Fans Thank 45-YO Bodybuilding Legend for Increased Open Division Prize Money: “Changing the Game”

Bodybuilding fanatics are showcasing their excitement as prize money for the New York Pro hits new heights. However, one might be surprised at the fact that IFBB Pro bodybuilder Fouad Abiad is the one receiving all the gratitude. The recent surge in prize money, long-awaited by athletes, marks a monumental shift in the bodybuilding landscape.

Fans were thrilled when, on April 3rd, bodybuilding legend, Abiad made a groundbreaking joint announcement for the 2024 Detroit Pro event. “Bodybuilders have been complaining about backdrops, lighting, and prize money for decades. We’re doing our part to try and give them what they want!” he had exclaimed. But how did this help the New York Pro?

Did the NY Pro Show follow Detroit Pro’s lead?

Revealing the top three prizes for the Detroit Pro show, Abiad disclosed the staggering amounts: $25,000 for first place, $10,000 for second, and $5,000 for third. The spotlight then shone on Martin Fitzwater as the first recipient of the hefty $25,000 prize. Following the Detroit Pro show’s lead, the New York Pro has now jumped on the prize money bandwagon, upping their game from $25,000 to an impressive $30,000.

A recent post by Bis and Tris, shared the news with fans, saying, “The upcoming @bevsgym New York Pro is set to increase its Open Bodybuilding prize money from $20,000 to $30,000.” 

In contrast, major contests like the Mr. Olympia and Arnold Classic have historically offered substantial rewards, the announcement by Arnold Schwarzenegger himself to boost the Open division prize money at the Arnold Classic to $500,000 had sent shockwaves through the community.

However, fans are extremely excited for the impending change at the New York Pro. They are expressing their admiration for Fouad Abiad’s transformative impact on the industry.

Fouad Abiad is setting a higher standard for bodybuilding events

Fans expressed excitement and admiration for Fouad Abiad, stating, “Fouad changing the entire Industry! FOOKING LEGEND!” “We should thank @fouadabiad for that,” one fan wrote, thanking him for his contribution to the sport. Netizens praised the 45-year-old for setting a high standard, hoping others would follow his lead. One such comment read, “@fouadabiad setting the dam standard hopefully everyone follows suit and we are all waiting for the lighting and black backdrop now.”

The changes and innovations spearheaded by Abiad are noteworthy, remarked one fan, writing, “Fouad out here changing the game.” Fans claim that with the increased prize money, “These pro shows are heading in the right path.” One cheerfully exclaimed, “@robertgabrielle2015 fouad was the one who has started implementing all the things everyone else has been TALKING about for years.Yes this is Guy,but Fouad started all this.Prior to that nobody was doing shit except for Arnold.” 

Bodybuilding fans seem thrilled with the increased prize money in events, thanks to Fouad Abiad’s efforts. His influence is celebrated, setting a new standard for the industry’s future. Do you also think the NY Pro show followed the Detroit Pro’s suit? Let us know in the comments.