The anticipation surrounding the 2023 Tampa Pro is reaching its peak as competitors prepare to step on stage in Florida this weekend. In a recent HD Muscle Podcast, Men’s Open star Nick Walker gave his top three predictions and backed Hunter Labrada to come out on top.
Hunter Labrada intends to redeem himself this season after finishing seventh at last year’s 2022 Mr. Olympia, won by Hadi Choopan. Since that night, Hunter and his trainer Ben Chow have admitted to problems with the prep and said they ‘mistimed’ his peak. In the aftermath, Hunter struggled to accept the outcome but underlined that he would prove himself as one of the best later this year.
In preparation for his latest endeavor, Hunter Labrada has taken measures inside and outside the gym to showcase improvements. He believes the significant changes to his diet and nutrition will only bolster his chances of success. In addition, Labrada has utilized green gut health drinks and prioritized abdomen control to ensure his midsection stays tight on stage.
Labrada has publicly stated that his focus is not on the Mr. Olympia competition this year. He announced participation in two contests this season: the Tampa Pro and Texas Pro. With the show approaching this weekend, bodybuilding star Nick Walker revealed who he thinks will stand on the Tampa Pro podium when it’s over.
Nick Walker’s 2023 Tampa Pro Predictions
- Winner – Hunter Labrada
- Second Place – Jonathan DeLaRosa
- Third Place – Nathan Spear
Walker Predicts Hunter Labrada to Win 2023 Tampa Pro, Gives Top 3 Finishers
According to Walker, competitors are reluctant to compete as there are only six athletes signed up for the Tampa Pro this weekend. He also credited Hunter Labrada for improving his conditioning.
“Nobody wants to compete, there’s six people. Blessing’s not doing it,” said Walker.
“Hunter looks the best he’s ever looked,” Quinton Eriya shared.
“He definitely finally brought the conditioning, replied Walker. “You see people commenting, ‘Oh is Hunter too flat?’ He’s supposed to be man. He’s going to have a good amount of time to eat up, calm down.”
“He looks amazing I’m very excited,” said Justin Shier.
“I’m really excited to see Carlos [Thomas Jr.] in Texas,” Walker said.
Fans are excited to see Labrada take to the stage this year. He intends to turn around next month at the 2023 Texas Pro as well. There has been a lot of talk about the Texas Pro this year as Andrew Jacked looks to defend the title he earned in 2022.
Aside from Jacked, mass monster Carlos Thomas Jr. announced his respective entry. While he’s yet to perform at a Pro show, many believe if he wins this event, he’ll catapult his career to new heights. Thomas Jr. continues to gain hype in the league as he recently guest posed at the Victor Martinez Legends Championships and stole the show.
Should Hunter Labrada secure the victory in Florida, he’ll earn an invite to the Mr. Olympia competition, where he’ll have the opportunity to test himself against the reigning champion Hadi Choopan. As for Nick Walker, he’s already qualified for Olympia this year and intends to win his first Sandow in November.