particular session. In a YouTube video, Wheels showed off the workout and explained his goals moving forward.
“We are on track for pulling a 1000 pounds at 2022 Middle East’s Strongest Man. On top of that, I am looking to become the lightest man to ever do it with a conventional stance.”
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Larry Wheels’ Back Progression
Larry Wheels is a multi-talented athlete having taken part in powerlifting, bodybuilding, and arm wrestling. He was part of the 2019 Odd Haugen Strength Classic and is looking to compete in another strongman event. This is why he has focused on improving all lifts and it is led by deadlifts.
“If you haven’t noticed, my back is thick as f**k right now. My t-spine area, rhomboids, traps, obliques, everything has gotten substantially thicker.”
It is natural that Wheels has been able to build his back up during these workouts. That will also assist in other lifts during the competition. During this process, Wheels has lost weight and currently weighs 122kg (269lb). This makes his feats of strength even more impressive.
Larry Wheels has been taking his health seriously after a recent string of deaths in strength sports and bodybuilding. He has been getting checked out by doctors to make sure that his heart is healthy. While preparing for this show, Wheels has stopped taking growth hormones and is focused on his meals.
“I’m on just three meals a day. Normal portions, like 800 calories per meal, not force-feeding, and I feel great.”
Larry Wheels crushed a back workout after finishing all 72 reps of deadlifts. He has announced that 1,000 pounds is his goal for the upcoming show in August and he seems on track to getting there at this rate.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Calum von Moger’s Team Provides Update On “Long Process” After Checking Himself Into Rehab Facility
Calum von Moger checked himself into rehab a week ago and his team provided an update on the “long road” ahead.
Calum von Moger has checked himself into a rehab facility to fight against his drug addiction. After one week, von Moger’s team shared a video to his official Instagram page explaining his current situation and outlining his upcoming journey.
On May 6, it was reported that Calum Von Moger jumped through a second story window while under the influence of methamphetamine. He received many injuries, including lacerations from the glass and spinal damage from the fall. He was hospitalized, received spinal surgery, and was in a coma for many days.
During the first week of June, von Moger shared pictures of his wounds from the jump. He is now out of the hospital and has decided to take the necessary steps to get himself back on the right track.
Calum von Moger Currently Has No Timeline in Rehab
Calum von Moger’s manager Popeye shared a video on the bodybuilder’s Instagram account. He began by introducing himself and discussing the current condition of von Moger in this facility.
“How is Calum doing, is Calum okay? Some great news for you guys. Calum is on the road to recovery. It’s been a week now since he checked himself into a facility. I’m very excited about that. It will be a long road. It’s a long process,” Popeye said.
As Calum von Moger continues to battle drug addiction, it is unclear how long he will have to remain in the facility.
“Right now, we don’t know if you guys will hear from him personally. In eight weeks, 12 weeks, six months, a year. the best thing for him is to recover. Is to go through this process.”
The process for Calum von Moger has been long as he earned his Pro Card in 2020 but has not competed in a show. He is a three-time Mr. Universe winner but has not stepped on stage as an IFBB Classic Physique competitor. He has dealt with different injuries and legal troubles over the course of his career.
The entire journey of his recovery and return to competitive bodybuilding was chronicled in the documentary feature film Calum Von Moger: Unbroken.
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Calum von Moger’s Team Wants To Avoid Clickbait And Remain Positive
As the video went on, Popeye explains that he does not feel it is right to be using Calum von Moger’s name for clicks during this time. He needs to be surrounded with positivity and that is not the way to go about it.
“We will continue to be a positive light and regardless of how dark it’s been lately. I’ll tell you, 60 percent of the stuff that’s out there has no base. It’s idiotic. These idiot YouTubers or Instagramers or influencers that think they’re trying to make their name off Cal. It’s heartbreaking to see people act that way, be that way. Try to get some clickbait.”
The video ends with Popeye thanking von Moger’s fans for the messages and faith. There are many that feel inspired by von Moger and the journey that he is currently on.
“He continues to inspire, and he will continue to inspire regardless of what that ends up being. We thank you guys. Again, we’ll have more news for you guys soon. We apologize that it’s taking this long to get a message out to you guys. I’m happy we were able to now.”
Generation Iron wishes a speedy recovery for Calum Von Moger – and will provide more updates as they become available. For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Reigning Natural Olympia Classic Physique Champ Derek Joe Interview: Favorite Chest Exercise and Quest to 4k+ Calories
Image via Instagram @djoe.hype
2021 Classic Physique Natural Olympia champion Derek Joe answers questions regarding his diet and workout plan.
Derek Joe shares his preference for leg exercises, his favorite chest exercise to sculpt a chiseled upper chest, and how he’s aiming to eat past 4k calories/day. Plus, his meal plan in a Generation Iron Interview. Derek Joe is the reigning Classic Physique Natural Olympia champ and a signed multi-media contracted athlete with Generation Iron, INBA PNBA, and Iron Man Magazine. We were able to get some insight into the champ’s favorite exercises and diet after some questions (Q) and answers (A).
Derek Joe Questions (Q) and Answers (A)
Derek Joe gave us an overlook of his training and nutrition regimen. He told us his favorite exercises and shared how a typical meal plan looks for him. Below are some questions GI asked Derek Joe and his responses.
Q: What are your favorite exercises?
A: Barbell Squat: this is the first exercise I ever learned to do in the weight room and is one of the most foundational.
Bulgarian Split Squat: I like to incorporate single-leg movements as much as possible.
Hammer Strength Incline Chest Machine done with cross-body single-arm press: I’m focusing more on my upper chest this season, so I started doing these. They hit that area well and let me concentrate on contracting/isolating the muscle where I need it.
Q: How do your nutrition look in-season and off-season?
A: I’m a little more flexible and intuitive during the off-season while keeping the same framework as being in prep. I eat more fruit, vary my carb and protein choices, and have periodic cheat/refeed meals as I feed.
Things tighten up big time when I start in-season prep and even more so as I get closer to a show. My coach and I keep everything simple, eating the same daily foods. I’m communicating with my coach more frequently, so if my body feels like it needs something, we discuss it together before making any changes.
Q: What meals and nutrition targets do you have?
A: Right now, my coach has me at and will be pushing me past 4,000 calories daily, eating 210g protein, 530g carbs, and 95g fat.
Meal 1
1 Scoop protein shake (Plant-Based)
2 tablespoons of Chia Seeds
CARBS OF CHOICE TO FIT MACRO (e.g., 2 cups of oatmeal)
Meal 2
1 Cup of Quinoa
24 whole almonds
1 cup of green veggie (spinach or green beans preferred)
Meal 3
6 oz. Tofu (Organic baked tofu Sriracha flavor, or comparable brand)
1/2 Cup of Quinoa
1 cup of green veggie (spinach or green beans preferred)
Meal 4
Quest/Protein Bar of choice or 1 can of tuna.
CARBS OF CHOICE TO FIT MACRO (e.g., 2 cups of rice OR 1.5 cups of oatmeal)
Meal 5
8 oz. Salmon
CARBS OF CHOICE TO FIT MACRO (e.g., 2 cups of rice)
1 cup of green veggie (spinach or green beans preferred)
Derek Joe will be looking to defend the Classic Physique Natural Olympia title. Also, 3x Men’s Physique champ William Long is off this year to train for the Classic Physique division.
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for more workout and diet information from the top natural bodybuilders globally!
Hadi Choopan Shares Physique Update During Olympia Prep: Can He Take Home The 2022 Title?
Hadi Choopan continues to look extremely conditioned during his prep.
There are many who believe that Hadi Choopan showed up to the Olympia in October in the best shape. It seems as though Choopan is continuing to dominate his prep after sharing a physique update showing off his crazy conditioning and size.
Choopan took to Instagram to share a physique and posing update on Tuesday. In the video, Choopan is seen hitting some of his favorite poses that help him on stage. On stage last year, Choopan made glaring improvements to his physique, which already had him stamped in the top three or four competitors. Now, he is hitting the offseason hard once again in hopes of bringing home the Sandow Trophy.
“My beauty is the creation of God and the help of millions of people”
Is 2022 The Year For Hadi Choopan?
Hadi Choopan made his debut on the Olympia stage in 2019, where he finished third. He returned to the stage in 2020 and dropped one spot before returning to the top-three in 2021. Despite his finish, there are many that believe Choopan should have been crowned champion in October.
Choopan finished third behind Brandon Curry and two-time reigning champion Big Ramy. There is a clear top-tier of competitors and Choopan is part of that group. Hunter Labrada and Nick Walker are looking to insert their names into the conversation after a fourth- and fifth-place finish respectively.
Hadi Choopan shared a physique update back in March where it is clear that he put on some more size. In this update, he has worked on conditioning and is looking absolutely shredded. The work that Choopan puts in cannot be questioned and this puts him in a good position moving forward.
Choopan is coached by Hany Rambod, who has handled some of the top talents in bodybuilding history. This include seven-time Olympia champ Phil Heath. Rambod led the charge of those who believed that Choopan sported the best physique on stage in last year’s competition. Now, the duo will look to take the next step.
Hadi Choopan has remained extremely consistent over the years and continues to make improvements to a championship-caliber physique. It seems as though each physique update shows a competitor getting closer and closer to being stage ready.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
PNBA Bodybuilder Tommi Thompson: The All-Natural Way To Burn Fat Without Losing Muscle
PNBA bodybuilder Tommi Thompson is prepping for the World Championships In Florence, Italy… and shares some of his contest prep tips before the big night.
This weekend holds the INBA/PNBA Pro/Am World Championships in Florence, Italy. It’s one of the biggest bodybuilding competitions of the year for the league – and a huge opportunity for athletes to qualify for the Natural Olympia. It’s also a great moment for bodybuilders to represent their country during a varied international event. In our latest GI Exclusive, we sat down with Tommi Thompson to discuss his bodybuilding journey, contest prep breakdown, and how he burns fat without losing muscle the all-natural way.
Tommi Thompson is a Men’s Open bodybuilder in the INBA/PNBA natural bodybuilding league. He’s been a rising star in the sport – with the benefit of being trained by former Natural Olympia champion Philip Ricardo Jr. Thompson is looking to make waves this year – and the upcoming World Championships this weekend is his first big opportunity to take it to the next level.
During our interview we go into detail about Tommi Thompson’s bodybuilding origins, how Philip Ricardo Jr. became his coach, and why he chose to go all-natural and compete in the INBA/PNBA league. You can watch his comments on this and more in the video above. But for now – we wanted to focus on his tips and strategies for cutting fat and keeping muscle while remaining an all-natural athlete.
How to naturally burn fat and maintain muscle
Tommi Thompson will be the first person to tell you that the journey of being a pro bodybuilder is to be an eternal student. Every year and every new competitive season, Thompson is adjusting and reformulating how to improve his physique even further. The same is true for his tactics during contest prep and cutting weight. The goal is to lose weight and get shredded without burning away that hard earned muscle.
With the INBA/PNBA being a tested league, there are less supplemental options to help during the cutting phase of bodybuilding. So what is Thompson’s current strategy for burning fat without losing muscle? He currently focuses on consistently maintaining heavy reps.
Typically, trainers would suggest that reps increase and weight decreases during the cutting phase of contest prep. But Tommi Thompson wants to try and keep his weight heavy so that his muscle maintains the massive size he’s built earlier in the season. He does combine this with cardio in order to get that extra edge on hardening up his physique.
What might be most shocking is that Thompson reveals he does 90 minutes of cardio each day. That’s a lot of cardio compared to the standard in bodybuilding. There are even some pros who avoid cardio completely. Thompson is aware of this – and knows that too much cardio can start cannibalizing muscle. That’s why every week he steps back and reevaluates his body and adjusts accordingly.
Sometimes he may pull back on cardio for the week. Or perhaps another week he will lighten the weight and increase reps. Like a sculpter making a statue – he continues to adjust and mold his approach until he puts together the perfect package.
Wrap Up
Tommi Thompson is a promising young bodybuilder with a lot of momentum behind him. He’ll put his latest training and diet tactics to the test this weekend when he competes at the World Championships in Florence, Italy. Only time will tell what kind of impact he will have on the league and the sport.
Until then, you can watch Tommi Thompson go into detail about his contest prep tactics, as well as many other topics, in our latest GI Exclusive interview above.
WATCH: Rob Kearney Takes On CrossFitters Mal O’Brien And Jake Marconi In Deadlift Challenge
Mat Fraser hosted an intense battle of strength between Rob Kearney and some elite CrossFit athletes.
The dynamics of strongman and CrossFit are extremely different and it is always interesting to see athletes go up against each other. In this instance, Rob Kearney took on CrossFitters Mal O’Brien and Jake Marconi.
Kearney has been busy competing in strongman fighting for some of the biggest prizes in the sport. O’Brien is coming off a year where she was named the 2021 CrossFit Rookie of the Year while Marconi continues to be an elite athlete. This contest was shown on Fraser’s YouTube page as the three athletes took on deadlifts for reps.
It is clear that Kearney has the largest deadlift of the group given his stance as a strongman. He deadlifted the day before this contest and completed four reps of 805 pounds. Completing many reps for time is not usually what he does during strongman contests.
“It depends on the contest. We have both a deadlift ladder working up to 880 and we’ll also have a deadlift for reps around 750. So typically, eight reps is the biggest I’ve done,” Kearney explained.
Deadlift Challenge
All athletes were tasked with completing the deadlifts and reloading their bars to the appropriate weight for the next lift.
385 pounds for 2 reps
365 pounds for 4 reps
335 pounds for 6 reps
315 pounds for 8 reps
255 pounds for 10 reps
195 pounds for 15 reps
“Rob deadlifted 805 for four reps yesterday. Rob clearly has astronomically high deadlift numbers so it’s kind of like a fun experiment. Jake has a 515 deadlift. Rob has a, best ever was 970. So close to double but I watched him do 805 for four reps yesterday and like, it was cardio,” fraser said.
“So let’s see how he does with way, way lower percentage for him but it’s something that is completely out of his element.”
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Rob Kearney made the first bars look easy given the weight that was on the bar. Fraser said that these lifts were “about 38 percent” of what Kearney can put up. This was referring to Kearney’s max lift of 970 pounds.
As the contest went on, Mal O’Brien finished the workout ahead of both Kearney and Marconi. Once the workout was over, Kearney admitted to liking this method of deadlifting.
“I actually like doing touch-and-go. Like time under tension wise. I feel like it’s a lot more effective. I always get more fried doing dead-stop reps.”
O’Brien took home the victory in this workout ahead of her scheduled appearance at the 2022 CrossFit Games in Madison, WI from Aug. 3-7. Rob Kearney will continue to train in order to compete against some of the other elite competitors in the world.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Jay Cutler Reflects On Lee Priest At 21 Years Old: ‘I Remember Looking At Him And Saying How Is That Even Possible?’
Jay Cutler believes that no one “could ever blow your mind” like Lee Priest when he burst onto the scene.
Jay Cutler built a resume that has him up there with the best bodybuilders of all-time. He has seen it all in the sport but there is one physique that stood out from the pack. Cutler took some time to discuss how Lee Priest burst onto the scene at 21 years old.
Cutler was one of the true mass monsters during his time and he was able to win the Olympia four times. he displayed great symmetry and conditioning on stage to top plenty of competition. When Cutler gives credit to a young up-and-comer, they must have something special.
That is exactly what Cutler believed that Priest had. He won many competitions, highlighted by a victory at the 2013 NABBA Mr. Universe. Priest enjoyed a successful career that spanned close to three decades.
Jay Cutler On Lee Priest: “Nobody Can Ever Blow Your Mind Mind Lee Priest Looked”
Jay Cutler spoke with Flex Lewis on his Straight Outta The Lair podcast. This is where the two legends broke down some different topics in bodybuilding. When discussing Lee Priest, Cutler brought up the great Ronnie Coleman.
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“Lee Priest was just coming on the scene at that time. I know you guys kind of had this little rivalry because who’s better… dude he was unbelievable. No lie. I’ve seen Ronnie Coleman, I’ve obviously competed with him. Nobody can ever blow your mind like Lee Priest looked when he was 21 years old.”
Cutler remembers seeing Priest walk into the gym and marveled at the pure size that he carried around.
“I walked in the gym and I remember looking at him and saying, ‘how is that even possible?’ He could barely walk his legs were so big. I think he downsized as his career went on but he was massive.”
Lee Priest did not win a Sandow Trophy but he did appear on stage during the biggest show of the year multiple times. Priest remained a competitor because of his eye-popping physique.
Jay Cutler continued to discuss how Priest could look the way he did at 260 pounds. He kept incredible conditioning for the weight that he carried around and was shredded on stage.
“260 pounds but he wasn’t fat. You know he’s shorter, but he was unbelievable. I remember Ed Raven, ‘you gotta see this kid’. I’m thinking gosh this guy is a year older than me, how is this possible.”
Lee Priest was recently inducted into the Muscle Beach Hall of Fame because of his work on stage. He gained a massive following because of his physique and it not surprising that many competitors marveled at what he was able to build.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
2022 INBA PNBA Pro/Am America’s Natural Illinois State Results
Daniel Hetzel wins INBA PNBA Pro/Am America’s Natural Illinois!
The 2022 International Natural Bodybuilding Association (INBA)/Professional Natural Bodybuilding Association (PNBA) Pro/Am America’s Natural Illinois State was held on May 14, 2022.
The PNBA America’s Natural & INBA Illinois State had some great standouts at the competition. PNBA Daniel Hetzel brought great conditioning to the pro stage and was victorious in the PNBA Pro Open Bodybuilding. PNBA Athletes are qualified for the 2022 Natural Olympia in Las Vegas Nov. 10th-12th at the Golden Nugget Las Vegas.
New talented physiques in the amateur categories brought their best that day, including Evan McCrary (Men’s Bodybuilding), Jan-Michael Bailey (Classic Physique), and Jonathon Kind (Men’s Physique)–these amateurs seized first place in their respective open categories. Jonathon Kind earned two PNBA Pro qualifications in Classic Physique and Men’s Physique. He also won first place in novice and open physique.
There was phenomenal posing in Classic Physique, with artistic poses and smooth transitions. And posing is essential, but many overlook that aspect of competing, which can affect placement amongst other athletes in the division.
Evan McCrary brought the muscle to the amateur open bodybuilding category. Perla Bueno won first place in Wellness and took home her PNBA pro qualification! Lisa Forst looked phenomenal and took home big wins.
PNBA Professional Special Guests Appearance
It’s always great to have the INBA PNBA competitor’s support while not competing. Below are the athletes who attended but didn’t compete at the INBA PNBA Pro/Am America’s Natural Illinois State.
The results from the show have been announced. Below is the full breakdown of the 2022 INBA PNBA Pro Am America’s Natural Illinois State.
2022 Pro Am America’s Natural Illinois State: All Division Winners
Pro Men’s Bodybuilding – Open: Daniel Hetzel
Pro Classic Physique – Open: Mark Payne
Pro Classic Physique – Masters (40+): Mark Payne
Men’s Bodybuilding – Open: Evan McCrary
Men’s Physique – Open: Jonathon Kind
Men’s Physique – Novice: Jonathon Kind
Men’s Physique – Jr Masters (35-39): Luis Contreras
Men’s Classic Physique – Open: Jan-Michael Bailey
Men’s Classic Physique – Masters (40-49): Kevin Mekaru
Pro Women’s Figure – Masters (40+): Lisa Forst
Pro Women’s Figure – Open: Lisa Forst
Women’s Figure – Open: Olivia Ybarra
Women’s Wellness: Perla Bueno
Women’s Physique: Olivia Ybarra
Women’s Bikini Divas – Jr Masters (35-39): Ariel Hammond
Women’s Bikini Divas – Masters (40-49): Sandra Carpenter
Women’s Bikini Divas – Novice: Merjen Ten
Women’s Bikini Divas – Open: Merjen Ten
Special Awards
Battle Sword: Evan McCrary, Jan-Michael Bailey, Jonathon Kind, Daniel Hetzel, Mark Payne, Lisa Forst, Olivia Ybarra, Perla Bueno, Merjen Ten
Best Poser Award: Jonathon Kind
Most Muscular Award: Mark Payne
Best Presentation Award: Perla Bueno, Merjen Ten
Division Breakdown
Pro Men’s Bodybuilding – Open
First Place – Daniel Hetzel
Pro Classic Physique – Open
First Place – Daniel Hetzel
Second Place – Mark Payne
Pro Classic Physique – Masters (40+)
First Place – Mark Payne (Battle Sword/PNBA Medal/Most Muscular Award)
Men’s Bodybuilding – Open
First Place – Evan McCrary (Battle Sword/Pro Qualified)
Second Place – James McNeal
Men’s Physique – Open
First Place – Jonathon Kind (Battle Sword/Pro Qualified)
Second Place – Jaime Cardenas
Third Place – Jonathan Ortega
Men’s Physique – Novice
First Place – Jonathon Kind
Second Place – Jonathan Ortega
Third Place – Battur Batbaatar
Men’s Physique – Jr Masters (35-39)
First Place – Luis Contreras
Men’s Classic Physique – Open
First Place – Jan-Michael Bailey (Battle Sword/Pro Qualified)
Second Place – Jonathon Kind (Pro Qualified/Best Poser Award)
Third Place – Quentin Burkhead
Fourth Place – Rolando Jara
Fifth Place – Joel Kerns
Sixth Place – Kevin Mekaru
Men’s Classic Physique – Masters (40-49)
First Place – Kevin Mekaru
Pro Women’s Figure – Masters (40+)
First Place – Lisa Forst (Battle Sword/PNBA Medal/6Pack Bag)
Second Place – Ingrid Isaacs
Pro Women’s Figure – Open
First Place – Lisa Forst (Battle Sword/PNBA Medal)
Women’s Figure – Open
First Place – Olivia Ybarra (Battle Sword/Pro Qualified)
Second Place – O. Roxanne McDowell
Women’s Wellness
First Place – Perla Bueno (Battle Sword/Pro Qualified/Best Presentation Award)
Second Place – Alondra Cardenas
Third Place – Paola Bunay
Women’s Physique – Open
First Place – Olivia Ybarra
Women’s Bikini Divas – Jr Masters (35-39)
First Place – Ariel Hammond
Women’s Bikini Divas – Masters (40-49)
First Place – Sandra Carpenter
Women’s Bikini Divas – Novice
First Place – Merjen Ten
Second Place – Sandra Carpenter
Third Place – Nancy Urizar Khristova
Fourth Place – Ariel Hammond
Women’s Bikini Divas – Open
First Place – Merjen Ten (Battle Sword/Pro Qualified/Best Presentation Award)
Second Place – Sandra Carpenter
Third Place – Nancy Urizar Khristova
Fourth Place – Ariel Hammond
PNBA Professional Special Guests Appearance
It’s always great to have the INBA PNBA competitor’s support while not competing. Below are the athletes who attended but didn’t compete at the INBA PNBA Pro/Am Americas Natural Illinois.
The PNBA INBA will be in Chicago, IL July 23rd for the Pro/Am North America. Presented by Effort Fitness & always supporting 6PackBag. This show is your last chance to qualify for the Pinnacle of Natural Sports, The Natural Olympia in the Midwest. Get registered and Qualify for the 2022 Natural Olympia November 10th-13th. Full competition schedule here.
The INBA PNBA would like to thank 6PackBag for all your support with your epic meal bags! You can see a preview of the 6PackBag’s on INBA PNBA’s Instagram page below.
Generation Iron congratulates all the outstanding contenders who earned a win and awards at the 2022 INBA PNBA Pro Am America’s Natural Illinois State!