The wait is over — reigning two-time 212 Olympia champion, Keone Pearson, has announced his Men’s Open debut. He confirmed the news via Instagram on September 8, 2025, and is set to compete at the EVLS Prague Pro.
“I truly believe I’m very worthy to be up on the Open stage and to compete with the big guys and make some noise. I’m super excited to do this. I’m not officially in the Open because I’m going back down to the 212, but I just want to challenge myself. I don’t run from work,” Pearson said.
Pearson is the latest competitor to start his Men’s Open campaign. Chris Bumstead opened the floodgates. He competed in a one-off Open contest at the Prague Pro in 2024, pushing Martin Fitzwater en route to second place.
Urs Kalecinski also made his highly anticipated debut in the Men’s Open at the ProMuscle Italy Pro. He shocked the world, showing off dramatic size improvements since his time as a Classic Physique bodybuilder. As a result of his win, he made history, becoming the first IFBB Pro to secure a dual Olympia qualification for Classic Physique and the Men’s Open.
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Keone Pearson Set for Men’s Open Debut at 2025 Prague Pro
Now, Pearson will attempt the Open category, and before even hitting the stage, the community likes his chances. Eight-time Mr. O Ronnie Coleman already predicted “The Prodigy” to win the Mr. Olympia in two or three years, a prophecy that could come true.
Find the official statement from Instagram below:
“The wait is over! 2x reigning Mr. Olympia (212) @keone_prodigy is coming to Prague to make his debut in the Men’s Open category – this is something you don’t want to miss! Buy your tickets now. Let’s go!” shared the Prague Pro Instagram account.
Pearson wouldn’t be the first reigning two-time 212 Olympia champion to try out Men’s Open Bodybuilding. Shaun Clarida, aptly nicknamed “The Giant Killer,” has proved himself on multiple occasions against the biggest bodybuilders in the world. In his last Open appearance, Clarida finished in seventh place at the 2025 Arnold Classic, won by Derek Lunsford.
Bodybuilding legend Jay Cutler also likes Pearson’s chances in the Men’s Open category. He doesn’t believe the 212 champ needs much time; Cutler thinks Pearson could carve out a spot in the top five at the Mr. Olympia this year. Moreover, Dennis James has said Pearson is “good enough” right now to win the Sandow trophy.
The 2025 Mr. Olympia qualification period ends on September 14. Since the 2025 Prague Pro event is scheduled for October 25-26, the champion of this event will earn their qualification for the 2026 Mr. Olympia. Additionally, we already know that Michal Krizo will return at the Prague Pro, setting the table for at least one high-stakes matchup in the Czech Republic.
Pearson has the shape and aesthetics to make waves in the Men’s Open. Let us know in the comments how you think he’ll fare in the new category!
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