In an interesting development for beauty pageants in Brazil, Bernardo Rabello has been selected as a regional winner to represent Rio de Janeiro in the upcoming Mister Brasil 2025 competition. This marks a historic first as Rabello becomes the first transgender man to compete in this prestigious national male pageant.
Previously, a Brazilian competition created Men’s Wellness Division to prevent feminine men from competing with women. There was a clear distinction in bodybuilding between traditional men’s and women’s divisions, with each category emphasizing specific aesthetic and muscular development criteria. However, the recent Roraima Classic event in Brazil disrupted that norm by introducing a Men’s Wellness division. Unlike IFBB and NPC-sanctioned competitions, which maintain a strict categorization of divisions, the independent Roraima Classic has gained a reputation for taking a more unorthodox approach.
The original Wellness division, historically a female-focused category, prioritizes lower body muscle mass, particularly in the hips, glutes, and thighs, while maintaining a balanced upper body—an aesthetic that has gained immense popularity, even securing a spot at the Olympia stage, where Francielle Mattos has remained an undefeated champion. Despite the division’s success among female competitors, IFBB Vice President Tyler Manion has firmly stated that there are no plans to introduce any new divisions, including a Men’s Wellness category, into IFBB or NPC competitions. This stance has not stopped regional shows from experimenting, as seen at the Roraima Classic, where the Men’s Wellness division became a hot topic on social media. Some supporters have praised the inclusion as a step toward expanding bodybuilding’s diversity, while critics have dismissed it as unnecessary or even detrimental to the sport, with calls for a boycott surfacing online. Adding fuel to the discussion, San Moraes’ victory in the new category has placed even more scrutiny on the event, as established figures in the bodybuilding community, including Mike Sommerfeld, have voiced their opinions on whether this shift represents progress or a deviation from the sport’s core principles.
Rabello is no stranger to the pageant world, having previously claimed the title of Mister Trans Brasil in 2021. His selection represents a significant step toward inclusivity in traditional pageantry, which has historically maintained rigid gender divisions.
Not all reactions have been positive, however, as some commenters have questioned his eligibility for a male competition. Despite the mixed reception, many have come to Rabello’s defense.
The selection of Rabello represents a shift in the traditionally conservative world of beauty pageants in Brazil, a country known for its vibrant and influential pageant culture.
The Mister Brasil competition, scheduled for 2025, will likely draw significant attention as Rabello competes alongside cisgender male contestants for the national title.
This development follows similar milestones in pageantry worldwide, reflecting broader social changes and recognition of transgender individuals across various platforms and industries.
