Kristina Mendoza withdraws from the 2023 Mr. Olympia, shaking up the Women’s Bodybuilding lineup. Just weeks before the contest, she shared an emotional Instagram post. In it, she revealed her body wasn’t responding well to prep. Therefore, she made the tough call to step away. According to Mendoza, her health had to come first.
Since 2016, Mendoza has pushed herself in the sport. In 2018, she nearly turned Pro at the Chicago Pro, finishing second. Still, she didn’t back down. Instead, she returned stronger each season. Over time, she became a regular top-five finisher. This year, many believed she could challenge the best in Orlando.
Now, the division moves on without one of its fiercest contenders. However, Mendoza’s decision reflects maturity and self-awareness. Looking ahead, fans hope to see her back on stage. After all, her story isn’t over yet.
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Determined and undaunted, Mendoza made her triumphant return at the 2019 IFBB Chicago Pro, clinching the first spot and, with it, her Pro card. Riding the wave of this victory, she plunged into the 2019 IFBB Pro Rising Phoenix just nine weeks later. This hasty decision might have led to her 16th place finish, but it also highlighted a trait integral to her success: resilience.
Kristina Mendoza Withdraws from 2023 Olympia
The bodybuilding community eagerly watched as Kristina Mendoza dominated at the 2023 Chicago Pro, clinching the top spot and securing her ticket to the Olympia. However, her journey took a turn at the Rising Phoenix Arizona Pro in September, where she settled for the eighth position.
Kristina’s rigorous training and unwavering commitment throughout the year made her a favorite for many. Yet, internal struggles and personal dissatisfaction with her results led her to make a heart-wrenching decision. Sharing her sentiments on Instagram, Mendoza revealed her choice to step back from the imminent Olympia competition, leaving fans and followers both supportive and saddened by the news.
Hello friends, fans, and family.
I am heartbroken to announce that….
*I will not be competing at this years 2023 Mr. Olympia.*
Long story short, many of you know that I have been on prep since January and at this point in time my body is no longer cooperating nor responding to prep. As much as I have dreamed and worked to be on that Olympia stage, I will not allow ego nor outside influence dictate my decision. I do not solely want to step on the Olympia stage due to the fact that I have qualified… I want to be at my very best when I do so.
It was not an easy choice to make, but I have come to peace with my decision.
Sometimes all you can do is leave it in Gods hands and rest.
Thankful and grateful for the continuous love and support. 🙏🏽✨” Kristina Mendoza wrote.
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Anticipated Olympia Debuts on Hold: Kristina Mendoza and Big Ramy Withdraw from the Competition
The world of professional bodybuilding thrives on anticipation, excitement, and the relentless drive to dominate the stage. However, the 2023 Mr. Olympia has taken an unexpected turn. Notably, two major contenders have withdrawn, leaving fans shocked and disappointed. These announcements arrived just weeks before the most prestigious event in the sport.
First, Kristina Mendoza’s exit shook the Women’s Bodybuilding division. Earlier this year, she claimed victory at the 2023 Chicago Pro. That win secured her Olympia qualification and raised expectations for a breakout performance in Orlando. Yet, in a heartfelt message on social media, Mendoza revealed that her body wasn’t responding during prep. As a result, she made the emotional decision to step away.
Meanwhile, in the Men’s Open division, another twist unfolded. Mamdouh “Big Ramy” Elssbiay—once a dominant Olympia champion—also bowed out. After a fifth-place finish at the 2022 Olympia and a fourth-place result at the 2023 Arnold Classic, fans were eager to see his return to form. Instead, Big Ramy announced that he would not compete at this year’s Olympia, choosing to focus on long-term improvements.
Ultimately, the Mr. Olympia stage demands more than muscle. It requires timing, discipline, and strategy. While the absence of Mendoza and Big Ramy is a blow to fans, their decisions reflect a deep respect for the sport. Colosseum Strength, along with the wider bodybuilding community, wishes them both health and success as they plan their comebacks.
Overview
The 2023 Mr. Olympia competition sees major shakeups with unexpected withdrawals, notably from Kristina Mendoza and ‘Big Ramy’ Elssbiay. Mendoza, following a successful run, cited her physique’s response as a reason to step back, as shared in a heartfelt Instagram post. ‘Big Ramy’, after a surprising fifth place in 2022 and fourth in the 2023 Arnold Classic, also announced his decision to skip the event. As the bodybuilding community awaits their return, Colosseum Strength echoes sentiments of support, looking forward to an intriguing competition ahead.
Featured Image – Kristina Mendoza Withdraws from 2023 Mr. Olympia Women’s Bodybuilding Division – Credit: @kristinanicole (Instagram)
