The 2025 Pittsburgh Pro is set to electrify the bodybuilding scene this weekend, taking place on May 10-11 in Pittsburgh, PA. Organized by IFBB Pro League president Jim Manion, this prestigious event features qualification shows for the 2025 Olympia Weekend across seven different categories. The excitement kicks off with the Men’s events on Saturday, May 10, followed by the Women’s competitions on Sunday, May 11.
The Pittsburgh Pro is not just another bodybuilding contest; it serves as a vital stepping stone for athletes aiming for a spot at the highly coveted Mr. Olympia, scheduled for November 2025 in Las Vegas. Winning here secures a direct qualification for the Olympia, which is a dream for many competitors.
The rosters for the various divisions are packed with talent, showcasing athletes from around the globe. In the Men’s Open category, notable competitors include Joe Ballinger from the UK, Pavel Beran from the Czech Republic, and Derek Lunsford from the USA, who is the reigning Mr. Olympia and 2025 Arnold Classic champion. Lunsford views the Pittsburgh Pro as a potential triple crown victory if he can take home the title this weekend.
Joining Lunsford are other formidable competitors like Nick Walker, making his 2025 season debut after a hiatus since the 2024 New York Pro. Walker, a two-time New York Pro champion and the 2021 Arnold Classic winner, is eager to secure his place at the Olympia stage after missing out in the previous two years. Meanwhile, Martin Fitzwater, who recently won the 2024 Prague Pro, is also a strong contender, having finished just behind Lunsford at last year’s Olympia.
In the Classic Physique division, all eyes will be on the emerging Brazilian talent, Caike Pro, who is set to make his debut at the Pittsburgh Pro. Competing in the same category as established names like Ramon Dino, who was the vice-champion at the Mr. Olympia 2023 and third in 2024, Caike aims to make a significant impact. The Classic Physique category emphasizes aesthetic proportions, muscle definition, and volume, and Caike is ready to showcase his skills to the international judges.
At just 29 years old, Caike Pro has gained recognition in national competitions and now steps onto the international stage in what many see as a pivotal moment for his career. The Pittsburgh Pro not only offers him a chance to compete but also to gain valuable points in the IFBB ranking system.
Fans who cannot attend the event in person can catch all the action through a live stream, available on the promoter’s website and the Max Titanium YouTube channel. The preliminaries for Classic Physique are set for the morning of May 11, with the finals scheduled for later that afternoon.
The Pittsburgh Pro has long been regarded as a showcase for the sport, attracting top competitors and offering substantial cash prizes, along with significant visibility for the athletes involved. The event started its official programming on May 9, 2025, with prejudging sessions, setting the stage for an exciting competitive weekend.
As the competition unfolds, the atmosphere in Pittsburgh is charged with anticipation. Athletes are not just vying for victory; they are competing for recognition and a chance to solidify their standings in the world of bodybuilding. The stakes are high, and the competition fierce.
With so many talented athletes on the roster, it’s anyone’s guess who will emerge victorious. Will Derek Lunsford continue his reign, or will a newcomer like Caike Pro steal the show? As the bodybuilding community watches closely, the 2025 Pittsburgh Pro promises to deliver unforgettable moments and possibly reshape the landscape of professional bodybuilding.
In summary, the Pittsburgh Pro is more than just a contest; it’s a celebration of strength, dedication, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in bodybuilding. As competitors take their places on stage, fans can look forward to an exhilarating display of athleticism and artistry in the coming days.
