In a shock announcement that’s left athletes and fans alike feeling blindsided, the 2025 edition of the Mr & Miss East Africa Bodybuilding Contest has officially been called off.
Originally set to take place on October 11 in Nairobi, the event was shaping up to be one of the biggest bodybuilding showcases on the regional calendar. Now, it’s gone. Just like that.
Organizers broke the news via social media, posting a short and somber statement on Instagram and Facebook:
"Thank You for Your patronage over the years. We would like to inform you that due to unforeseen circumstances, the Mr and Miss East Africa Bodybuilding Contest 2025, which was scheduled for 11th October 2025 at Nairobi Kenya, has been cancelled. 😞
Our hearts and minds are sold out to the sport and we assure you that we will be back, bigger and better.
We sincerely apologize for the inconveniences caused and appreciate your continued support."
— East Africa Muscle Mania Ltd @mmeabodybuildingcontest
No further details were shared.
For the bodybuilding community, the announcement hit hard. Athletes like Joe Ripper, Gachau Njoroge, and Philip Guya had spent months prepping, dieting, training. Now they face the reality of all that effort with no stage to shine on.
Fans didn’t hold back in the comments. One accused the Kenya Bodybuilding Federation (KBBF) of getting involved behind the scenes:
"fitbeastgrapher: KBBF imecheza intimidation to the real trusted event holders 😳"
Another offered some practical advice:
"richardbrexx: Scale down so that operations are manageable. Maybe even start at a county level. Scaling without sponsors is tough. It’s a shame for the athletes who invested so much. At least offer them an alternative or some ROI."
This isn’t just another event falling through but a major blow for a sport still finding its footing across East Africa. As a result of the cancellation,
Though organizers haven’t given any official reason, there're speculations about what could have happened:
However, at this point, all we can do is speculate.
Will there be a competition in 2026? Will organizers come forward with more transparency? Will top athletes now pivot toward international competitions, like Richard Gitau did?
There’s no official word on any of that yet.
For now, fans can only hope that this isn’t the end; just a tough chapter in what’s been a growing fitness movement in East Africa.
Stay tuned. And if you’re an athlete—stay ready. 💪🏾
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