In a heartfelt announcement that resonated deeply with the bodybuilding community, Jon Delarosa has officially retired from competitive bodybuilding.
The news came on Sunday, August 03, 2025, just one day after Jon Delarosa placed 6th at the 2025 Tampa Pro—a performance that now stands as the final chapter of a 14-year professional career defined by consistency, resilience, and quiet dedication.
In a touching Instagram post, Delarosa shared his decision with fans, coaches, and loved ones, marking the end of an era for one of the sport’s most consistent and respected figures in the Men’s Open division.
“I’m closing this chapter of my life as hard as it is… because this is all I know—for something with a deeper purpose!”
🏆 A Career of Consistency and Climb
Jon Delarosa’s journey in professional bodybuilding began in 2011, when he earned his IFBB Pro Card after a dominant amateur career.
He made his pro debut in 2012, and from the very start, he proved he belonged among the elite.
🔹 Early Career Breakthroughs
- Six top-three finishes in his first three years
- Winner of the 2015 Chicago Pro – a career-defining victory
- Olympia debut in 2015 – a dream realized
Delarosa wasn’t a flashy name or a social media sensation. He was a grinder—a man who showed up, stepped on stage, and delivered polished, conditioned, and balanced physiques year after year.
His 2017 season was one of his best:
- 2nd – Toronto Pro Supershow
- 2nd – New York Pro
He repeated that runner-up magic in 2023, finishing:
- 2nd – Tampa Pro
- 2nd – Chicago Pro
But it was 2024 that marked the pinnacle of his career.
🔹 2024: The Best Year of His Life
- 1st – Tampa Pro – his first-ever pro win
- Qualified for the Mr. Olympia
- 12th Place – Mr. Olympia 2024 – the highest placement of his career
That year, everything clicked—his conditioning, his posing, his stage presence.
And now, at the peak of his performance, he’s chosen to walk away on his own terms.
💬 “This Is All I Know… For Something With a Deeper Purpose”
In his retirement post, Jon Delarosa didn’t just thank his fans—he opened up about what comes next.
“God willing, my beautiful wife @taylorrrdelarosa and I will be able to start a family soon!”
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This wasn’t just a retirement from bodybuilding.
It was a transition into a new life—one centered on love, family, and faith.
He thanked his wife, Taylor, for her unwavering support through the grueling prep cycles, the travel, and the emotional toll of competition.
“I wouldn’t be here without her.”
He also expressed deep gratitude to his coaches, training partners, and fans who supported him “all of these years.”
“Love you all and thank you all for the love and support…”
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The message was clear: this isn’t an ending. It’s a beginning.
🧠 Why Jon Delarosa Was a Fan Favorite
Jon Delarosa never won an Arnold Classic. He never stood atop the Mr. Olympia podium.
But he was beloved—and here’s why:
1. Consistency Over Hype
- Competed in every major show for over a decade
- Always brought a sharp, conditioned, and complete package
2. No Drama, No Ego
- Stayed out of controversies
- Let his physique do the talking
3. Respect for the Sport
- Trained with legends like Derek Lunsford, Samson Dauda, and Nick Walker
- Was known for his humble demeanor and professionalism
4. Relentless Work Ethic
- Trained through injuries, setbacks, and losses
- Never gave up on his dream
“He wasn’t the biggest, but he was always ready.”
🏁 The Final Pose: 6th at the 2025 Tampa Pro
Delarosa’s final competition was the 2025 Tampa Pro, where he placed 6th in a stacked Men’s Open lineup that included:
- Jordan Hutchinson (1st)
- Quinton Eriya 2nd
- Joseph Palacios 3rd
- John Jewett 4th
- Bruno Oliveira Santos 5th
- Jonathan Delarosa 6th
- Patrick Moore 7th
- Emir Omeragic 8th
- Stuart Sutherland 9th
- Yun Long Pin 10th
It was a strong, respectable finish—a fitting farewell for a man who always gave his all.
His physique was dense, hard, and well-balanced, a testament to his lifelong commitment to the craft.
And as he walked off the stage for the last time, the crowd gave him a standing ovation—a rare honor for a retiring athlete.
🔮 What’s Next for Jon Delarosa?
While he’s stepping away from competition, Delarosa is not leaving the fitness world.
He plans to:
- Focus on starting a family with his wife, Taylor
- Continue coaching and mentoring young bodybuilders
- Share his knowledge through social media and online programs
- Stay active in the gym—just not for the stage
“The grind doesn’t stop. It just changes direction.”
❤️ Final Thoughts: A True Professional, A Real Man
Jon Delarosa wasn’t just a bodybuilder.
He was a role model—a man who proved that you don’t need viral fame, steroid scandals, or controversy to succeed.
You just need:
- Discipline
- Heart
- Integrity
He competed in the shadow of giants, but he never stopped climbing.
And now, as he closes this chapter, he leaves behind a legacy that every aspiring bodybuilder should study.
Because Jon Delarosa didn’t just chase trophies.
He lived the lifestyle.
And that’s the highest honor of all.