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One of bodybuilding\u2019s most unique physiques will not be making a run at the 2026 Mr. Olympia<\/a>. According to reports Rubiel \u201cNeckzilla\u201d Mosquera<\/a> and his team have decided to skip an Olympia qualification<\/a> push this season and instead focus on a full comeback in 2027 following his recovery from hernia surgery.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n Mosquera\u2019s coach reportedly confirmed that the priority is rebuilding the Colombian star\u2019s physique rather than rushing back to the stage. Neckzilla is said to be sitting around 143 kilograms (315 pounds) in the offseason \u2013 with some of the most monstrous legs<\/a> you\u2019ve ever seen \u2013 as he continues to recover and improve after surgery.<\/p>\n For fans hoping to see Mosquera battle for an Olympia qualification this year, the news is disappointing. However, it appears the decision was made with the long-term goal of bringing a more complete and competitive package when he eventually returns to competition.<\/p>\n Mosquera underwent hernia surgery earlier this year and spent months away from normal training while recovering. Updates<\/a> throughout the offseason showed the dramatic physical changes that came with the layoff, though many fans praised his patience and willingness to prioritize health over rushing back too soon.<\/p>\n Earlier this year, his team had indicated that preparations for the 2026 season were underway after he returned to Spain and resumed training. However, the latest update suggests they ultimately decided a full Olympia qualification campaign would not be the best move at this stage of his recovery.<\/p>\n Mosquera remains one of the most talked-about athletes in the IFBB Pro League thanks to his unbelievable structure, freaky muscle bellies, and, of course, the neck that earned him the nickname \u201cNeckzilla.\u201d He is also a two-time IFBB Pro winner and has become a fan favorite whenever he steps on stage.<\/p>\n The decision also adds another notable name to the growing list of athletes who will not be returning to the Olympia stage this year.<\/p>\n As things currently stand, three competitors who finished inside the Top 15 at the 2025 Olympia are expected to miss the 2026 contest:<\/p>\n Generation Iron<\/a> recently reported on Good Vito\u2019s surgery<\/a> and recovery, while Kalecinski also elected not to pursue an Olympia qualification this season. The absence of three athletes who finished inside last year\u2019s Top 15 leaves several openings in one of the deepest Men\u2019s Open lineups in recent memory.<\/p>\n While Mosquera\u2019s absence is a setback for fans, it could create opportunities for a new wave of contenders to make their mark at the Olympia. Athletes such as Quinton Eriya<\/a>, who recently punched his ticket to the big show with a breakthrough victory at the Toronto Pro Supershow<\/a>, have an opportunity to climb the rankings. Meanwhile, Jo Palacios<\/a> continues to build momentum after a strong 2026 campaign, while Sasan Heirati<\/a> has quietly emerged as one of the most dangerous dark horses in the Men\u2019s Open division. With three Top 15 spots from last year\u2019s Olympia potentially opening up, the battle to move up the standings could become one of the biggest storylines heading into Las Vegas.<\/p>\nA Long Road Back After Surgery<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Three Top-15 Olympia Finishers Now Out<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Opportunity for the Next Wave<\/strong><\/h2>\n