Another Bodybuilder Adds His Name to the List of Athletes Pulling Out of the Upcoming Arnold Classic Because of Family Reasons

Bodybuilding‘s second most prestigious event, the Arnold Classic is scheduled for Feb. 29-March 3, 2024 in Columbus, Ohio. However, before the contest multiple athletes took their names out of the goblet, including Emile Walker. Yes, the IFBB Pro Men’s physique athlete recently withdrew his name from Ohio and UK competitions.

Walker, who claimed victory at the 2023 Fitness Authority, Poland Muscle Fest Pro, isn’t just about flexing muscles on stage. He is also a family man, which is the reason he withdrew his name from the competition.

Emile Walker prioritized family over the Arnold Classic

Walker’s pulling out the news was shared by the Instagram page bisandtris, they wrote in the caption, “@emilewalker_ifbbpro pulls out from both Arnold Classics for wanting to take care of his home and family, says Emile. #mensphysique” This choice sheds light on the side of the ambitious athlete that goes beyond the typical narrative of muscle-bound competitors. Hailing from London, Emile’s ascent in bodybuilding is noteworthy. From being a regular at the gym, he rapidly transformed into a serious contender over the past three years. His journey isn’t just about physical transformation; it’s a narrative of relentless determination and pushing personal boundaries.

Already having made a mark by participating in the 2022 and 2023 Mr. Olympia competitions. his sudden announcement of withdrawing from the competition is a shock for his fans. However, did you know his career kickstarted with mentoring children, and when fitness captured his heart, his ambitions soared? Despite putting in all, the athlete understands his responsibility and whom to prioritize; he is sacrificing his professional dream to be with his loved ones. Besides Walker, Andrew Jacked and Jeffery Darko have already withdrawn their names from the competition.

Darko and Jacked withdraw their names as well

Ghanaian bodybuilder Jeffrey Darko, a pro-Men’s Physique competitor, has withdrawn from the Arnold Classic due to health issues, following a similar decision by Andrew Jacked. Darko, known as @bigblackghanaman on Instagram, didn’t provide details about his health conditions, but a post by Bisandtris shared the news. Earlier, Jacked had also withdrawn from the event, explaining that he had too many responsibilities demanding his attention and didn’t want to compete unless he could give his best. Unlike Darko, Jacked had clear reasons for his decision.

READ MORE: “Would Make a Very Funny Police Film”: Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Spokesperson Makes Wild Suggestion After Terminator Was Detained at Munich Airport

Bisandtris shared both withdrawals on their Instagram account, raising eyebrows in the bodybuilding community. Darko’s withdrawal has no specifics mentioned in the initial post. The unexpected back-to-back withdrawals have surprised many fans, leaving them curious about the challenges faced by these accomplished athletes.

WATCH THIS STORY: When Will The Arnold Classic 2024 Start And Who Are The Athletes Competing This Year?