William Bonac admits his passion for bodybuilding is waning: "It's not like it used to be, there's a lack of brotherhood."

William Bonac, who has been one of the absolute top Open players for more than a decade, recently surprised fans with a candid confession. In a new episode of the UNWRACKED podcast, he revealed that his once unquenchable passion for racing is beginning to wane. Although physically he could go on for years, the mentality of modern bodybuilding discourages him.

"I can't wait to retire."

Bonac, a two-time Arnold Classic champion (2018, 2020) and silver medalist at the 2019 Mr. Olympia, has always been known for his combativeness. But now his outlook on his career has fundamentally changed.

"If you had asked me ten or seven years ago if I wanted to retire, I would have said no way. But if you ask me now, 'William, do you want to quit?', I'd say I can't wait," Bonac confided. "It even moves me when I talk about it. I love bodybuilding, it saved my life."

Although he is 43 years old, he denies that age is behind his feelings. He points to legends like Dexter Jackson, who competed at the top level until he was almost 50.

"I still feel young, hungry and young in spirit. I could easily do this until I'm 60, I don't have to prove anything to anyone. But the way bodybuilding is evolving... my passion and love for it is fading."

The end of the era of brotherhood?

The main reason for Bonac's frustration seems to be the change in interpersonal relations between the riders. According to "The Conqueror", the camaraderie that was typical of earlier eras has disappeared from the sport.

"It's different now. Everyone is so focused on themselves. It's like winning the lottery - everyone is playing for themselves. There's no brotherhood. I just don't see it anymore," Bonac lamented the current state of the scene.

Still active, but with a different focus

Despite these feelings, Bonac is not idle. In 2025, he secured qualification for Mr. Olympia by winning the Detroit Pro, and at the Olympia itself in Las Vegas, he finished 9th in a packed field. In addition to his own training, he's also dedicated to passing on his experience - recently teaming up with Arnold Classic champion Wesley Vissers, for example, to whom he gave tips during a brutal leg workout together.

His words, however, suggest that William Bonac's era on the competition podium may be coming to an inexorable end. Not because he is physically unable to do so, but because the sport he loved is changing before his eyes into something that no longer fulfills him as much.