A transgender bodybuilder stepped onto the stage at the 2025 NPC Musclecontest Challenge, sparking discussions among fans.
The inclusion of transgender athletes in the fitness industry is a topic that often leads to debate, and bodybuilding is no exception.
This past weekend, a transgender competitor took part in the Classic Physique category during the 2025 NPC Musclecontest Challenge. A post on Instagram highlighted the event, and fans quickly shared their thoughts in the comments
The athlete, who identifies as a man, made history as the first transgender competitor in the Classic Physique division.
In February 2024, a regional bodybuilding event in Brazil introduced the Men's Wellness category.
The Roraima Classic is an independent competition and is not linked to the IFBB or NPC.
Each year, the Wellness division in the IFBB continues to expand, attracting athletes from various countries.
This category also caught the attention of IFBB Vice President Tyler Manion, who clarified that no new divisions would be added to the NPC or IFBB.
Fans React to Trans Bodybuilder in Classic Physique
The social media post was uploaded on Tuesday, and many users joined the conversation in the comments.
“I Don’t understand ? This is a woman ? And she is competing against men ?”
“Honestly, it’s insulting to the other competitors who have put in all that time and effort to have to even pose next to her. Should’ve denied the entry”
“Sorry but NO, thats all”
Many positive messages appeared under the post, including one from bodybuilder Terence Looi, who stood beside the trans competitor during the event.
“That’s me on the left! It was an absolute honor to share the stage with such dedicated athletes, including the one referenced in this post! They worked hard and put in their time to be on that stage. Respect to everyone who puts in the work and brings their best to the competition—this is what the sport is all about!”
Aryan Pasha is another transgender bodybuilder who has competed on stage.
Pasha first entered bodybuilding through female categories, and it was a major achievement when he transitioned to competing in men's divisions.
Since 2019, Pasha has participated in organizations like the IFBB, International Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation, and International Health, Sports & Fitness Festival.
Over the years, he has competed in multiple events, earning top-five finishes in three competitions. This includes winning first place at the IHFF in 2020 and securing a silver medal at Musclemania in 2018.
In 2017, Aryan Pasha started preparing for Trans Fit Con but was ruled ineligible due to his age.
Around this time, he discovered his deep passion for fitness. Pasha then focused on bodybuilding and has since built a thriving career in the sport.
The discussion around transgender athletes in bodybuilding often leads to mixed reactions on social media, and this case was no exception.
