The 2025 Pittsburgh Pro is set to make history by featuring a Men’s Open competition for the first time. This legendary event has long been known as a premier guest-posing showcase, drawing some of the sport’s most elite IFBB Pro competitors.
However, in October 2024, it was announced that the event would now include an official Men’s Open division, creating an unprecedented level of excitement among bodybuilding fans and athletes alike.
The official Men’s Open lineup was released on Wednesday night, and it does not disappoint.
The roster features some of the biggest names in bodybuilding, including seasoned veterans, rising stars, and returning champions.
Many of these competitors have previously graced the Pittsburgh Pro stage as guest posers, but this time, they will be battling for victory.
A Legacy of Excellence: The Pittsburgh Pro Tradition
The Pittsburgh Pro holds a prestigious place in the bodybuilding world, largely due to its association with IFBB Pro and NPC president Jim Manion.
Over the years, this competition has been a staple for elite athletes, with past guest posers including Brandon Curry, Nick Walker, and Hunter Labrada.
With the introduction of the Men’s Open contest, the 2025 edition promises to be one of the most exciting yet.
The Stacked Lineup for 2025 Pittsburgh Pro Men’s Open
The official lineup for the 2025 Pittsburgh Pro Men’s Open is filled with top-tier competitors who will bring an intense level of competition to the stage. The confirmed names are:
- William Bonac
- Martin Fitzwater
- James Hollingshead
- Michal Krizo
- Leandro Peres
- Vitaliy Ugolnikov
- Nick Walker
- Eric Wood
Each of these competitors brings a unique style and physique to the table, ensuring an electrifying showdown in Pittsburgh.
The Highly Anticipated Rematch: Nick Walker vs. Martin Fitzwater
One of the biggest storylines leading into this event is the rematch between Nick Walker and Martin Fitzwater.
The two previously clashed at the 2024 New York Pro, where Walker claimed victory in a controversial decision. Many in the bodybuilding community believed Fitzwater had done enough to win, but the judges awarded the title to Walker.
Since then, Fitzwater has continued to improve, finishing fourth at the 2024 Mr. Olympia before securing a victory at the EVLS Prague Pro.
With both competitors eager to prove themselves, this rematch in Pittsburgh is expected to be one of the most intense battles of the year.
Michal Krizo Returns After Injury
Another major headline for the 2025 Pittsburgh Pro is the return of Michal Krizo. The Slovakian powerhouse had to withdraw from the 2024 season due to a serious shoulder injury, which ultimately required surgery.
Krizo revealed that he had been competing with two torn tendons for over a year, forcing him to take an extended break from training and competition.
After undergoing successful surgery in August 2024, Krizo has spent months recovering and is now ready to make his long-awaited return to the stage in Pittsburgh.
Fans are eager to see if he can reclaim his dominant form and establish himself as a serious contender for future competitions.
Veterans and Rising Stars Add Depth to the Competition
Alongside Walker, Fitzwater, and Krizo, the 2025 Pittsburgh Pro will also feature William Bonac, who will be competing shortly after his appearance at the 2025 Arnold Classic.
James Hollingshead and Vitaliy Ugolnikov add further depth to the division, bringing a combination of massive size, symmetry, and conditioning that will make the battle for the title even more competitive.
Leandro Peres and Eric Wood are also set to make an impact, showcasing their improvements and aiming to make a statement on this high-profile stage.
Event Details: The Ultimate Bodybuilding Showdown
The 2025 Pittsburgh Pro will take place during the Pittsburgh Power & Fitness Festival at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center.
This festival is one of the premier fitness events in the country, and with the addition of the Men’s Open competition, it is set to be a truly historic weekend for bodybuilding.
With a stacked lineup, high-stakes rivalries, and the return of top-tier competitors, the 2025 Pittsburgh Pro Men’s Open is shaping up to be an event that no bodybuilding fan will want to miss.
This groundbreaking debut will set the tone for the season and provide a glimpse into the future of the Men’s Open division.