Akim Williams has not yet commented on reports of his withdrawal.
Akim Williams is one of the quickest-rising bodybuilders in Men’s Open. He was preparing to compete in his fourth Arnold Classic competition but fans might have to wait until next year. Williams has reportedly taken his name out of the 2022 Arnold Classic, according to multiple outlets.
Williams has not yet made an official statement on his status for the competition. The Arnold Classic is scheduled for March 3-6 in Columbus, OH.
Akim Williams has continued to share workout videos on social media but has been short with his captions.
With Williams pulling his name out of the competition, this leave 10 bodybuilders vying for the Arnold Classic title in Men’s Open. It became with Rafael Brandao withdrew from the competition for undisclosed reasons. Then, both Nathan De Asha and Mohamed Shaaban were forced to pull out due to injuries.
2022 Arnold Classic Lineup
- William Bonac
- Maxx Charles
- Brandon Curry
- Samson Dauda
- Regam Grimes
- Steve Kuclo
- Cedric McMillan
- Fabio Giga Rezende
- Justin Rodriguez
- Brett Wilkin
It is still a lineup full of big names despite four competitors withdrawing. Curry continues to be one of the favorites to win the event after back-to-back runner-up finishes at the Olympia. McMillan will also make his return to the stage while Kuclo is looking to build off a third-place finish last year. Wilkin is considered a dark-horse to win the show and jumpstart his 2022 campaign.
Akim Williams finished fifth during the 2021 Arnold Classic. During his career, he has won three shows and continues to improve as time goes on. Williams’ first victory came during the 2016 Tampa Pro. In 2020, he was victorious during the 2020 Chicago Pro followed by a win during the 2021 Puerto Rico Pro. He has competed at the Olympia four times, including a sixth place finish in 2020.
After withdrawing from the Arnold Classic, Williams will have to find another way to qualify for the 2022 Olympia. He can do this by winning another show or earning system points. There is still plenty of time as the Arnold Classic typically begins the bodybuilding season.
Fans were looking forward to watching Williams perform in Columbus but they will have to wait a bit longer. It will be interesting to hear the reason for his withdrawal once the bodybuilder makes an official statement.
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