Men’s Open bodybuilder Rafael Brandao is feeling strong despite nearly two weeks of low carbohydrates. On April 21, 2026, he shared a ripped physique update just 2.5 weeks from the 2026 New York Pro.
“I’m feeling good emotionally and pushing my best daily. There are days when tiredness hits hard, but I promise I won’t deliver less than my 100% 🙏🏻 🤍.”
Rafael Brandao is easily the most well-known Brazilian competitor in the Men’s Open class. He picked up significant momentum, winning the Romania Pro in 2024. Although this qualified him for the 2025 Mr. Olympia, he sat out in favor of adding more muscle mass.
After a rest, Brandao returned refreshed at the 2026 Arnold Classic. However, he didn’t fully nail his peak, and other contenders brought stellar looks. Ultimately, the Open star secured sixth place, leaving him eager for a bounce-back performance.
Brandao is hedging his bets to ensure he’s Olympia-qualified. He threw his name into the upcoming 2026 New York Pro and, as a backup, will also compete at the Pittsburgh Pro. Mass monster Michal ‘Krizo’ Krizanek has employed the same strategy, and fans are ready to see how these two stack up when they take the stage.
Bodybuilder Rafael Brandao Shows Off Impressive Physique Update 2.5 Weeks from 2026 New York Pro
In the post, he showed off his back detail, hit a side chest post, and a most muscular. He admits that he felt flat from a lack of carbs, but actually gained five kilograms. With Classic muscle separation and the mass needed for the Open stage, Brandao’s potential to shake up the lineup is high.
Find Rafael Brandao’s physique update below.
“11 days low carb (with control) today I feel a little flat but we are getting there expected conditioning. I used to get worried when I saw my weight losing, but this time we did a weight test and I gained about 5kg. I feel my body is responding to all strategies,” Brandao wrote.
Brandao continues to refine his posing and improve his training while away from the stage. He has worked out alongside bodybuilding royalty, including former seven-time 212 Olympia champion Flex Lewis. “The Welsh Dragon” has served as a second eye for Brandao over the years.
As of this writing, the competitors list for the 2026 New York Pro has not been finalized. Despite that, fans expect a tense showdown between Brandao and Krizo when the event makes its return from May 8-9 in Teaneck, New Jersey.
