Hassan Mostafa The Newest Beast From the Middle East | 2021 New York Pro
Hassan Mostafa The Newest Beast From the Middle East | 2021 New York Pro
Written by Ron Harris
In the August issue of MD, we introduced you to Mahmood Al Durrah, a star on the rise in the 212 division. He is carrying on the proud tradition of elite bodybuilders from Egypt that includes 1983 and 1984 Mr. Olympia runner-up Mohamed Makkawy and Big Ramy, as well as one of the greatest amateurs in the history of our sport, seven-time IFBB World Champion El Shahat Mabrouk. This year, we witness the debut in the pro ranks of 27-year-old Hassan Mostafa, born and raised in Egypt and now residing in what has become the new Mecca for bodybuilding in the eastern world, Kuwait. His first appearance on the pro stage was earlier this season at the Indy Pro, where he placed third behind winner Steve Kuclo and runner-up Akim Williams, beating out some names like Luke Sandoe and Justin Rodriguez along the way. I had my first glimpse of this massive young man at the Tampa Pro. With his tremendous overall thickness, wide structure, round muscle bellies and quads that billowed off the hips like twin zeppelins, I couldn’t help but compare him immediately to Big Ramy. Little did I know they had more in common than simply physical traits. Dexter Jackson fended off a strong challenge from Luke Sandoe to win that show, while Hassan was awarded fifth place. All in attendance were impressed with the package of size and shape this rookie brought to Tampa, and many felt that had his condition been sharper and crisper, he certainly would have fared better, and might have even been the one to push The Blade hardest for the win. Meanwhile, buzz began to build at a fever pitch about Mostafa. Who was this new guy? Where the hell did he come from, and why are we only finding out about him now? I had to get the scoop, with a little translation help from his wife Riham.