“I’m Stepping Back”: Weeks Before Arnold Classic 2024, ‘Neckzilla’ Makes Heartbreaking Announcement Sending Shockwaves Through Bodybuilding Community

Rubiel ‘Neckzilla’ Mosquera had the bodybuilding world buzzing after showing off his freakish physique. Mosquera put the ‘monster’ back in ‘mass monster’ for many fans after rapidly rising through the ranks to qualify for the Arnold Classic 2024. However, earlier Neckzilla shared a depressing update for his fans and the entire bodybuilding community.

The bodybuilding prodigy posted on social media that he won’t be able to compete at the upcoming Arnold Classic Ohio. The announcement dashed the dreams of anyone hoping to see him go up against, and potentially defeat, elites like Samson Dauda, Hadi Choopan, and more. 

Bodybuilding fans have to wait a little longer

Rubiel Mosquera posted a photograph from the EVLS Prague Pro, where he made his IFBB Pro debut against the 2023 Arnold Classic champion Samson Duada. Musquera placed third in his IFBB debut in a show where Dauda took the first spot, surprising many.

“Due to unexpected visa challenges and my readiness, I’m stepping back from competing at @arnoldsports in Ohio, USA this year,” announced the bodybuilding star. The news upset the entire bodybuilding community.

“My sincerest apologies to @arnoldsports and all my supporters,” Rubiel Mosquera added.  Many promising bodybuilders have been unable to compete in the Arnold Classic and Mr. Olympia due to visa issues. However, Neckzilla’s prep seems to have derailed too.

The mass monster didn’t share details on what went wrong with his prep. However, he was grateful for the support. The bodybuilder thanked his fans and the Arnold Classic organizers for understanding his situation. Mosquera also promised to return to the stage “soon.” 

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With Rubile Mosqera pulling out, the Arnold Classic 2024 has lost yet another star in the Open bodybuilding division. Earlier, fan-favorite Andrew Jacked also announced he won’t compete.

The tragedy of the Arnold Classic lineup

Bodybuilding fans across the globe rejoiced after the Arnold Sports Festival announced this year’s Arnold Classic lineup. Defending champion Samson Duada got plenty of challenges to his throne. Hadi Choopan, Andrew Jacked, and Rubiel Mosquera to name a few. Fans labeled it the best lineup that the second most prestigious bodybuilding show has seen in years.

However, after Andrew Jacked and Rubiel Mosquera, only former Mr. Olympia Hadi Choopan remains. Choopan defeated Dauda in the 2023 Mr. Olympia. While fans await the contest between Choopan and the Nigerion Lion, Neckzilla’s exit is a blow to the initial star-studded lineup. Worryingly, Choopan’s visa confirmation is still pending at the time of writing.

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