Big Ramy confirms he will be back… But will his injuries force him to retire?
There was a lot of hype about Big Ramy going into the 2022 Mr. Olympia. The only way Big Ramy would be defeated is if he’s off, and that is exactly what happened.
When the athletes started to make their way to the stage for prejudging, it was evident that Big Ramy was not in the condition everybody expected him to be in.
Ramy was not moved to the center, with the battle being between Hadi Choopan and Derek Lunsford.
A number of bodybuilding media outlets, claimed that Big Ramy was put to the side because he was the sure winner. Many believed that the battle between Hadi and Derek was for second and third, this was far from the truth.
As photos started to make their rounds on social media, it was evident that Big Ramy was not at his best. Muscle Atrophy was apparent in Big Ramy’s back and triceps.
in 2017, Big Ramy placed second to Phil Heath. His back and triceps were showing no signs of injury. Fast forward to 2022, it is evident that Big Ramy is suffering from Muscle Atrophy in his back and triceps, when performing the back double biceps pose.
When performing the front lat spread, his legs were much more defined in 2017 compared to 2022, plus he had a healthier looking physique in general.
Will Big Ramy’s injuries force him to retire?
Big Ramy lost his title to Hadi Choopan, after placing a disappointing fifth. After the event ended, Ramy used his social media to issue a statement, and promise his fans that he will be back in 2023.
“From the beginning I have to say congratulations to Hadi. He deserves it. He is the Mr. Olympia right now. He tried for many years to be in this place and I respect that. I am thankful for all the competitors who fought for one reason, to be a good representative of bodybuilding. Second, I need to thank all the judges and all the people that supported my game.”
“It’s my game. I love this game from the beginning and I always tried to bring my best because it is my hobby. I loved everyone and loved my game and I need to say I have been broken many times in my life and this is not the first time. But I always came back stronger than ever.”
“I promise you guys I will do my best to get back again stronger than ever. I don’t promise to win or to lose, I respect other people. But I will say I will do my best like I have done my whole life to be number 1 again.”
“I can say it to all the competitors in the middle east, we can come back from this. I really appreciate all the people’s support around the world.”
Big Ramy is a warrior, and has made his way back to the top after numerous defeats and obstacles, but this time it’s different.
Big Ramy is not battling Phil Heath or Brandon Curry, but rather his own body. At 38, he is not the youngest athlete, and if he is suffering any injuries, this might ruin his chances of competing at the highest level.
Big Ramy might win any other show, even with his injuries, but competing at the highest level, in this case the Mr. Olympia, will be very difficult.
Big Ramy must now sit down with Dennis James and Chad Nicholls, to discuss his future. It’s no use putting his body through hell, just to finish in fifth place or worse.
We have seen this happen to numerous bodybuilders, not facing reality and forcing themselves to push ahead. This can only lead to more serious injuries.
Big Ramy won the majority of major shows, plus two Mr. Olympia titles, he’s number 16. He has accomplished what the majority of bodybuilders only dream of doing.
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