Jon Delarosa Announces Retirement from Bodybuilding

[Kayce]

Jon Delarosa Retires from Competitive Bodybuilding After Storied Career​

Jon Delarosa, one of the most respected and consistent athletes in the Men’s Open division, has officially retired from professional bodybuilding. The announcement came on August 3, 2025, via Instagram, just hours after Delarosa placed sixth at the 2025 Tampa Pro — a show he had won just one year prior.

A Legacy Forged in Iron: Delarosa’s Competitive Highlights​

Jon Delarosa’s professional career spans over a decade, earning him a reputation as a seasoned warrior of the stage. Highlights include:

• 2015 Chicago Pro Champion – a breakout victory that placed him firmly on the map.
• International Presence – consistent performances at the Vancouver Pro, Toronto Pro, and various international IFBB Pro League events.
• 2024 Tampa Pro Victory – a major career resurgence, where he outmuscled rising stars like Jordan Hutchinson and Mohamed Foda.
• 2024 Mr. Olympia – 12th Place Finish – the pinnacle of his Olympia career.

Delarosa’s physique was a blend of classic proportions and modern mass, marked by dense muscle bellies, round shoulders, and a deeply conditioned back.

The Emotional Exit: Gratitude, Mentorship, and Legacy​

In his heartfelt post, Delarosa expressed deep appreciation for those who guided his journey. He honored:

• Victor Martinez, who mentored him in his formative years
• Steve Weinberger, for tough-love judging and honest critiques
• The Manion family and IFBB Pro League, for providing the competitive platform

“This poor kid from Washington Heights saw parts of the world he never imagined… and got paid to do it. Wow.” — Jon Delarosa

Training Partners Who Shaped a Champion​

Delarosa also gave a powerful shout-out to those who trained beside him and kept the intensity high, including:

• Juan Morel (@juandieselmorel)
• Akim Williams (@akim_bkbeast_williams)
• Pop Delarosa
• Bronx Bad Boy

These names represent the iron circle that pushed Jon through every brutal offseason and pre-contest grind.

From Olympia Ambitions to Family Aspirations​

While many competitors fade out quietly, Delarosa is stepping away with purpose. He revealed plans to start a family with his wife, Taylor Delarosa, writing:

“I’m closing this chapter… for something with a deeper purpose. God willing, my beautiful wife and I will start a family soon.”

This statement highlights not just the end of an era, but the start of a more profound mission — one of love, legacy, and life beyond the stage.

Why Jon Delarosa's Retirement Matters to Bodybuilding​

Delarosa's decision to retire isn't just personal — it signals a generational shift. He stood at the intersection of old-school grit and new-school evolution. His exit opens space for younger competitors, like Hutchinson and Foda, to rise while reminding fans of the dedication it takes to stay relevant in the Open class for over a decade.

Final Thoughts​

Jon Delarosa didn’t just compete — he inspired. From humble beginnings in Washington Heights to gracing the Olympia stage, his journey speaks to the transformative power of bodybuilding. His retirement marks the end of a chapter, but his impact on the sport, the culture, and the community will endure.

 

[KaiGold]

Sad to see him go! I have been a fan for what seems like forever!