Tonio Burton heads into the 2026 Pittsburgh Pro as a favorite, but is facing some backlash. In an Instagram stories post from May 13, he addressed synthol accusations following his last contest.
After trial and error, Burton has emerged as an elite Men’s Open competitor. He finished in eighth place at the 2025 Mr. Olympia and quickly followed it with a win at the Mexico Pro. At the stacked 2026 New York Pro, he brought arguably his best package to date, defeating the bigger Michal ‘Krizo’ Krizanek and Rafael Brandao.
Over the past season, synthol and site enhancement oil accusations have run rampant. Aside from Burton, fans have questioned whether Derek Lunsford used oil or a synthetic plastic-based filler (PMMA) to enhance his look. According to Lunsford, he doesn’t know what PMMA is, and his coach, Chris Aceto, echoed a similar sentiment.
The ongoing controversy has spilled into other bodybuilding divisions. Three-time Women’s Physique Olympia Natalia Coelho was accused by Sarah Villegas of using PMMA to increase her leg volume. As a result, lines have been drawn, with Dennis James and Jose Raymond chalking Villegas’ behavior up to poor sportsmanship.
Looking ahead, the 2026 Pittsburgh Pro is almost here, and Burton aims to extend his winning streak. However, in the days leading up to the showdown, he’s responding to some career-tarnishing allegations.
Bodybuilder Tonio Burton Denies Synthol Use in Shoulders Following 2026 New York Pro Win
On Instagram, Burton brushed off the recent synthol allegations. You can find his statement below:
“Because I don’t show off my striations in my shoulders lol ppl say it’s synthol. lol that’s what’s happens when you get ppl who don’t know and the wrong ppl power of social media like Ivan lol and MD,” shared Tonio Burton.
Despite the drama, Burton still intends to make a statement at the upcoming 2026 Pittsburgh Pro. Aside from Krizo and Brandao, other contenders could turn heads, including former Mr. Olympia and two-time Arnold Classic titleholder, Brandon Curry. On paper, Curry is the most decorated Pro in the Open lineup.
Beyond those names, fans expect solid performances from Blessing Awodibu, Patrick Moore, and Sasan Heirati. Not only will the winner secure a coveted Olympia qualification, but they’ll walk away with a $100,000 cash prize.
The 2026 Pittsburgh Pro takes place from May 16-17 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Our Fitness Volt team will have live coverage of the action.
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