The 2024 Empro Classic Pro, one of Europe’s premier bodybuilding events, is set to return to Alicante, Spain on June 15-16.
This year’s competition promises to be an electrifying showcase of muscle, symmetry, and sheer determination, particularly in the Men’s Open division.
As competitors vie for their chance to qualify for the 2024 Mr. Olympia, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
This comprehensive preview will delve into the top contenders in the Men’s Open division, explore the dynamics of the competition, and provide full roster lists for the other seven divisions featured at this highly anticipated event.
The Importance of the Empro Classic Pro
A Crucial Qualifier
The Empro Classic Pro serves as a pivotal qualifier for the Mr. Olympia competition, making it a critical event on the bodybuilding calendar.
With limited opportunities to secure a spot at the prestigious Olympia, the athletes competing in Alicante will be under immense pressure to perform at their best.
The significance of this event extends beyond the immediate competition, as a strong showing can set the stage for future success and recognition in the sport.
Prestige and Recognition
Winning or placing well at the Empro Classic Pro can catapult a bodybuilder’s career.
The event attracts top talent from around the globe and performing well here garners respect and recognition from fans and peers.
This competition is a proving ground for seasoned veterans and rising stars alike, each seeking to leave their mark on the bodybuilding world.
2024 Empro Classic Pro Bodybuilding Preview and Contenders to Watch
Men’s Open Division
The Men’s Open division is the highlight of the Empro Classic Pro, drawing significant attention due to the high caliber of competitors.
This year, several top contenders are expected to deliver standout performances.
Michal Krizo
Heading into this contest, Michal Krizo stands out as the favorite. Not only will he step on stage as the defending champion, but he also placed the highest at the latest Mr. Olympia contest, securing a commendable seventh place.
Michal Krizo’s impressive physique, characterized by his massive size and muscle density, makes him a formidable competitor.
However, his lack of back detail and conditioning levels have been areas of concern.
Over the off-season, Michal Krizo has worked diligently to address these weaknesses, sharing glimpses of his improved diet and training regimen.
If his efforts pay off, he could dominate the stage once again and secure his place in the upcoming Mr. Olympia.
Behrooz Tabani
Behrooz Tabani is perhaps the biggest mystery of this show. Despite qualifying for the 2023 Olympia, visa issues prevented him from competing, leaving fans eager to see him back on stage.
Trained by renowned coach Milos Sarcev, Behrooz Tabani is known for his shredded conditioning and aesthetic physique.
While his recent competition history is limited, the anticipation surrounding his performance is high.
If Behrooz Tabani can bring enough mass to complement his definition, he could pose a serious threat to the reigning champion, Michal Krizo.
William Bonac
William Bonac, a two-time Arnold Classic champion, is another top contender to watch. Bonac nearly clinched the Mr. Olympia title in 2019, finishing second to Brandon Curry.
His compact, dense muscle and exceptional side pose make him a unique threat on stage. William Bonac’s last competition was the 2023 Arnold Classic, where he placed seventh.
Since then, he has had ample time to refine his physique, focusing on perfecting his V-taper and tightening his waist.
Fans and critics alike are eager to see what William Bonac will bring to the stage, expecting a massive showing from this seasoned champion.
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Full Men’s Open Lineup
- Kuba Cielen
- Stanimir Etov
- Sasan Heirati
- Anthony Jehl
- Pawel Kowalski
- Pablo Llopis Munoz
- Morteza Mashayekhkordkola
- Reece McDonald
- Justin Musiol
- Pascal Schlegel
- Dan Thomas
- Samir Troudi
This lineup showcases a diverse array of talent, each competitor bringing unique strengths and capabilities to the stage.
The competition will be fierce, with each athlete striving to outperform the others and secure their qualification for Mr. Olympia.
Breakdown of Other Divisions
While the Men’s Open division garners significant attention, the Empro Classic Pro also features seven other competitive divisions, each with its own set of standout athletes.
Classic Physique
The Classic Physique division highlights aesthetics, symmetry, and proportion over sheer mass. This year’s lineup includes:
- Yemi Adefioye
- Geoffroy Bloa
- Carlo Junior Campana
- Shane Cullen
- Eduardo Duarte
- Valeri Frizler
- Andre Gerstner
- Florian Hartlage
- Edgard John-Augustin
- Mohammad Mahmoudi
- Nestor Martinez Carbonell
- Ferran Minana
- Jonathan Moreno
- Jose Manuel Munoz Quiles
- Jose Luis Parreno Martorell
- German Pastor
- Zhivko Petkov
- Luca Reger
- Javi Senas
- Terrance Teo Kuk Hua
- Edwin Underwood
- Ladislav Vozar
- Dominik Woywat
- Mustafa Yildiz
Competitors in this division will be judged on their ability to combine muscle mass with classic lines and presentation, making for an exciting and visually appealing competition.
Men’s Physique
The Men’s Physique division emphasizes a lean, beach-body look, with athletes showcasing well-defined, aesthetic physiques. The lineup includes:
- Miguel Abibe
- Mohammad Al Hababi
- Saud Al Khamees
- Andrea Amato
- Mauro Azzolina
- Mattia Ballarini
- Alessandro Colacchi
- Happy Edodo Ogieva
- Ali El Khtabi
- Fabian Feber
- Sotirios Gkatsis
- Enrique Gutierrez
- Dan Ibrahim
- Adama Jammeh
- Badmos Lawal
- Mikael Lega
- Daniel Leone
- Rui Liu
- Ruben Marques
- Jaime Maso Lopez
- Lenny Massouf
- Ziya Mousavi
- Matheus Nery Oliveira
- Tobey Rasheed
- Alvaro Rios
- Matthias Roth
- Andrea Santoro
- Alessio Sbizzera
- Omar Suleiman
- Dawid Wachelka
This division promises to be highly competitive, with athletes demonstrating the perfect blend of muscle definition and stage presence.
Key Factors to Watch
Conditioning and Presentation
One of the most critical aspects of any bodybuilding competition is conditioning.
Athletes must arrive on stage with the right combination of muscle mass, definition, and vascularity. Conditioning can often be the deciding factor between victory and defeat.
In addition to physical conditioning, presentation plays a crucial role. Competitors must execute their poses flawlessly and present their physiques in the best possible light to impress the judges.
Strategic Peaking
Timing is everything in bodybuilding. Athletes must peak at the right moment to ensure their muscles are full and their conditioning is at its peak.
This involves a delicate balance of diet, hydration, and training in the days leading up to the competition. Competitors who can master this timing will have a significant advantage on stage.
Psychological Preparation
The mental aspect of competition cannot be underestimated. Athletes must maintain focus and composure under the intense pressure of the spotlight.
Confidence and a positive mindset can significantly impact performance, helping competitors execute their routines with precision and poise.
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Predictions and Insights
Michal Krizo’s Chances
As the defending champion and a top contender in the Mr. Olympia rankings, Michal Krizo enters the Empro Classic Pro with high expectations.
His improvements in back detail and conditioning during the off-season are likely to be key factors in his performance.
If Michal Krizo can showcase a well-rounded physique with enhanced muscle definition, he stands a strong chance of retaining his title.
William Bonac’s Return
William Bonac’s return to the stage after a year-long hiatus adds an element of excitement to the competition.
With his experience and proven track record, William Bonac is a serious contender. Fans and judges alike will be eager to see how his time off has impacted his physique.
If William Bonac can present a tighter waist and refined muscle mass, he could challenge for the top spot.
The Dark Horse: Behrooz Tabani
Behrooz Tabani’s presence in the lineup adds an element of unpredictability.
Known for his shredded conditioning, Behrooz Tabani has the potential to upset the more established names if he can bring enough size and fullness to the stage.
His collaboration with Milos Sarcev is a promising factor, suggesting he will arrive in top form.
Conclusion
The 2024 Empro Classic Pro in Alicante, Spain promises to be an electrifying event, showcasing some of the best talent in bodybuilding.
With top contenders like Michal Krizo, William Bonac, and Behrooz Tabani leading the charge in the Men’s Open division, fans can expect a fierce battle for the title and coveted qualification to the Mr. Olympia.
Beyond the Men’s Open, the other seven divisions will offer their unique blend of athleticism, aesthetics, and competition.
From the classic lines of the Classic Physique competitors to the lean, defined physiques of the Men’s Physique athletes, the Empro Classic Pro will be a celebration of the human form and the dedication required to reach the pinnacle of bodybuilding.
As the competition date approaches, the anticipation builds, and the bodybuilding world watches with bated breath.
Who will emerge victorious and secure their place among the elite at the Mr. Olympia?
Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the 2024 Empro Classic Pro will be a spectacle of strength, beauty, and unparalleled athleticism.