Fitness made for you
PT-designed routines and recipes.
Get real results without the high price tag.
As we approach this year’s Olympia, the headlines tend to center around the Men. So far, we’ve had Classic competitors switching divisions and gaining their Open qualification. We’ve also had the usual mysterious competitor updates from the main Men’s Open athletes.
However, as the men take center stage, the women’s divisions have continued to quietly grow. The Wellness Division has soared in popularity in recent years after being introduced into the IFBB Pro League in 2020. Only a year later, it was put into the Olympia for the first time.
Francielle Mattos has been an integral part of growing the Wellness Division. Her incredible glute development has often meant she’s been the poster girl of the category. After dominating the division for three years, she was beaten for the first time last year by her Brazilian counterpart, Isabelle Nunes.
Many thought she would look to regain her title at this year’s Olympia. However, her recent announcement sent shockwaves throughout the Wellness community.
Key Takeaway
Francielle Mattos, three-time Olympia Wellness Division champion, has withdrawn from the 2025 Olympia. On September 11, she announced that she would be dropping out in a heartfelt Instagram post.
Her announcement comes after she was beaten at last year’s Olympia for the first time by Isabelle Nunes. In her statement, she said that her mind and body need a break from competing. Going forward, she will focus on family, friends, and other business opportunities while continuing to grow her physique.
With a wide-open Wellness Division, Isabelle Nunes is the clear favorite to win this year’s Wellness title.
Three-Time Wellness Champion Francielle Mattos Drops Out Of 2025 Olympia
Francielle Mattos will not attempt to regain her Wellness title at the 2025 Olympia after losing to Isabelle Nunes. On September 11, she announced that she would be dropping out in an Instagram post.
“This year, Mr. Olympia will hold its 5th edition of the Wellness category… and for the first time, I won’t be there.
Francielle Mattos
It’s been almost 10 years dedicated to sports, a journey marked by struggles, overcoming, and achievements that changed my life forever. Along the way, I lived the dream of climbing the biggest bodybuilding stage in the world and had the honor of becoming the triple-champion of Mr. Olympia Wellness—a title that is not just mine but everyone who believed in me.”
When discussing her withdrawal, Mattos stated that her body and mind needed a break after years of high-level competition. She emphasized that the break will not be the end of her career. She’ll continue to build her Olympia-winning physique while taking time for her family, friends, and other business ventures.
“Saying that I won’t be present in 2025 brings me great sadness, because my athlete soul always dreams of giving my best every season.
Francielle Mattos
But this year, my body and mind have asked for a much-needed break. I needed to turn my eyes on what sustains everything I’ve built: my health, my family, and also the new projects that are emerging that require a lot from me.”
Where Does Her Withdrawal Leave The Women’s Wellness Division?
Wellness competitors are judged on their shape, symmetry, and conditioning. Particular focus is placed on their posterior chain muscles, including their glutes, hamstrings, and thighs. Points are also given for overall stage presence, tan, and makeup.
This unique focus has attracted women who naturally have well-developed lower bodies, with Francielle being a prime example. She arguably has the best glutes in the division, with her signature glute pose often featured in media outlets.
After switching from Women’s Fitness to the Wellness Division, Mattos dominated the Wellness landscape. She secured three consecutive Olympia Wellness titles from 2021 to 2023 before being beaten by Isabelle Nunes. While many fans saw her as untouchable, it represented a slight shift away from a physique that’s been so dominant.
With Nunes securing the title by a single point, many people, including myself, were looking forward to a hotly contested Wellness showdown. However, her withdrawal leaves the division wide open for Nunes to take another title. While it’s certainly not guaranteed, I know who I’ll be putting my money on.
“I have learned that being a champion goes beyond trophies. It is also knowing to recognize the moment to breathe, to take care of yourself, and to continue building with love and purpose.”
Francielle Mattos
With less than a month until the big day, we’ll be bringing you breaking updates on every division. Will Nunes take a second crown, or will someone new break through? Stay tuned for a wide-open Wellness Division showdown!
Frequently Asked Questions
Mattos has been a major figure in the wellness division over the years. Her signature glute development and commanding stage presence have been key to her three Olympia titles.
Her Instagram announcement states that she plans to take a break rather than officially retire from competing. Mattos plans to take time to focus on her health, family, and new projects while continuing to improve her physique.
With Francielle out of the Olympia, Isabelle Nunes is the favorite to win this year’s Olympia Wellness title. She’s the only woman to beat Mattos in competition since the Wellness division was introduced to the Olympia.
About the Author
Chris Marshall, MSc, PT Personal Trainer
0 Comments