The 2025 Mr. Olympia is just days away, and fans are still unsure if Phil Heath or Big Ramy will compete. Both are former champions who haven’t confirmed their plans, and many wonder if either could make a surprise return. Heath has stayed quiet about his next move, while Ramy recently hinted that he’s getting back into shape, adding more interest to this year’s event.
In 2021, Big Ramy cemented himself as a two-time Mr. Olympia winner. At the time, no one thought he could lose; he boasted a bulletproof set of legs and more size than any competitor on stage. Despite those strengths, Ramy missed the mark in 2022, and the judges made him pay. He dropped all the way down to fifth place, while Hadi Choopan reigned supreme.
In Ramy’s last outing, he took fourth place at the 2023 Arnold Classic, and though he showed improvements, there were still discrepancies, like his fading triceps, lats, and lack of lower back definition. He skipped the 2023 Olympia and last year’s gathering, but has teased his return throughout 2025.
Like Ramy, Phil Heath never officially retired from bodybuilding. He last scored bronze at the 2020 Mr. Olympia, won by Elssbiay. “The Gift” has emphasized that he was willing to come back, but the price tag was holding him up. He asked for $1 million upfront for his comeback, and though we haven’t heard of any offers being sent his way, it’s still possible we see him back in action.
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Back in 2011, Phil Heath stopped Jay Cutler from winning his third straight Mr. Olympia title and became the new champion. After that, Heath stayed on top for years, winning seven Olympia titles in a row from 2011 to 2017.
His record puts him next to Arnold Schwarzenegger with seven wins, just one short of Lee Haney and Ronnie Coleman, who both hold eight Mr. Olympia titles.
How Big Ramy and Phil Heath Could Shake Up 2025 Mr. Olympia If They Enter
If Big Ramy or Heath brought an improved look onstage, earning a position in the top five would be just as challenging. The lineup is packed with major threats, including reigning champion Samson Dauda, Choopan, Derek Lunsford, Nick Walker, Martin Fitzwater, and Andrew Jacked.
A return for Big Ramy wouldn’t come completely out of left field; the former two-time champ said there was an 80% chance he’d make his return to the 2025 Mr. Olympia:
“I’m trying my best to be back, but I need to come back without an issue. That’s my goal, and I need to get back onstage, I need to be stronger than before. If I can’t come back with what I need, I don’t like to go onstage anymore.”
“I’m trying my best to be in Olympia this year. I fixed many problems with my muscles. I can’t say 100%, but I can say 80%, I will be back onstage this year. I’ll try, I’ll try,” explained Big Ramy.
While it doesn’t seem likely, there is a small possibility we will see either of these bodybuilding greats make a return. The competitors list will be out soon, so at least we will know exactly who’s set to compete. Don’t miss the 2025 Mr. Olympia, set for October 9-12 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
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