After Mamdouh “Big Ramy” Elssbiay’s two-year absence from the stage, he looks to be gearing up for a return. In a recent Instagram post shared on July 7, 2025, Elssbiay teased his comeback, claiming, “I will be back.”
Big Ramy last competed in 2023 at the Arnold Classic, where he took fourth place against names like Samson Dauda, Nick Walker, and Andrew Jacked. It was a consequential moment in Ramy’s career; he proved he could bounce back successfully after dropping his Sandow trophy in 2022.
Ramy’s physique and health were brought into question before he took the hiatus. Head judge Steve Weinberger explained that the Egyptian native’s lats, triceps, and lower back were lacking detail and fullness. To fix the issues, Ramy underwent consistent stem cell therapy procedures, leaving many to wonder if and when he’d actually return to action.
Ramy said there was an 80% chance he’d make his comeback at the 2025 Olympia. Now, with his latest admission on social media, it appears Ramy’s return might be imminent, prompting widespread speculation among fans about his next performance.
Mamdouh “Big Ramy” Elssbiay Says ‘I Will Be Back’ 14 Weeks from the 2025 Mr. Olympia
Ramy confirmed via Instagram that he will be back, but doesn’t clarify when or where. He shared a picture of himself at the Arnold Classic. Could this mean he’s considering the 2026 Arnold Classic? If not, many believe he’s greenlit preparations for the Mr. Olympia to win back his title.
“I will be back” Big Ramy shared via social media.
Those who follow the sport closely, like coach Chris Aceto, have discussed the possibility of a Big Ramy comeback. He argued that Ramy is still a dangerous competitor:
“I think Ramy is dangerous in any show he does,” shares Chris Aceto. “He’s so big. We talked about this. I was on Guy Cisternino’s show, and he said who’s the biggest guy you ever saw and I didn’t even hesitate. It was 2015 Arnold Classic Weekend, Ramy was not competing, he was in an off-season.”
If Ramy can bring up the areas of his physique that held him back in 2022 and 2023, there’s a chance he could join Jay Cutler as only the second Open bodybuilder to win back the Olympia title. The 2025 Mr. Olympia is set for October 9-12 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
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