The Empro Classic crowned two impressive champions in the Women’s Physique and Women’s Bodybuilding divisions as Julia Cabarcos and Martina Lopez delivered standout performances to secure victories and further elevate their status within the IFBB Pro League.
Julia Claims First Pro Victory and Olympia Qualification
Julia Cabarcos needed just two professional appearances to make her mark on the IFBB Pro League, capturing the Women’s Physique title at the Empro Classic and securing a coveted qualification for the 2026 Olympia.
Competing in only her second Pro show, Julia showcased a polished physique that combined balance, muscularity, and stage presence to overcome a highly competitive field. Her victory is made even more impressive considering the calibre of athlete she defeated.
Many had tipped American Susan Mathison as the athlete to beat heading into the contest. Susan arrived in Spain carrying excellent momentum after recording second and third-place finishes in her previous two outings and was widely regarded as the favourite for the title. However, Julia rose to the occasion, presenting a championship-winning package that ultimately earned her a unanimous nod from the judges.
The victory not only delivers the first professional win of her career but also guarantees her place on bodybuilding’s biggest stage later this year in Las Vegas. For an athlete so early in her professional journey, it represents a breakthrough moment that could signal the beginning of an exciting future in the division.
Completing the podium was Spain’s Silvi Cuartero, who secured third place in front of the home crowd with another strong performance.
Martina Successfully Defends Women’s Bodybuilding Crown
In the Women’s Bodybuilding division, defending champion Martina Lopez proved once again why she remains one of the category’s most dangerous competitors, successfully retaining her Empro Classic title with an outstanding display.
Martina arrived in Spain looking every bit the reigning champion and delivered one of her strongest packages to date. Combining impressive muscle maturity, conditioning, and overall presentation, she controlled the contest from the outset and successfully defended the title she won twelve months earlier.
The victory marks the second professional win of Martina’s career in just seven IFBB Pro League appearances, underlining her consistency and ability to perform when the stakes are highest.
Pushing her throughout the contest was Russia’s Anastasia Leonova, who continued her impressive professional career with a runner-up finish. Anastasia entered the show with two victories from only four professional contests and once again demonstrated why she is considered one of the division’s brightest talents. Her physique brought a formidable challenge to Martina, creating a compelling battle between two athletes who have already established themselves as legitimate contenders on the international stage.
While Anastasia impressed, Lopez’s complete package and championship composure proved decisive, allowing her to successfully defend her crown and add another significant title to her growing résumé.
As the Empro Classic concluded, both Julia and Martina left Spain with career-defining achievements. For Cabarcos, it was a breakthrough victory and Olympia qualification in only her second Pro appearance. For Martina, it was confirmation that her reign at the Empro Classic remains firmly intact as she continues to build momentum among the elite women of professional bodybuilding.
