A trans bodybuilder took the stage during the 2025 NPC Musclecontest Challenge.
The topic of transgender athletes in the fitness world is one that always sparks a conversation or debate. The sport of bodybuilding is no different. Over the weekend, a trans bodybuilder competed in the Classic Physique division during the 2025 NPC Musclecontest Challenge. An Instagram post was shared displaying the news and fans took to the comment section to share their opinions.
The bodybuilder, who identifies as a male, became the first trans athlete to compete in the Classic Physique division.
[RELATED: Regional Bodybuilding Show Introduces Men’s Wellness]
In Feb. 2024, a regional bodybuilding show in Brazil introduced the Men’s Wellness division. The Roraima Classic is not associated with the IFBB or NPC. The Wellness division in the IFBB continues to grow each year with different competitors from around the world. The division also gained the attention of IFBB Vice President Tyler Manion, who explained that there would not be any additions to the NPC or IFBB.
Fans Respond To Trans Bodybuilder In Classic Physique
The post on social media was shared on Tuesday and many commenters began the discussion:
“I Dont 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”
There were also many positive comments under the post, including from bodybuilder Terence Looi, who stood next to the trans competitor during the show.
“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 trans bodybuilder that has competed on stage. Pasha began competing in Female categories of bodybuilding and it was a big accomplish when he was able to switch over to Men’s categories.
Since 2019, Pasha has appeared in leagues such as the IFBB, International Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation, and International Health, Sports & Fitness Festival. He has appeared in multiple shows with top-five finishes in three over the years. This includes a first-place finish in the IHFF in 2020 and a sliver medal at Musclemania in 2018.
In 2017, Aryan Pasha began training for Trans Fit Con but was denied eligibility because of his age. This was around the time he gained a true passion for fitness. Pasha began training as a bodybuilder and has built a successful career in the sport.
The topic of trans competitors in bodybuilding is one that will cause mixed opinions on social media posts and this was nothing new.
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