Tag: Hunter Labrada
Hunter Labrada on 2023 Mr. Olympia: “If I Show Up In Shape, I Think I’m In The Top 5”
Bodybuilding star Hunter Labrada has called last season a slingshot year after taking a step back on the sport’s biggest stage. He hopes to redeem himself at the upcoming 2023 Mr. Olympia contest taking place in November. In a recent Olympia TV interview, Labrada discussed his mentality, his best poses, the 2023 Texas Pro, and […]
The post Hunter Labrada on 2023 Mr. Olympia: “If I Show Up In Shape, I Think I’m In The Top 5” appeared first on Fitness Volt.
Nick Walker Gives Top 3 Predictions for 2023 Tampa Pro, Backs Rival Hunter Labrada To Win
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.
You can watch the full video from the HD Muscle YouTube channel below:
RELATED: Hunter Labrada Scores New 585-lb (265.3-kg) Deadlift PR for 4 Reps in Contest Prep for 2023 Tampa Pro
Published: 3 August, 2023 | 8:54 AM EDT
Hunter Labrada Nails The Final Leg Workout Before 2023 Tampa Pro
Bodybuilder Hunter Labrada hit a rough patch in his career when he slipped to the seventh spot at the 2022 Olympia. This was a massive four-spot skid for the 31-year-old poised to beat the champ after breaking into the top five in 2021. However, he is back with vengeance to reclaim his rightful place in the Men’s division and annihilated an intense leg training session nine days out of the 2023 Tampa Pro.
Hunter Labrada is a renowned IFBB Pro bodybuilder and a top Open division competitor. As the son of legendary bodybuilder Lee Labrada, Hunter has inherited the passion for bodybuilding. He shot to fame after dominating the stage at the 2020 Tampa Pro, earning a direct qualification to the 2020 Olympia. After concluding the season with an eighth place finish in 2020 Olympia, Labrada earned his second straight qualification to Olympia by winning the 2021 Chicago Pro. He surged into the top five at the 2021 Olympia, defeating the likes of Nick Walker and William Bonac in the process.
Labrada made quite a few changes to his training and addressed sleep apnea to prepare for the 2022 Olympia. However, the efforts did not yield the expected results and he vowed to come back stronger. Earlier this year, Lee Labrada confirmed that Hunter is intent on winning the 2023 Tampa Pro and the 2023 Texas Pro to ‘get on top of his peak’.
He is primed to make a comeback at the 2023 Tampa Pro that takes place from August 3-5 and went through the last leg day of prep. So let’s check out how the Labrada Scion is getting ready to make a splash.
Final leg day before 2023 Tampa Pro
Hunter Labrada trained with mostly isolation exercises in the training session as his prep is coming to an end. While explaining the goal of this training session, he said:
“Today is definitely more of, like, an isolation day, you know. Extensions, curls, glute bridges, calves, abductors kind of day. There’s really finishing touches putting some blood through the legs. So really excited about today though…”
Labrada was joined by veteran bodybuilder Branch Warren for this training session. One of the most prominent bodybuilders from the 2000s era, Warren came close to winning the Mr. Olympia title in 2009 when he was placed second behind Jay Cutler. However, he elevated to the next level when he won the Arnold Classic title in 2011 and 2012.
The 48-year-old retired from competition after finishing sixth at the 2023 Olympia. While he still maintains an excellent physique, the Texan has no interest in returning to the stage again. Warren flew down to see Labrada’s progress and guide him in the right direction.
“Branch has seen me compete pretty much every single time I’ve competed. So I trust his eye. He’s obviously known for his conditioning and that’s something that I need to bring this time. So hopefully he’ll have something good to say,” Labrada concluded.
With that, Labrada jumped into the workout to put in the last bit of work before the 2023 Tampa Pro as Branch Warren went through a back workout of his own.
Seated Leg Curls
Labrada’s training session kicked off with this isolation movement. Leg curls not only stimulate the hamstrings but also warm up the knees without putting a lot of stress on them. So they make for an excellent starting exercise for a leg training session to avoid knee injuries or discomfort.
After pushing through some solid sets of seated leg curls, the 2020 Tampa Pro winner took a good look at his legs in the mirror and headed over to perform a quad movement next.
Leg Extensions
Labrada next took to the leg extensions to isolate the quadriceps. Although it is an effective quad isolation movement, leg extensions can be harsh on the knees if done with excessively heavy weights. Labrada went through a few sets of the movement and took to a compound exercise next.
Hip Press
This served as the first compound exercise of the day. Hip press targets all the major muscle groups in the lower body like hamstrings, quadriceps, and glutes. Labrada used the Rogers Athletic machine to do this exercise. It has a pendulum design that increases the range of motion and ensures maximum engagement of the target muscles. Hunter Labrada did all the sets of hip presses unilaterally and took to the next exercise.
Hip Thrusts
Hip joint extensions, abduction, and rotation are the primary functions of the glutes. They are crucial in activities like standing up from a seated position, climbing the stairs, walking, running, and generating explosive power for lower body movements. Hip thrusts target gluteus maximus, the largest gluteal muscle.
Hunter Labrada performed the exercise on the hip thrusts machine. He pressed through some intense sets of the exercise before advancing to the final exercise of the day and by default, the final leg exercise before the 2023 Tampa Pro.
Standing Incline Calf Raises
Labrada wrapped up the training session with the inclined version of standing calf raises. The angled position in this variation reduces the pressure on the lower back as the weight is stacked on shoulders. Standing calf raises focus more on the gastrocnemius muscles in the calves. Labrada cranked out a few sets of the exercise and called it a day in the gym.
Overall, the workout included:
Branch Warren gauges Hunter Labrada’s progress
Branch Warren did a back workout of his own and headed over to a separate area of the gym for a discussion. Warren, MJ, and Lee Labrada watched carefully as Hunter transitioned through bodybuilding poses. His massively improved conditioning was on full display. The narrow midsection, striated back and glutes caught the attention when the 2021 Chicago Pro winner hit the rear double bicep pose.
Lee Labrada, MJ, and Branch Warren give their inputs to Hunter. The 31-year-old’s conditioning impressed Warren and he gave him the props for the narrow waist, back striations, triceps, and shoulders.
Nine days out of the 2023 Tampa Pro, Hunter weighed 250 lbs or 4 lbs lighter than he was around the same time before the 2022 Olympia. His father opined that he could have produced better results if the conditioning was at the same level on the 2022 Olympia stage.
Hunter Labrada will head over to show his talent at the 2023 Texas Pro after competing in Tampa. The event takes place on August 18-19 in Arlington, TX. Rising contender Chinedu Andrew Obiekea AKA Andrew Jacked was close behind Labrada at the 2022 Olympia, placing eighth in the Men’s Open division.
He will attempt to win his second Texas Pro trophy. However, an upcoming bodybuilder is confident that he will upset them both. Hunter Labrada has looked phenomenal in recent physique updates. If Labrada can get past Andrew Jacked and emerge victorious at the 2023 Texas Pro, it will be a major shift of momentum in his favor for the 2023 Olympia prep.
You can watch the full workout video below, courtesy of Hunter Labrada’s personal YouTube channel:
Published: 3 August, 2023 | 9:32 AM EDT
Milos Sarcev Compares Physiques of Hunter Labrada & Andrew Jacked Weeks from 2023 Texas Pro
With this year’s Mr. Olympia approaching, athletes are out in full force attempting to qualify for the prestigious show. In a recent Muscular Development interview, Milos Sarcev broke down Hunter Labrada‘s chances against Andrew Jacked, assuming they meet next month as planned at the 2023 Texas Pro.
“Listen, I love Labrada’s physique, I think he’s so complete. He just doesn’t have the wow factor of Andrew Jacked,” Milos Sarcev shared.
Having placed as high as fourth at Mr. Olympia, Hunter Labrada emerged as a Men’s Open threat with symmetry, conditioning, and mass. Instead of staying active last season, Labrada took extra time to work on his physique. However, when he reached the Olympia stage, Labrada struggled against a star-studded lineup.
In the end, he secured seventh place. Labrada was open about his mistakes and mentioned problems arose both during the peak and prep. Months later, he announced his participation in a pair of shows (2023 Tampa Pro and Texas Pro). Looking to correct the issues that held him back from success, Labrada promised to come back better than ever. He revealed changes to his diet and began practicing vacuum poses for abdomen control.
Andrew Jacked’s road to the top of the Open class was sudden as he recorded one of the most successful rookie seasons of all time. He earned his Pro card, and won the 2022 Texas Pro in his IFBB Pro debut, defeating names like Martin Fitzwater and Steve Kuclo. Before the year ended, Andrew won the Arnold Classic UK and finished eighth at his first Mr. Olympia.
As of this year, Andrew Jacked proved himself at the 2023 Arnold Classic. He held his own against the winner Samson Dauda and runner-up Nick Walker during the finals. Even though Jacked looked at his best, he was unable to earn his qualification for Olympia.
“It Could Go Both Ways,” Milos Sarcev Says 2023 Texas Pro Toss Up for Hunter Labrada & Andrew Jacked
Looking at the contest objectively, Milos Sarcev believes Hunter Labrada and Andrew Jacked both have the potential to win in Texas.
“I love Andrew Jacked’s physique. So, you know, Andrew Jacked against Samson, I could see Andrew getting Samson on some points, by all means, it’s not like a cake walk and Samson is dominating. I know he was a little bit drier, more condition and stuff, but just overall package, Samson dominated him,” said Milos Sarcev.
“It could go both ways [between Hunter Labrada and Andrew Jacked],” said Sarcev. “For me, still, Andrew Jacked has this height and width about him – and just so much aesthetic massive beauty. So, if he comes like Houston last year, you know how it is, he was way better conditioned at the Arnold Classic, way better condition, but he turned their heads in Houston.”
Sarcev argued Andrew could benefit from more side leg thickness. Then, mentioned Labrada had no glaring weaknesses.
“If he comes similar size he was in Houston in similar condition like he was at the Olympia, I just don’t see anybody touching him, right? He’s still a little bit light in the legs especially from the side. But other than that, Andrew doesn’t have any weaknesses.”
“We’ve never seen Labrada dried to the bone super conditioned,” said Sarcev. “Hunter is compact. He has no weaknesses.”
Sarcev examined Labrada’s mandatory poses to elaborate on why he doesn’t have weaknesses.
“He needs deeper abs, deeper abs, and much more control to express all the beauty of his shape. When the midsection is not happening that much, okay, then it affects everything. Front double biceps crazy. Lat spread is quite good. Side chest, side triceps, side triceps is phenomenal. Side triceps is very very good. Back double, back lat spread, now, very much improved.
I don’t see the weaknesses. His conditioning before maybe there was not slice and dice, so if you say weakness, but this is just a conditioning issue not the muscles, low lat insertions, x-frame, v-taper, sweeping thighs, calves, I mean he has it all. Abs and thighs was not a super good pose and most muscular, you know, very good pose, not stunning.”
Given his history of success, Sarcev believes with ‘once in a lifetime conditioning,’ Hunter Labrada could win the Mr. Olympia title.
“He beat Nick Walker, right? Nick Walker is considered a potential Mr. Olympia winner and now you’re going to tell me that Labrada just doesn’t train hard enough? He’s so hungry the last couple of years. He’s training his ass off. He has everything that it takes, if he comes in once-in-a-lifetime conditioning, you tell me why he can’t win, because all these guys are so superior? No.”
“So, Hunter Labrada is a potential Mr. Olympia winner. If everything goes well, if he did put the quality size and comes in ripped to the bone dry, conditioned, like I said, he doesn’t have weaknesses. You say that he does, I didn’t notice them but okay. You just think lower lat insertions, it’s not so visible that I would pay attention.”
Labrada and Jacked have kept up on progress photos leading into the show. Both men appear motivated and anticipate a tough battle en route to gold. In addition, Carlos Thomas Jr. has entered the contest as a definite wildcard. This event will serve as his first IFBB Pro show, and judging by his recent guest posings, he has a shot at winning.
Athletes have until October 9 to secure passage to the sport’s most celebrated event of the year, 2023 Mr. Olympia, which is slated to take place November 2-5, in Orlando Florida.
RELATED: Milos Sarcev Gives Top 3 2023 Mr. Olympia Predictions w/Jay Cutler, Talks Samson Dauda’s Progress
You can find the full video from the Muscular Development YouTube channel below:
Published: 2 August, 2023 | 3:18 PM EDT
Carlos Thomas Jr. Says He’ll Beat Andrew Jacked & Hunter Labrada at 2023 Texas Pro for Olympia Entry
American bodybuilder Carlos Thomas Jr. is one of the fastest-growing names in the fitness industry. He’s set to make his pro debut and has gained a ton of attention already. In a recent video uploaded on Olympia TV’s YouTube channel, Thomas Jr. backed himself to join the Mr. Olympia roster by defeating Hunter Labrada and Andrew Jacked at the upcoming 2023 Texas Pro.
Carlos Thomas Jr. first rose to prominence for his insane muscle mass, size, and symmetry after dominating the competition at the 2021 NPC National Championships. He emerged as one of the most promising prospects after his victory in the super heavyweight division and overall. The win earned him his pro card. However, he has been on the sidelines in preparation since.
Although Thomas Jr. intended to participate in the 2023 New York Pro, which concluded with Tonio Burton taking home the top prize two months ago, he was forced to pull out of the contest due to a major issue with his ulcer colitis. He did not let the setback hold him down and plans to finally make his highly anticipated pro debut at the upcoming 2023 Texas Pro.
There has been a surge in budding talent in the Men’s Open division over the last few years. Legacy competitor Hunter Labrada, son of Lee Labrada, established his place in the mix of title contention with a fourth-place finish in only his second Mr. Olympia appearance in 2021. He received a lot of praise for his jacked frame and posing skills going into the 2022 Mr. Olympia.
Along with Labrada, rising sensation Andrew Jacked made waves with his aesthetic package. He turned in one of the best rookie seasons last year, scoring back-to-back gold medals at the 2022 Texas Pro and 2022 Arnold Classic UK.
In the end, Labrada missed the mark on the Olympia stage last December. He dropped out of the top six and settled for seventh place. As for Jacked, he turned in an impressive performance and cracked the top ten in his Mr. Olympia debut, finishing eighth.
Both competitors are on the hunt to secure their entry for the 2023 Mr. Olympia and will face Carlos Thomas Jr. at the nearing Texas Pro.
Carlos Thomas Jr. Confirmes He’ll Do 2023 Texas Pro
In a recent YouTube video, Carlos Thomas Jr. confirmed his plans to compete at the upcoming 2023 Texas Pro.
“Yes, I’m doing the Texas Pro,” said Thomas Jr. “Less than five weeks they’re going to see something that’s going to be brand new and it’s going to shock a lot of people. We’re going to be bringing some enthusiasm to the sport for the rest of the year.”
Thomas Jr. opened up on his reasons for pulling out of the New York Pro due to ulcer colitis.
“Issues we had going into New York with the ulcer colitis, that kind of put a damp on everything. We chose the show kind of far this out because I wanted to take things a little bit slower and make sure that I didn’t incur any flare-ups from the stress of trying to force the body to get ready. We were just kinda going like when it’s ready, it’s ready. So far, it’s been going in a smooth and consistent pace, barely any hiccups. That’s why we chose Texas because it was one of the ones that was farthest out and allowed us to make manipulations and not stress my body out.”
Thomas Jr. opened up about his struggles with heartburn in the past and argued he would’ve won the New York Pro if he competed.
“I used to get a lotta heartburn as a teenager and young adult so in my early 20s. But I’ve been on my gut health regimen for a while now making sure I’m taking my salad and meat, but I’m also doing aloe Vera juice, apple cider vinegar, mushroom root extract, lemon juice, things like that to help with the acidity of my stomach and help break down food. I haven’t been getting any heartburn now for a while.”
“Yeah, I think it’s a show I would have been able to win. I love my boy Tonio, Beef Stu, great guy, but I think bringing in the package that we’ll bring in coming into Texas, it would have been one that I could’ve easily won.”
Flex Wheeler, Bob Cicherillo & Olympia Judge Shower Praises on Thomas Jr. for his immense potential
Bodybuilding legend Flex Wheeler and IFBB Pro League athletes’ representative Bob Cicherillo lauded Carlos Thomas Jr. to be a top-five contender at the 2023 Mr. Olympia.
“Yep, if he nails the condition,” said Wheeler.
“Top 5? Absolutely! He’s going to have a chance to prove it because the front-runner, expected favorite as he should be coming up is Hunter Labrada. Everybody knows that. You’re going to take on a guy who’s been as high as fourth place in the Olympia. If Carlos can bring it and beat Hunter Labrada and knock him out of contention and put yourself in there, you got to be feeling really good about your chances of making that top six at the O.”
Thomas Jr. reacted to receiving praise from four-time Mr. Olympia Jay Cutler.
“It’s still shocking to hear. He told me, ‘hey man, you have the potential to go all the way.; That to me was like blown away. I’m just always blown away even to hear you guys talk about me in this way. I still kind of see myself as a middleweight from back in 2017 so I’m always just humble and gracious.”
Cicherillo believes Carlos Thomas Jr. has everything it takes to become a superstar. Olympia judge Terrick El Guindy and Cicherillo both agreed his side chest post could stand with the best in the game.
“As we talk physiques, and Flex and I have been talking physiques for many many years, we’re always looking at the same first things,” said Cicherillo. “You’re looking at symmetry, proportion, and shape. He checks all those boxes. He ain’t missing nothing. You’re looking for muscularity and conditioning follows up, you got to have everything. Every box has to be checked. But we’re looking for the basics here. Does he have any weak points? Not really. Yes, the back needs to come up, gotta keep that midsection tight, the legs are tremendous. He’s got more quad sweep than anybody we’ve seen come along in a long long time. His back can be eeasily brought up. His thickness from the side can literally hang with anybody right now at the Olympia level. He checks every box to be a superstar. Now the only thing you got to do is actually do it okay.”
“That pose is incredibly. You can put it next to Derek Lunsford and Hadi Choopan and he looks incredible here,” said El Guindy.
Wheeler and Cicherillo debated whether Men’s Open now prefers shorter contenders over taller ones.
Wheeler: “It went back to a short men’s game. It’s not a tall guy’s game right now. Look at number one and number two in Mr. Olympia.”
Cicherillo: “Wait a minute. I’m going to challenge you on that one big time because you’ve got Samson and Jacked who are both big men coming up and I don’t know if it’s a short man’s game.”
El Guindy backed Thomas Jr. as the best amateur competitor of the last decade.
“In my opinion, he’s the best amateur we have seen in the last decade. He has the thickness and he has the front and side poses to go against some of the top Olympians. If his back is improved, we might just be seeing the future of bodybuilding.”
Thomas Jr. Says He’ll Beat Andrew Jacked & Hunter Labrada at 2023 Texas Pro, Will Take the Year Off Otherwise
Carlos Thomas Jr. explained why he’s confident he’ll beat Hunter Labrada at the show.
“Great physique and this dude is former top four. I feel like my side poses, I have the thickness from top to bottom thickness, hamstring, quads, that’s front to back, I’ll have everything that pose but better. From the front, I feel like I have a better taper, better legs. He has tremendous arms but I feel like my arms match up just as well. From the back, he may have more maturity but as far as muscle wise, I’ve picked that up as well. And conditioning, we’re going to be right on the money comparable. From the glutes and hams, I’ll be strong in that standpoint as well. Ab and thigh, I got that one too.”
He made the case for himself to beat Andrew Jacked at the event.
“He’s awesome but honestly, I remember seeing him at the Arnold. I was there in person. He looked great, tremendous. However, I do feel that in certain poses I just fare better. If we’re talking front double, he has a great front double, great taper but I feel like I have one just as well and I’m thicker than him in certain areas; my legs, my arms, I have better lat thickness. I honestly feel like my front lat spread would bode well against his. Mine is just a more complete pose from top to bottom.
“I really fill in a lot of gaps in that pose. You’ll barely see any. Then, same thing from the side, leg thickness, arm thickness, chest thickness, I feel like I bode well in all those shots. The back poses too, top to bottom, hamstrings, glutes, arms, and everything. I just honestly think that all these poses I just edge them out in certain areas such as in muscularity, symmetry, so I would bode well against them because their weaknesses are my strengths and if anything, you can toss them up one shot, the back double maybe.”
If Thomas Jr. doesn’t come out on top, he will likely take to the sidelines for the year.
“Yeah, I would probably shut it down most likely, I would say I’m about 85 percent sure. I’m no stranger to going back and doing the work.”
Fans will be excited to see Carlos Thomas Jr. inject some fresh blood into the Men’s Open class when he faces Andrew Jacked and Hunter Labrada on stage in less than five weeks at the 2023 Texas Pro.
You can watch the full video below.
https://www.youtube.com/live/k6hTimnQTvo
Published: 21 July, 2023 | 7:50 AM EDT
Hunter Labrada & Andrew Jacked Share Ripped Updates Weeks Before 2023 Texas Pro Showdown
The pressure is on Men’s Open Pros Hunter Labrada and Chinedu Andrew ‘Jacked’ Obiekea as they aim to secure their passage to this year’s Olympia competition. In a pair of Instagram posts, Labrada and Jacked teased their physiques weeks before stepping back on stage.
Hunter is the son of bodybuilding veteran and perennial Olympia contender Lee Labrada. Having followed in his father’s footsteps, it didn’t take long for Labrada to find his calling inside the gym and on stage. Fans took notice of Labrada’s potential in 2021 when he won the Chicago Pro title and placed fourth at the annual Olympia.
Labrada was considered a frontrunner heading into 2022 Olympia in light of his impressive showing. Instead of laboring through a busy season, Labrada had the luxury of time, which allowed him to cultivate mass and build extra muscle. However, when it was time to perform on the sport’s biggest stage, Labrada encountered problems with the prep/peak. He finished seventh, though he promised to return better than ever.
Hunter Labrada plans to test himself at two shows: the 2023 Tampa Pro and the Texas Pro. In May, Labrada reiterated his commitment to the sport and underlined that he’s still ‘one of the best’ with plans to ‘prove it’ later this year.
Andrew Jacked meanwhile, jumped into the upper echelon of the division last year with a historic rookie season. With symmetry, proportions, and flexibility like his former mentor Flex Wheeler, Andrew’s stage presentation and aesthetics made him a dangerous opponent for anyone.
In 2022, he secured his IFBB Pro card at the 2022 Arnold Classic Amateur before winning the Texas Pro and Arnold Classic UK consecutively. In his debut on the Olympia stage, Jacked trailed one spot behind Hunter in eighth place. Both men are on the hunt for Olympia invites and are likely to face each other at the upcoming 2023 Texas Pro.
Hunter Labrada Checks In w/ Physique Update: “Best I’ve Ever Been With 16 Days to Go”
Labrada looked huge in his latest physique update under three weeks from performing at the 2023 Tampa Pro.
“Best I’ve ever been with 16 days to go?? One last push and then it’s time to freshen up and do the damn thing! Excited is an understatement??” Hunter Labrada wrote.
“The Goal Is To Beat My Previous Self” Andrew Jacked Teases Physique Weeks from 2023 Texas Pro
Jacked is also looking monstrous in his latest progress video, which you can find below:
“I’m not in Competition with Anybody but Against the Person I See in The Mirror. The Goal is to always beat my previous self!@psychofitness21 @therealtechnicianThe Hoodie is Still On. Few Weeks left to Unveil the upgraded MonaLisa.
Yesszzziirrr !!!” Andrew Jacked shared.
Aside from physique updates, Andrew has shared numerous training sessions in the lead-up to his next competition. The last time fans saw him in action, Jacked showcased a back-density workout that he’s been using to give himself the illusion of a more 3D physique on stage.
Whether it’s nutrition or coaching changes, Andrew is willing to take the necessary steps to evolve as an athlete. Last year, he forged a new partnership with trainers Chris ‘Psycho’ Lewis and Chris Aceto. With another season to build, Jacked is hopeful about his Olympia chances down the road.
As for Hunter Labrada, he’s also taken a calculated approach to his season. In addition to physique updates, Labrada has shared gut health hacks, guest posing appearances, training sessions, and started incorporating vacuum poses to help him exercise more control over his midsection.
RELATED: Hunter Labrada Shares Full Day of Eating, Physique Update & Push Day Workout for 2023 Tampa/Texas Pro
Should Labrada and Jacked succeed in their respective missions, they will have the opportunity to face off against the reigning Mr. Olympia Hadi Choopan, who took the crown from the former two-time champ Mamdouh ‘Big Ramy’ Elssbiay in a shocking upset last year.
Published: 20 July, 2023 | 11:04 AM EDT
Hunter Labrada, Vitaliy ‘Good Vito’ Ugolnikov & Keone Pearson Shine in Recent Guest Posing
The IFBB Pro League has arguably never been more loaded with talent. In a collection of Instagram posts, fans were blown away by recent guest posing appearances from Hunter Labrada, Vitaliy ‘Good Vito’ Ugolnikov, and Keone Pearson.
With the 2023 Mr. Olympia competition approaching, athletes are on a mission to secure their qualifications. They have until the October 9 deadline. One competitor who has yet to earn his invite is Hunter Labrada, son of bodybuilding legend Lee Labrada.
Last year at the Mr. Olympia show, Labrada slipped placings. However, in 2022 he encountered difficulties as he dropped to seventh. In the aftermath, Labrada mentioned that problems arose with his prep and peak.
Moreover, fans and judges alike took notice of his washed-out midsection, which prevented him from placing higher. That hindrance is something Hunter has worked diligently on to fix. In addition to gut health shakes, he regularly practices vacuum poses for abdomen control. He and his father announced that Hunter planned to compete at the 2023 Tampa Pro and Texas Pro on the horizon. With five weeks away, Hunter appears to be close if not, at his all-time best.
Vitaliy ‘Good Vito’ Ugolnikov, meanwhile, traveled a different path en route to becoming an IFBB pro. Last year he switched from the IFBB Elite Pro League to the NPC (just like Michal Krizo). He wasted no time in earning his IFBB Pro card at the 2022 Musclecontest International Brazil Nationals. Vito, who has gone viral several times online for his freaky physique, has ambitious plans this year like Hunter.
Good Vito has kept fans updated on his progress before his next show. Considering his jaw-dropping physique updates, many consider him a frontrunner heading into the 2023 European Pro Championships in nine weeks.
And the 28-year-old Keone Pearson is another big name in the sport ready to dominate. Having found success in the Classic Physique division, fans are excited to see Pearson’s continued transformation in 212. He plans to compete in the 2023 Texas Pro in approximately five weeks. En route to the big day, Pearson has let fans in on his 3,500-calorie diet.
Hunter Labrada Looking Massive in Guest Posing Appearance
Check out Labrada’s recent guest posing appearance at the 2023 NPC South Central USA.
Vitaliy ‘Good Vito’ Ugolnikov Guest Poses, Falls Off Stage, and Reportedly Hospitalized
During Good Vito’s guest posing obligation at the 2023 Musclecontest International Brazil, his freaky muscularity and huge arms/quads were on full display. However, when he attempted to exit the stage by jumping off from the front, he appeared to injure himself.
Keone Pearson Teases Statue-Esque Physique While Guest Posing Before 2023 Olympia
Keone Pearson is five weeks from taking to the stage in Texas. You can find clips from his latest guest posing session at the NPC Twin Cities Open below:
All three of these competitors are after the same thing: a ticket to the upcoming 2023 Mr. Olympia contest – the biggest bodybuilding show of the year. There is no point system now so athletes who intend to enter Mr. Olympia must win a pro event. This year’s 2023 Mr. Olympia will take place in Orlando, Florida inside the Orange County Convention Center.
Having re-introduced deadlifts back into his workout routine, Labrada is optimistic about his chances in Texas, where he’s expected to face the reigning champion, Andrew Jacked. They actually competed against each other at Olympia last year with Hunter getting the upper hand.
Should Good Vito prove successful in getting an Olympia invite, many in the sport already see him as a promising threat. Top Men’s Open competitor Iain Valliere told Fouad Abiad during a recent Bro Chat Podcast that most athletes from North America are afraid to stand against Vito on stage.
Keone Pearson’s balance, muscularity, and symmetry have also gotten the attention of some big names in the sport, such as former Mr. Olympia Samir Bannout. While Bannout thought Pearson had the tools to win the 2022 Olympia show, he ended the contest in sixth.
RELATED: Samson Dauda Shows Off Monstrous 327-Lb Physique Guest Posing at 2023 USA Fit Games
Time will tell if Hunter Labrada, Good Vito, and Keone Pearson earn invites. Regardless, fans are in store for some epic contests in the weeks to come as 2023 Olympia inches closer.
Published: 10 July, 2023 | 3:36 PM EDT
Hunter Labrada Shares Full Day of Eating, Physique Update & Push Day Workout for 2023 Tampa/Texas Pro
American bodybuilder Hunter Labrada is determined to redeem himself after missing the mark at the 2022 Mr. Olympia. He’s currently gearing up to make his comeback at the 2023 Texas Pro and Tampa Pro. In a recent YouTube video from his channel, Labrada showed off his beastly physique, laid out his full day of eating, and shared a push-day workout six and eight weeks out from his return.
Hunter Labrada, son of bodybuilding veteran Lee Labrada, first gained attention for his mass, size, and refined posing skills as a Men’s Open contender in 2020. He dominated the competition at the Tampa Pro to take home the top prize and concluded his season with a strong top-10 finish in his Mr. Olympia debut. Labrada extended his impressive run by scoring gold at the 2021 Chicago Pro and improved his standing to fourth place at the 2021 Mr. Olympia.
Last season, he chose to stay on the sidelines and focus only on the 2022 Mr. Olympia. However, he did not bring his best form on stage and dropped down to seventh place. Since he did not finish in the top five, he would need to earn a qualification for the 2023 Mr. Olympia.
Following the result, Labrada embarked on a mission to turn things around. He identified an issue with controlling his midsection and began incorporating vacuum poses into his regimen. He offered three ways to perform vacuums for the best results like pulling your belly button to the spine earlier this year. Then, he laid out a ‘gut health drink’ he’s utilizing to detoxify.
Labrada detailed some intensity techniques for breaking through any point of stalled progress in the training room two months ago. He also opened up on the difference in his training regimen in the off-season versus while in prep.
The 31-year-old left fans impressed with a shredded physique update where he tipped the scales at 277.6 pounds weeks out from the 2023 Tampa Pro and Texas Pro. He highlighted the importance of choosing the right exercises to avoid injuries and also discussed how to improve workouts for better gains.
Hunter Labrada turned heads in his latest guest-posing appearance at the 2023 Pittsburgh Pro two months ago. He regained confidence after the stellar showing and declared his ambitions to get back into the upper echelon of Men’s
Open competitors. Labrada amped up his training to get ready for the 2023 Tampa Pro. He recorded a new PR of 585 pounds (265.3 kilograms) for four reps on the deadlift in a training session weeks ago.
Hunter Labrada shows off his beastly physique after crushing a push-day workout
In a recent YouTube video, Hunter Labrada showed off his beastly physique after smashing past a heavy push-day workout.
He performed the following exercises targeting the chest, shoulders, triceps, and abs.
Pec Deck Fly Machine
Incline Press Machine
Machine Vertical Chest Press Nautilus
Cybex Plate Loaded Shoulder Press Machine
Lying Cuffed Lateral Raise
Abmat Crunches
Cross Body Dual Cable Triceps Extension
Hanging Leg Raise
Credit: Hunter Labrada (via YouTube)
Labrada lays out the full day of eating 6/8 weeks out from return
Hunter Labrada gave fans a look into the diet he’s following six and eight weeks out from his planned return at the 2023 Texas Pro and Tampa Pro.
Every morning he takes Revive supplements, a greens supplement, one for digestion, and a gut health drink while fasting.
Breakfast:
220g lean beef
180g rice
stir fried garlic and white onions with green onion
Sanchez flavor gang sauce
Meal 2 (Pre-workout):
280g rice
220g chicken
Meal 3 (Post-workout):
250g white fish
150g white rice
Meal 4:
220g chicken
150g rice (last carb meal of the day)
Meal 5:
Avocado
fish
Hunter Labrada appears to be making good progress in the off-season. He boasted his humongous build in an impressive physique update where he weighed 273 pounds eight to 10 weeks out from the contests last month. He followed up with another ripped physique update three weeks ago.
Based on the latest update, it’s evident Labrada is leaving no stone unturned on his road to getting back to Olympia title contention.
RELATED: Hunter Labrada: “I Am One of the Best in The World Left on the Table, I’ll Put that to the Test”
You can watch the full video below.
Published: 6 July, 2023 | 9:20 PM EDT
Nick Walker on 2023 Olympia: ‘Samson Dauda’s Back is Shit, Big Ramy Is Done & Andrew Jacked Won’t Make Top 5’
Nick Walker‘s brutally honest personality was on full display during a recent interview. In an HD Muscle YouTube video, Walker revealed his top five for 2023 Mr. Olympia and examined contenders expected to compete this November.
“Everyone is just getting better, that’s just the reality. The newcomers are getting better and better and the older guys are going out. The young kids are coming up,” said Nick Walker.
The Men’s Open division’s popularity is at an all-time high following the last two major bodybuilding shows. Last year’s Mr. Olympia contest was filled with twists, turns, and unexpected surprises as Hadi Choopan claimed gold in a memorable affair. However, the former two-time champ, Mamdouh ‘Big Ramy’ Elssbiay‘s night did not go as planned. He was sidelined for most of prejudging and was eventually awarded fifth place.
Nick Walker, on the other hand, improved on the Mr. Olympia stage once again in third with 212-turned-Open talent Derek Lunsford securing runner-up. Instead of using the time to rebound, Walker jumped back into the 2023 Arnold Classic on short notice. He faced Samson Dauda and Andrew Jacked in Columbus, Ohio, — two names he already defeated on the Olympia stage.
In the end, Samson Dauda’s shape, symmetry, proportions, and conditioning proved to be a winning combination. And while he bested Walker on that night, ‘The Mutant’ isn’t convinced Samson will contend for gold at this year’s Mr. Olympia. In a Mutant and the Mouth Podcast, Walker said it would either be himself or Lunsford accepting the first-place trophy.
With less than five months until the biggest bodybuilding show on the calendar, preparations are heating up for everyone, including Walker. Before capping off his brief off-season, the 28-year-old picked apart some of the top names he intends to face in the coming months.
Nick Walker’s Top 5 for 2023 Mr. Olympia, Talks Hunter Labrada’s Path to Redemption, Samson Dauda & Big Ramy
Walker believes the 2023 Mr. Olympia top five will feature himself, Hadi Choopan, Derek Lunsford, Samson Dauda, and Hunter Labrada. Similar to Labrada, Walker says Samson’s weakest body part is his back.
“To be honest, I think it will be me, Hadi, Derek, I think Samson will jump into the top five, it’s four right there right? And I’m going to throw one out there, I think Hunter is going to get a spot back,” said Walker. “Well, okay, if we’re going to talk facts, Samson’s got a shit back too. I don’t know. Neither is Samson’s [back 3D]. Samson’s is flat as a board. There’s nothing going on there. From the front Samson is a monster but he turns around, wait what happened?”
In Walker’s opinion, Big Ramy is done. However, he mentioned that he’s still young enough to take time off and return with improvements.
“I think Ramy is done. I think Ramy is done,” said Walker. I do know Ramy, he’s done. Oh my God, he’s the sweetest guy.”
“I don’t think he’s done but he needs the year off to refocus, do some shit, and then come back. He’s still not young young, but he’s still young enough where he can make some changes.”
Nick predicts Labrada will have to win a battle against rookie Justin Shier to earn his spot on the Olympia stage.
“It is [Hunter’s weak spot is his back] but I think Hunter is hungry. [He was] devastated [after last year]. He knows what he needs to do. Do I think it’s going to be a while before his back catches up? Sure. But do I think it looks a lot better already? Yeah. So if he wins, which he probably will… he’s got plenty of time to keep making improvements.”
“I think that will be a battle [at Chicago Pro]. If Hunter can peak right and obviously we all know Matt doesn’t miss – so Justin [Shier] will be peaked. That’s going to be a battle. It’s going to be tough. I think Hunter overall is a little overwhelming than Justin. He’s a little wider and bigger but Justin’s can just hang, if Justin is a little better conditioned and peaked right, I think he can take out Hunter.”
“I’ll use Chris Bumstead as an example, one year he had no back, the following year he had the best back in Classic. That was one year. All it takes is hard work.”
Andrew Jacked Top 5? Walker says NO.
When asked about Andrew Jacked, Walker doesn’t believe he’ll outshine Samson Dauda or place in the top five this November.
“No [Andrew Jacked won’t make top five at 2023 Olympia]. No way [he beats Samson Dauda]. No. No. No. I have Samson, I have him in the top 6-8 spot,” added Walker.
Michal Krizo
As for Michal Krizo, Walker admits he’s big but doesn’t see him doing better than 10th. He added that Hadi didn’t win soundly last year so he doesn’t see him as a dominant titleholder like Phil Heath was.
“No [not a fan of his]. No, he’s big. He’s a big boy. But no. I see him maybe 10th. Maybe,” Walker said. “I think, listen, Hadi is great but just in my opinion, he’s a one-hit-wonder. He wasn’t like a Phil Heath where he won and you’re like, ‘Oh shit.’ I didn’t feel that with him, you know. With the competition now, even if I win, I don’t think it’s guaranteed I win again.”
Walker Casts Doubt on Blessing Awodibu & Regan Grimes This Year
According to Walker, until Awodibu brings up his legs, he will remain in the third call-out at Olympia. In addition, he doubted Regan Grimes’ potential and said he doesn’t think he ‘has the heart’ for bodybuilding.
“Blessing needs to get some legs before he talks shit,” said Walker. “I love Blessing but I think… Blessing just has – he’s afraid to ask for help. It’s like – I tried to help him, I’ve had friends try to give him advice, but Blessing is like ‘I don’t want advice.’ Alright, well that’s why you’re in the third call-out. And he was in the third call-out.”
“Regan, listen, he’s a nice guy. He should stick to the IG stuff. Listen, I just don’t think he has the mindset. Now that I’m around him a lot, I don’t think he has the heart. I don’t think he has the consistency. Bodybuilding is I’d say 100% mindset, yes. If your mind is not in this you will fail. He doesn’t look any different to me. He doesn’t, I’m sorry but he doesn’t. Yeah [it’s a mental thing] of course. I think he wants to but he’s just always distracted by other shit. Unfortunately, if you want to be at the top you unfortunately have to cut everything off. You have to be all in,”
After wrapping up his discussion on the Open class, Walker shared that Phil Heath won’t be coming back. When asked why, he pointed to monetary reasons.
“No, no. They [Masters Olympia] ain’t paying enough for him to come back,” Walker shared.
With contest schedules intensifying, plenty of top names have offered their take on who will become the next Mr. O. William Bonac, a two-time Arnold Classic titleholder, is convinced Choopan will repeat as champion later this year. Yet, former eight-time Olympia winner Ronnie Coleman doesn’t agree. He recently stated that Derek Lunsford will overthrow Choopan to become the next Mr. Olympia.
Samson Dauda has been open about his game plan for his sophomore Olympia appearance. He and his trainer Milos Sarcev agree that his only path to victory against Lunsford and Choopan is by bringing a more complete back. With that in mind, Dauda believes once his back is on par with the rest of his physique, the title will be his.
Given that Nick Walker has yet to slip on the Mr. Olympia stage, it’s hard to imagine he won’t showcase improvements in November. With how close last year’s show was, fans look forward to seeing who becomes the 18th man in history to win a Sandow trophy.
RELATED: Hadi Choopan Looks Ripped in 2023 Off-Season Physique Update Ahead of Title Defense
You can watch the full HD Muscle YouTube video below:
Published: 29 June, 2023 | 11:37 AM EDT
Michal Krizo & Hunter Labrada Share Shredded Updates Before Their Next 2023 Contests
Bodybuilders Michal ‘Krizo’ Krizanek and Hunter Labrada are two of the hottest names in the Men’s Open division. In a pair of Instagram posts, Krizo and Labrada updated fans with shredded physique updates as they aim to earn their 2023 Mr. Olympia qualifications.
After switching from the IFBB Elite Pro League to the NPC, it didn’t take long for Krizo’s name to reach headlines. His spectacular upper body, massive arms, and narrow waist made him an instant threat. Veterans of the sport, such as Jay Cutler and Milos Sarcev took notice of his potential as well.
Krizo participated in a historically busy season last year. He earned his IFBB pro card at the 2022 Amateur Olympia Italy contest. Instead of taking time to map out his next move, he returned to the EVLS Prague Pro, where he again, took first place. This victory secured his invitation to Mr. Olympia, which he took full advantage of with a 12th-place debut.
Labrada on the other hand, is on a path to redemption. He turned in a seventh-place showing at the last Mr. Olympia show. He admits problems with the prep and peak prevented him from a higher finish. Despite the setback, Labrada has taken considerable action to revamp his physique. Most notably, he’s incorporated more whole foods and started practicing vacuum poses for better abdominal control.
Additionally, Labrada showcases many of his training sessions and has brought back deadlifts into his contest prep. Labrada has taken various measures in the kitchen to bring a better physique like the green smoothie he drinks regularly for gut health.
Michal Krizo Shows Off Improved Back in Freaky Physique Update 2 Days from 2023 Empro Classic Pro
Aiming to earn his Olympia invite this weekend, Krizo shared some of his latest progress photos.
Hunter Labrada Under 270 Lbs in Latest Update Before 2023 Tampa Pro
Labrada said he is proud of the progress he’s made to his midsection and is aiming to be ready for his next contest early.
“Had enough people tell me to post it so here we are! This mornings fasted look, and the second morning I’ve been under 270 pounds out of bed??–Really proud of the work I was able to do with my midsection this offseason, and really leaning into everything I can this prep in an effort to be truly ready, early.–This is a big year for me, and I promise the best has yet to come” Labrada shared.
This is far from Labrada’s first update to fans. A little over a week ago, the high-profile Men’s Open pro showed off some of the major gains he’s made since his last competition. Fans were impressed by his improved midsection and Labrada said he plans to only improve further before competing in Florida, and then in Texas, where he will meet the defending champion, 2022 Texas Pro winner Andrew Jacked.
Conversely, fans are also excited to see Krizo back on the Mr. Olympia stage. He managed to perform exceptionally well last year and did so under the stress of a busy season. In 2022, he earned his Olympia qualification and competed at the biggest show of the year just over a month later. Should he claim the victory in Spain this weekend, Krizo will have the luxury of time for training and posing practice, which many believe will only help him excel further on stage.
In preparation for his 2023 debut contest, Krizo has also shared a number of training sessions with his followers. Whether it’s chest and shoulders or a leg day bulking session, Krizo is dedicated and it shows during each and every rep.
RELATED: Michal Krizo Shuts Down Photo-Editing Accusations After Guest Posing: ‘I Don’t Do Any Photoshops’
If Michal Krizo and Hunter Labrada are successful at their next contests, they will have the opportunity to face the reigning Mr. Olympia Hadi Choopan at the 2023 Mr. Olympia show, scheduled for Nov. 2-5 in Orlando, Florida.
Published: 16 June, 2023 | 11:43 AM EDT