In the heart of Milan, under the ornate chandeliers of an Italian hall, the 2023 Flex Weekend Pro unfurled on September 10th. This wasn’t just another contest; it was a glimpse into the forthcoming 2023 Mr. Olympia, offering critical qualifiers in the Men’s Open, Men’s Physique, and Bikini categories.
The Race Against Time: Olympia’s Approaching Deadline
For those dreaming of flexing in the bright lights of Orlando, Florida’s Olympia stage, the clock’s ticking grows increasingly loud. With the qualification deadline of October 9 just on the horizon, athletes face a dwindling number of opportunities to ensure their place.
The Golden Ticket: Victory Over Points
In a surprising turn of events, the conventional points system has been shelved. Instead, an athlete’s victory at prominent Pro events, much like the Flex Weekend Pro, has become the golden ticket to the coveted Olympia stage. This year’s Milan showdown saw veterans of the sport, names like Roman Fritz, Nathan De Asha, and Regan Grimes, all with eyes fixed on that singular gold, making the judge’s task nothing short of Herculean.
2023 Flex Weekend Pro Winners
- Men’s Open: Nathan De Asha
- Men’s Physique: Ali Bilal
- Bikini: Lisa Reith
2023 Flex Weekend Pro Results
Men’s Open
- Winner — Nathan De Asha
- Second Place — Regan Grimes
- Third Place — Roman Fritz
- Fourth Place — Shouming Yan
- Fifth Place — Blessing Awodibu
- Sixth Place — Theo Leguerrier
- Seventh Place — Tim Budesheim
- Eighth Place — Jan Turek
- Ninth Place — Maik Ciesla
- Tenth Place — Dennis Reinhold
A Glimpse of the Titans: Prejudging Sets the Stage
As the prejudging rounds of the contest unfolded, fans were treated to a spectacle of mass and form, a prelude to the climactic showdown of the finals. Among the gladiators, Regan Grimes was a giant impossible to overlook. With the most impressive physique of his IFBB Pro career, he seemed to loom larger than life.
Grimes’ Redemption Arc
Since placing seventh at the Boston Pro, Grimes’ transformation has been nothing short of dramatic. The offseason saw him return with immense improvements, and as always, his detailed back was a force to reckon with, overshadowing De Asha’s in their respective poses.
De Asha’s Return: A Testimony to Tenacity
Ahead of the competition, Nathan De Asha had expressed a fierce commitment, vowing to endure whatever it took to clinch the victory. And he did not disappoint. Following a hiatus since his triumphant win at the Yamamoto Cup Pro in 2021, he stormed back onto the scene. While Grimes flaunted size, De Asha’s unparalleled conditioning and profound density, particularly when viewed from the side, made him a formidable contender.
The Final Verdict
In what can only be described as a razor-thin contest, Nathan De Asha emerged as the champion, clinching his spot for the upcoming 2023 Mr. Olympia. Grimes, with his commendable efforts, secured second place, while Roman Fritz gracefully rounded out the top three.
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
Men’s Physique
- Winner — Ali Bilal
- Second Place — Emile Walker
- Third Place — Lenny Massouf
- Fourth Place — Mohammad Ali
- Fifth Place — Adeyami Awoyemi
- Sixth Place — Chao Peng
- Seventh Place — Febo Gambacorta
- Eighth Place — Alessio Sbizzera
- Ninth Place — Andrea Antonelli
- Tenth Place — Luca Biolo
View this post on Instagram
Intensity Peaks in Men’s Physique at Prejudging
In the fiercely competitive Men’s Physique category, competitors showcased their commitment and dedication right from the prejudging round. Emile Walker and Ali Bilal, with their impeccable upper bodies and harmoniously balanced arms, were the clear frontrunners in this category.
Emile Walker’s Pursuit: From Past Setbacks to Present Triumphs
Walker’s journey to the top was paved with challenges. His last appearance in August at the 2023 T.R.U. Athlete Pro in London saw him clinching the third spot. This ranking, though commendable, seemed to serve as a fueling factor. He returned to the stage, evidently more refined and undoubtedly among his best looks.
Ali Bilal’s Stellar Return: From Sheru Classic Pro to Flex Weekend Pro
Ali Bilal’s journey to the Flex Weekend Pro has been nothing short of commendable. He last showcased his prowess at the 2023 Sheru Classic Pro India, managing to secure a bronze against a daunting lineup of competitors. Yet, Bilal’s recent performance was a testament to his dedication and meticulous preparation. Striking the ideal balance of symmetry during the finals, he managed to take home the gold.
Final Results: An Unwavering Display of Physique and Poise
The final rankings saw Ali Bilal reigning supreme, clinching the top spot. Emile Walker, with his stellar performance, stood close at second, while Lenny Massouf claimed the third podium position.
Bikini
- Winner — Lisa Reith
- Second Place — Ottavia Mazza
- Third Place — Kristina Brunauer
- Fourth Place — Velerya Fedorenko
- Fifth Place — Noemi Cosentino
- Sixth Place — Jade Kelsie Wolfenden
- Seventh Place — Marisa Woo
- Eighth Place — Giuditta Taccani
- Ninth Place — Sarah Neuheisel
- Tenth Place — Patrizia Vaccaro
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
Bikini Showdown Takes Center Stage at 2023 Flex Weekend Pro
In a high-stakes showdown at the 2023 Flex Weekend Pro, two formidable competitors, Lisa Reith and Ottavia Mazza, captivated the audience with their remarkable performances. Their impressive physiques and graceful poses left the judges facing a truly challenging decision.
Ottavia Mazza’s Momentum from 2023 T.R.U. Athlete Pro Triumph
Entering the competition with undeniable momentum, Ottavia Mazza had recently claimed victory at the 2023 T.R.U. Athlete Pro Bikini event in August. This win undoubtedly fueled her confidence, setting the stage for an electrifying face-off at the Flex Weekend Pro.
Lisa Reith Seeks Redemption at 2023 Flex Weekend Pro
For Lisa Reith, the 2023 Flex Weekend Pro was about redemption. After taking second place to Mazza at the 2023 T.R.U. Athlete Pro, she was determined to showcase an even more formidable presence on stage. Her relentless pursuit paid off as she secured the top spot and walked away with the gold.
The Results: 2023 Flex Weekend Pro Bikini Competition
In an exhilarating competition that featured nail-biting moments of suspense, Lisa Reith emerged victorious, clinching the coveted first place. Ottavia Mazza gracefully accepted the second position, while Kristina Brunauer earned the third spot on the podium.
2023 Flex Weekend Pro Scorecards
Colosseum Strength: Cheering the Victors On to Olympia Glory!
As the curtains closed on the 2023 Flex Weekend Pro and the victors were crowned, the team at Colosseum Strength couldn’t be prouder. With hearts filled with excitement and anticipation, they send their warmest wishes and unwavering support to the winners as they prepare to take the grand stage at the 2023 Mr. Olympia. May their dedication and hard work continue to shine, carrying them to new heights of success in Orlando, Florida!
Featured Image @moriauphoto (Instagram)
