Texas Pro Showdown: Carlos Thomas Jr. vs. Labrada & Jacked

Carlos Thomas Jr. Sets Sights on Texas Pro

The 2023 bodybuilding season just intensified with Carlos Thomas Jr. confirming his pro debut target: the Texas Pro. In an Olympia TV interview, Thomas revealed this as his pathway to the Olympia, stating: "Texas is just the show for me right now... I'm very confident things will turn out in our favor." This creates a historic three-way clash against Hunter Labrada (in his best-ever condition) and Andrew Jacked (touted as a future Mr. Olympia).

The critical question: Has Thomas solved his back development needs since his 2021 Nationals appearance? His self-reported improvements could position him for a top-six Olympia finish if he defeats these elite opponents. This matchup becomes the ultimate measuring stick for Thomas' Olympia viability – a win instantly elevates him into title contention conversations.

Horse MD's Physique Transformation

Marcelo DeAngelis ("Horse MD") now weighs 130kg (286lbs) with visible improvements in arm size, hamstring detail, and midsection control compared to April updates. While proportional critiques remain valid, his current trajectory under Milo Starship Mass protocols shows promise.

Key developments:

• Lean mass gain evident despite stable weight
• Arms and hamstrings display new density
• Midsection management suggests improved conditioning

Though not yet a top-tier Open threat, Horse MD's progress indicates potential Olympia qualification within 1-2 seasons if improvements continue. His next show selection will be critical for momentum.

Chicago Pro Preview: Shier Leads Stacked Lineup

This weekend's Chicago Pro features a diverse field where Justin Shier emerges as the frontrunner. The surprise additions of Stanimal Longo and John De La Rosa (2019 Olympia Top 12 finisher) intensify competition.

Top Contender Analysis:

• Justin Shier: Most complete package with freakish conditioning
• Blessing Awodibu: Self-coached wildcard with explosive updates
• John De La Rosa: Veteran threat if injury recovery is complete
• Stanimal Longo: Dark horse after strong Vancouver Pro showing

Patrick Moore's third appearance this season adds uncertainty, but Shier's structural advantages and conditioning make him the predicted winner. The victor earns direct Olympia qualification in this strategically important late-season showdown.

Quentin Araya: The 2024 X-Factor

Opting for a Reagan Grimes-style off-season, Quinten "Beastwood" Araya focuses on mass gains for a 2024 campaign. Current updates reveal significant arm and shoulder development while maintaining his signature waist control.

At 6'1", Araya represents the resurgence of taller bodybuilders like Samson Dauda and Michal Krizo. Flex Wheeler's recent observations about shorter competitors dominating overlook this growing trend. Araya's frame-filling potential could disrupt the 2024 season if back development matches his front-double biceps shots. His height advantage becomes increasingly relevant as mass ceilings rise.

Pro Bodybuilding Tracker: Your Action Plan

1. Mark August 18-19: Watch Texas Pro streams for Thomas vs. Labrada vs. Jacked
2. Analyze back shots: Judge Thomas' improvements and Araya's progress
3. Follow @ifbbpro: Official Chicago Pro results this weekend
4. Track Horse MD: Await his next show announcement
5. Monitor mass phases: Note how off-season builders like Araya peak

Essential Resources:

• Olympia TV YouTube: Primary source for athlete interviews (trusted direct access)
• IFBB Pro App: Official show schedules and results (authoritative timing)
• Bodybuilding Archives: Historical comparison tool (contextual analysis)

The New Era of Open Bodybuilding

The Texas Pro crystallizes 2023's narrative: Carlos Thomas Jr. faces career-defining competition, while emerging giants like Araya signal a shift toward taller, complete physiques. Chicago Pro outcomes will finalize Olympia qualifiers, but all eyes now turn to the Carlos-Hunter-Andrew collision. This three-way battle doesn't just determine a winner – it reshapes the Olympia landscape.

When evaluating these matchups, which factor matters most: conditioning, structure, or presentation? Share your analysis below!