Erin Banks is looking ahead after turning in a memorable performance at the Olympia’s 60th anniversary event. In a recent Instagram post shared on October 28, 2024, Banks shut down speculations about his retirement and confirmed plans to compete in 2025.
Erin Banks sported insane improvements in 2022, which helped him lay claim to the Men’s Physique Olympia title. In the process of earning gold, he defeated former three-time titleholder Brandon Hendrickson. Then, in 2023, all signs pointed to a successful title defense, but he chose to make a pit stop at the Legion Sports Fest Pro — a decision that ultimately backfired.
He lost the show to champion Kyron Holden, which foreshadowed what would come at the 2023 Olympia. Banks ended up taking third place behind Hendrickson and the newly minted titleholder Ryan Terry. Before taking on the biggest show of the year in 2024, Banks picked up momentum by winning the Dubai Pro. When he rematched Terry at the 2024 Olympia, Banks brought improvements but they weren’t enough to stop the dry and complete physique of Terry.
Men’s Physique Bodybuilder Erin Banks Squashes Retirement Rumors
Banks signaled that he was changing directions competitively after the loss. And while some thought that meant retirement, that wasn’t the case. Banks has now made it clear that he’s not going anywhere, hinting that he intends to compete on the horizon in 2025.
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“Retirement? Nah! 2⭕️25.”
He also reflected on his titles and accomplishments.
“I’ve won 2 Arnold Classic titles, the New York Pro, Dubai Pro, and Mr. Olympia, and yet, I’m still not satisfied. When I started competing, I thought the goal was to collect titles, but I didn’t know what to expect. All I saw was competition.
Maybe I approached it the wrong way, trying to prove my doubters wrong, when I should’ve focused on proving my supporters right. In the process, I created more enemies than necessary. But through it all, I’ve grown, and I’ve learned. What really matters isn’t the trophies—it’s the impact you have on others and the example you set, both on and off the stage.”
Banks emphasizes what the sport has done for him and his life as a whole.
“You might hear me say, “It’s just bodybuilding,” but don’t get it twisted, I love this shit. Bodybuilding gave me the ability to support my family, invest in new opportunities, travel the world, and transform my life from being unhealthy and overweight to something I’m proud of.”
“What I’ve learned is that bodybuilding forces you to discover who you are at your core. It tests you mentally and emotionally as much as it does physically. The hardest battles are the ones you fight with yourself against self-doubt, fear, and the temptation to quit. But those battles are what shape you into the person you’re meant to become” Banks said.
Erin Banks’ focus remains on more than just the titles, he is consistently pushing to be the best version of himself.
“The titles? Come and go. What really matters is how you grow through the process and use what you’ve learned to inspire and uplift others. For me, It’s not just about winning anymore, it’s about becoming the best version of myself every day and helping others do the same.”
“The journey never really ends, and I’m good with that. Life is bigger than any title or trophy! It’s about who you become along the way and the impact you leave behind. That’s what makes the grind worth it.”
Erin Banks will have his work cut out for him if he intends to knock reigning two-time Men’s Physique Olympia Ryan Terry off his throne. Terry continues to showcase improvements alongside jaw-dropping conditioning at the Olympia, which has made it more challenging than ever for Banks.
It appears Banks has plans in the works for 2025. Should he make any contest announcements, Fitness Volt will keep you up to date on his next move.
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