Bodybuilding veteran Mohamed Shaaban started the 2024 competitive season with high hopes. He started off the year competing in the prestigious Arnold Classic, sharing the stage with other elite bodybuilders. However, Shaaban hit a rough patch as a mild fever snowballed into a serious illness. Now, the 39-year-old has explained what happened through an Instagram post.

Mo Shabaan explained that when he fell ill, he thought it was nothing more than a “bad case of flu.” Yet, the bodybuilder couldn’t have been more wrong because his “body began shutting down,” and he started experiencing “excruciating” lower back pain. Things got worse for Shaaban as he lost sensation in his legs. On top of that, no one could figure out what was wrong with Shabaan.

“I have been in and out of two different hospitals and urgent care facilities. Almost hopeless to find a solution,” wrote the bodybuilding veteran. Things became so precarious that the Mr. Olympia contender had to spend time in the Intensive Care Unit because his organs started shutting down. Thankfully, the doctors were able to save him.

The bodybuilding star finally saw some improvement in his condition at the Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center. The 39-year-old thanked the medical team who worked to save his life. Shabaan also revealed that an infection had triggered the entire ordeal. The illness hit him while he was preparing to guest pose at the Pittsburg Pro.

While this is an unforeseen circumstance, Mohamed Shabaan still apologized for failing to fulfill his commitment. The IFBB Pro even said he would travel to Pittsburgh to support the show as a spectator if his doctors allow him. However, the bodybuilding community was only concerned with Mo Shabaan’s health.

The bodybuilding community comes together to pray for Shabaan’s health

While the 39-year-old veteran bodybuilder may feel bad for letting down the fans at the Pittsburgh Pro, they care for his safety more than a show. “Get better soon bro,” wrote concerned bodybuilding sensation Andrew Jacked. “Get well soon Mo!” commented the official Arnold Sports Festival Instagram handle. “Oh, man! Bro, you are in my prayers,” wrote fellow IFBB Pro Jonathan De La Rosa.

“Wishing you a speedy recovery,” he added. “Glad you are feeling better and finally taking care of your brother. Sending you all the love and support champ,” commented a fan. Bodybuilding icon Dennis James also advised Shabaan to catch some rest. “Rest up and get well brother,” commented The Menace Podcast host.

While Mo Shabaan had a promising start to his competitive season, the sudden illness has thrown him off track. He may be unable to return to competition for the remainder of the season. However, the bodybuilding veteran seems confident that he’ll recover fully.