IFBB Pro Bodybuilder Markus Ruhl disclosed to several industry insiders, over Olympia Weekend, that he is retiring from bodybuilding competition effective immediately. Markus Ruhl's massive physique introduced the mass era of contemporary competitive bodybuilding. His retirement along with the retirement of Eight time Mr. Olympia Ronnie Coleman have led to speculation that this era is nearing an end. But his "freakish" physique was very popular as evidenced by his huge fan base around the world. He plans to focus his time and energy on the pursuit of numerouse business opportunities including the opening of a second gym in Germany.