Victor Martinez shares his complete breakdown of the 2025 Pittsburgh Pro – preview analyzing physiques and making his predictions
In the latest episode of the Generation Iron Podcast, Victor Martinez, covers a wide range of bodybuilding topics, fan questions, and expert predictions. As always, the hosts deliver straight talk, real-world advice, and seasoned insights that appeal to both hardcore bodybuilding fans and fitness enthusiasts alike. This week’s main topic of discussion is the 2025 Pittsburgh Pro – breaking down athlete highlights and Victor Martinez’s predictions on who will take the title.
Here’s a brief overview of the topics discussed in this episode:
- The most important blood panel tests to ask for as a bodybuilder.
- I tore my bicep, why does it have a better peak now?
- A complete breakdown and predictions for the 2025 Pittsburgh Pro.
- Is Andrew Jacked the future of Mr. Olympia?
- The biggest bodybuilding tip Victor Martinez has learned that he wishes he could tell his younger self.
You can watch the full latest episode of the Generation Iron Podcast above. Keep reading for an in-depth breakdown. Let’s dive in!
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Top Bloodwork Panels to Request for Optimal Health
Victor Martinez kicks off by answering a fan question about essential bloodwork panels to request during doctor visits. He emphasizes the critical importance of regular blood testing for everyone, not just athletes. According to Victor, understanding your bloodwork empowers you to stay ahead of potential health issues and manage your body more effectively — especially for bodybuilders pushing physical limits.
Victor recommends asking for these key tests:
- Liver Enzymes (AST/ALT)
- Lipid Panel
- Kidney Function Tests
- Hemoglobin Levels
- Glucose Levels
- Testosterone Levels
- PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) for men over 40
He notes that while annual wellness checks cover some basics, they often skip testosterone and PSA screenings. Men, particularly athletes, should directly request these additional panels to get a full picture of their health.
Bicep Tear: Illusion vs. Reality
Another fan asks about a torn right upper bicep tendon and notices the injured arm looks better than the uninjured one. Victor Martinez explains this phenomenon: a torn bicep can appear rounder, creating an illusion of a better peak.
However, this is not a positive sign — it’s the result of muscle trauma. Over time, the uninjured bicep will likely outgrow the torn one due to consistent, proper training. Victor underscores that torn muscles reduce functional capacity, leading to asymmetry as time progresses.
Pittsburgh Pro 2025: Preview and Predictions
The crew shifts gears to preview the Pittsburgh Pro 2025, which features its first-ever Men’s Open Pro competition. With big names like Derek Lunsford, the show is already positioning itself as a premier contest in the pro bodybuilding circuit.
Victor Martinez and Ehsan both predict that Derek Lunsford will take the top spot. As the reigning Arnold Classic champion and a former Mr. Olympia winner, Lunsford enters the Pittsburgh Pro as the heavy favorite. However, Nick Walker’s return adds intrigue. After missing Mr. Olympia for two consecutive years, Walker is eager to reclaim his status. His physique updates show clear improvements, and if he brings his best, he could upset expectations.
Victor points out that even minor missteps from Lunsford, similar to what happened at the 2024 Olympia, could open the door for Walker. Ehsan agrees, noting the razor-thin margins at this elite level of competition.
When speculating about second place, both Victor and Ehsan lean towards Nick Walker but also mention Good Vito as a dark horse contender. Vito’s recent showings have been impressive, and if anyone can challenge Walker, it’s him. Michal Krizo’s comeback is also worth watching, as he returns from injury and looks to reestablish his standing.
Andrew Jacked: A Future Olympia Champion?
Next, the hosts discuss Terrick El Guindy’s bold claim that Andrew Jacked has “everything in place” to win the 2025 Mr. Olympia. Although Jacked finished fifth at Olympia and third at the recent Arnold Classic, the hosts agree he shows immense potential.
Ehsan praises Jacked’s conditioning at the Arnold and believes he could break into Olympia’s top three within a year. Victor Martinez echoes this sentiment, pointing out that with continued refinement, Jacked is poised to become a serious threat. Both agree that in 2025, Jacked is likely to push for a third or fourth-place finish, making him one of the most dangerous up-and-comers.
Victor’s One Regret in His Bodybuilding Career
When asked what he wishes he knew when he started bodybuilding, Victor Martinez offers a candid reflection. He stresses the importance of strategic competition planning. Back in his early days, Victor focused on winning shows without considering long-term scheduling or prize value.
Now, he realizes that spacing competitions strategically and targeting high-reward shows would have conserved energy and maximized returns. He advises current athletes to set clear goals, work backward from competition dates, and avoid overextending themselves on smaller, less rewarding stages.
Wrap Up
This episode of the Generation Iron Podcast delivers valuable health advice, insider predictions, and veteran wisdom. Victor Martinez’s practical tips on bloodwork, muscle injuries, and strategic planning offer actionable insights for athletes at all levels. The Pittsburgh Pro 2025 preview builds excitement for what promises to be a landmark event in bodybuilding. Meanwhile, rising stars like Andrew Jacked and comeback stories like Nick Walker’s keep fans engaged and eager for what’s next.
Whether you’re tracking the pro circuit or looking to optimize your own fitness journey, this episode provides the knowledge and motivation to stay informed and inspired.
