After a decade competing in the Men’s Open division, Rafael Brandao is moving to Classic Physique in 2027
Rafael Brandao is preparing for a major change in his bodybuilding career. The Brazilian IFBB Pro has officially announced that he will leave the Men’s Open division and transition to Classic Physique in 2027.
Brandao confirmed the news in an Instagram video after receiving questions from fans about his future in the sport. The move comes after 10 years competing professionally in Men’s Open, where he established himself as one of the division’s most recognizable athletes.
While Brandao has not selected a competition for his Classic Physique debut, he made it clear that he intends to return to the stage next year.
Rafael Brandao Confirms Classic Physique Move
Brandao addressed the speculation directly in his latest Instagram video, confirming that the rumors surrounding his divisional switch were true.
“I’m gonna move from Open division to Classic Physique division, and I’m gonna compete next year, 2027,” Brandao said.
For Brandao, the announcement represents a significant turning point following a decade of professional bodybuilding.
“It has been a long journey for me since I turned pro in 2016,” he said. “This is ten years as a professional bodybuilding in an Open division, and now I’m super happy to make this announcement for you guys.”
Brandao concluded by telling his followers that he would see them on the Classic Physique stage sometime next year.
A New Chapter After 10 Years in Men’s Open
Brandao has long been recognized for his aesthetics, symmetry, and impressive proportions. Those qualities helped distinguish him in the Men’s Open division, where competitors are not subject to the same height-based weight restrictions found in Classic Physique.
His highest finish on the Olympia stage was 8th place in 2024.
Throughout his professional career, Brandao built a reputation for combining impressive muscularity with a streamlined waist and balanced physique.
His transition could make him an intriguing addition to Classic Physique, a division that emphasizes proportions, symmetry, muscular development, and presentation.
However, the switch will also present challenges. Classic Physique competitors must meet specific weight limits based on their height, meaning Brandao will need to adjust his physique to satisfy the division’s requirements.
It remains to be seen how much weight he will need to lose before stepping onstage.
What Can Fans Expect in 2027?
Brandao’s announcement adds another established name to a highly competitive Classic Physique landscape.
The division has continued to attract attention following Chris Bumstead’s retirement, with athletes battling to establish themselves among the sport’s elite.
Brandao’s combination of aesthetics and years of experience competing against top Men’s Open bodybuilders could make him an interesting contender. Still, success in one division does not automatically translate to another.
His conditioning, ability to meet the weight requirements, and presentation will all be important factors as he prepares for his debut.
For now, Brandao has not announced a specific competition or timetable beyond confirming his intention to compete in 2027.
After spending the first decade of his professional career in Men’s Open, the Brazilian star is ready to begin an entirely new chapter on the Classic Physique stage.
Header image embed via Instagram @rafabrandaopro
