15 December 2023 , 12:22
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Arnold Schwarzenegger's impressive bodybuilding record he set 57 years ago has been shattered by a teenager.
The film star became the youngest ever to win the Mr Universe title and earn a "pro card" at just 20 years old. But now, Anton Ratushnyi, a 19-year-old from Texas, USA, has outdone him by winning the Classic Physique pro after an astonishing four-year transformation.
Despite coming onto the scene just earlier this year, Ratushnyi has kept a low profile, but his latest success earned him his own "pro card", meaning he's no longer an amateur. For his amazing hard work, Anton managed to collect the top prize at this year's NPC national division.
Weighing in at around 245 pounds and a height of 5ft 11ins - a few inches shorter than Terminator star Arnie - it's pretty clear that Ratushnyi has worked really hard to transform from your average teen into an enviable muscle Adonis!
Taking to Instagram after his historic victory, Ratushnyi wrote: "With overcoming lots of adversity over the last year, I can't stress enough how important it is to believe in yourself and stay true to yourself no matter what others think of you.
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Ratushnyi's transformation began at 15 when he started training hard (Instagram/anton_swl)
He has packed on the muscle since (Instagram/anton_swl)"I'm so glad that I decided to pursue my true passion and didn't let negativity get to me. I took the risk to prep again and challenge myself mentally, physically, and emotionally to not just succeed in bodybuilding but grow as a person that would be worthy of inspiring this new generation."
He added: "Ladies and gentlemen, this is your new youngest IFBB Classic Pro, and the overall champion at NPC Nationals 2023."
Fans didn't hesitate to flock to Instagram to shower Anton with positive comments when he announced his big win. With more than 200k followers on Instagram eagerly following his journey, every single picture features him showing off his impressive muscles.
One fan exclaimed: "How was he not gonna win haha. Dude looks like sculpted stone." Another chimed in: "Congrats!! Looking forward to see what you do! LIMITLESS!!!"
The 19-year-old regularly posts pictures of his progress to social media (anton_swl /Instagram)
Ratushnyi is now being urged to compete in the Mr Olympia competition (anton_swl /Instagram)A third added: "Can't imagine wanting to become a bodybuilder and then you have to go against this dude."
Many are urging him to compete in next year's Mr Olympia tournament, where he could potentially smash another of Arnold Schwarzenegger's records if he wins - a prospect we wouldn't rule out, given his astonishing physique.
* An AI tool was used to add an extra layer to the editing process for this story. You can report any errors to [email protected]