On April 5th, 2025, the city of São Paulo, Brazil, hosted one of bodybuilding’s most anticipated international contests—the Arnold Classic South America.
With a stacked lineup in the Men’s Open division and no pre-qualified Olympia athletes, the stage was set for someone to make a breakthrough—and Vitalii “Goodvito” Ugolnikov did exactly that.
A Career-Defining Win for Goodvito
Coming into the event, fans and analysts were closely watching Goodvito’s trajectory.
After placing third at the 2024 Arnold Classic South America and finishing second at the 2024 Detroit Pro, the Ukrainian standout was widely regarded as one of the most promising rising stars in the IFBB Pro League.
In São Paulo, he delivered on all expectations and more.
With razor-sharp conditioning, flawless symmetry, and commanding stage presence, Goodvito dominated both the prejudging and finals, leaving no doubt in the judges’ minds.
He walked away with his first-ever professional win—and more importantly, a coveted qualification for the 2025 Mr. Olympia in Las Vegas.
Leandro Peres Makes a Strong Return
Brazilian favorite Leandro Sencini Peres returned to the stage, marking his first competition since placing sixth at the 2023 Italian Olympus Pro.
Despite not winning a pro show since the 2022 Musclecontest FitPira Pro, Peres showed up with an impressive package.
His size, balance, and posing routine earned him a well-deserved second place, reminding fans why he remains a formidable contender in the sport.
Marcelo Cruz Takes Third in a Tough Lineup
Marcelo Pedro Da Cruz showcased notable improvements in muscularity and detail, securing third place in a highly competitive lineup.
His presentation, structure, and flow helped him edge out a strong showing from Andre Carlao, who finished fourth, followed by Catiano Foscarini in fifth.
2025 Arnold Classic South America – Men’s Open Results
1st Place — Vitalii Ugolnikov (Goodvito)
2nd Place — Leandro Sencini Peres
3rd Place — Marcelo Pedro Da Cruz
4th Place — Andre Carlao
5th Place — Catiano Foscarini
Olympia-Bound: Goodvito Sets Sights on Las Vegas
With this commanding victory, Vitalii “Goodvito” Ugolnikov officially punches his ticket to the 2025 Mr. Olympia, scheduled for October 9–12 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
This puts him in elite company, joining past Arnold South America champions like Brandon Curry, Kai Greene, Juan Morel, and 2024’s Rafael Brandão.
As the Olympia qualification window remains open until September 14, 2025, fans can expect more intense competition over the coming months—but for now, all eyes are on Goodvito.
His win in São Paulo not only solidifies his status as a serious Olympia contender but also marks a turning point in his pro career.
Conclusion: A New Era Begins
The 2025 Arnold Classic South America delivered fireworks, and Vitalii Ugolnikov emerged as the brightest star.
With a powerful physique, unshakable focus, and a hunger to climb even higher, Goodvito has officially arrived on the sport’s biggest stage.
And as the road to Mr. Olympia continues, one thing is certain—this year’s battle for bodybuilding supremacy just got a whole lot more exciting.