In a surprising announcement, three-time Men’s Physique Olympia champion Brandon Hendrickson has officially withdrawn from the 2024 Men’s Physique Olympia.
The decision has sent shockwaves through the bodybuilding community, as Brandon Hendrickson was one of the marquee names expected to compete at the highly anticipated Mr. Olympia Weekend, scheduled for October 10-13, 2024, in Las Vegas, Nevada.
While fans eagerly awaited his return to the Olympia stage, Brandon Hendrickson confirmed through an Instagram story that he would not be competing this year. This left many wondering about the impact his absence would have on the competition.
A Well-Deserved Break for a Legend
Brandon Hendrickson reassured his supporters that his decision was not due to any health issues. Instead, he stated that his body simply needed a break from the rigorous demands of professional bodybuilding.
Having competed at the highest level since 2014, Brandon Hendrickson has been a dominant force in the Men’s Physique division, winning titles in 2018, 2020, and 2021.
However, after a decade of grueling competition, the former champion explained that he wanted to take some time off to recover and reset.
“I’ve been kicking it all year,” Hendrickson said in an Instagram live session following the 2024 Koloseum Pro in Milan, Italy.
“Please don’t start the health rumors lol I just wanted to chill this year. I’ll be back for my tings 2025.”
Brandon Hendrickson’s candid explanation emphasized that while he remains in good health, he recognizes the importance of giving his body a break.
The pressures of maintaining peak physical condition, along with the constant grind of training and competition, can take a toll even on the most seasoned athletes.
His decision to step away in 2024 shows his commitment to longevity in the sport and a strategic move to come back stronger in 2025.
A Missed Opportunity for History
Brandon Hendrickson’s absence from the 2024 Olympia lineup is not only a loss for his fans but also a missed opportunity for him to tie Jeremy Buendia’s record of four Men’s Physique Olympia titles.
Buendia, who reigned supreme from 2014 to 2017, has held the most Men’s Physique Olympia titles in history, a record that Brandon Hendrickson was poised to challenge.
In 2023, Brandon Hendrickson came tantalizingly close to winning his fourth title but was narrowly defeated by reigning champion Ryan Terry, settling for second place.
Had he competed this year, Brandon Hendrickson would have had the chance to make history and further cement his legacy as one of the greatest Men’s Physique athletes of all time.
Instead, his decision to take a break leaves the door open for a new contender to step up and seize the spotlight at the 2024 Mr. Olympia.
A Star-Studded Lineup Awaits
Brandon Hendrickson’s withdrawal, the 2024 Men’s Physique Olympia promises to be an electrifying event. Reigning champion Ryan Terry will return to defend his title, aiming to secure his second Men’s Physique Olympia crown.
However, Terry’s road to victory will not be an easy one, as he faces stiff competition from former champion Erin Banks, who won the Olympia title in 2022. Banks’ wide back, exceptional posing skills, and commanding stage presence will make him a formidable opponent for Terry, and their showdown is one of the most anticipated matchups of the weekend.
Adding further intrigue to the contest, Terry recently found himself embroiled in controversy after admitting to sharing Photoshopped images of his physique on social media.
While he has since taken responsibility for the incident, the controversy has cast a shadow over his Olympia preparations, leaving fans and experts wondering whether it will affect his performance on stage.
A Season of Withdrawals
Brandon Hendrickson’s decision to withdraw from the 2024 Men’s Physique Olympia is part of a larger trend this season, with several top-tier athletes opting to sit out the competition.
Bikini champion Jennifer Dorie also pulled out, citing personal reasons, while Open bodybuilding star Nick Walker decided not to compete in the 2024 Olympia despite being a fan favorite.
These withdrawals have significantly altered the landscape of the competition, shaking up predictions and adding an element of uncertainty to the event.
Looking Ahead to 2025
Although Brandon Hendrickson won’t be competing this year, his announcement that he plans to return in 2025 has already sparked excitement among his loyal fan base.
After a year of rest and recovery, Hendrickson is likely to come back with renewed focus and energy, ready to reclaim his place among the top athletes in the Men’s Physique division.
His journey toward a potential fourth Olympia title may have been delayed, but it’s far from over.
As the 2024 Mr. Olympia Weekend approaches, fans will undoubtedly miss seeing Brandon Hendrickson on stage, but his decision to prioritize his health and well-being sets an important example for the bodybuilding community.
In the meantime, all eyes will be on Las Vegas as a new chapter unfolds in the ever-competitive world of Men’s Physique bodybuilding.