Written by Team MD
28 July 2013

2013 NPC USA Final Report

Max Charles - 2013 Mr. USA

 

13usa-winnersThe 2013 NPC USA's have come and gone. While this wasn't a show said to be stacked with talent, it was, after all, the USA's and a prestigious title to attain. Max Charles, while not possessing a pro-quality physique just yet, emerged as the brand new Mr. USA. As said to Shawn Ray in his post-show interview for Muscular Development, he has his sites set on the 2014 New York Pro.

13usa-maxSuper Heavyweight
There were quite a few guys with good mass and good frames in the Super Heavyweight class, but no one took their their physique to the shredded-to-the-bone level we're accustomed to seeing, but there were a few standouts nonetheless. Dusty Hanshaw and Blair Mone had both made noticeable improvements since their last time on stage, and will no doubt earn pro cards one day. But it was Eduardo Bracamontes who came the closest to giving Max a run for his money. Eduardo had a great look, but his condition just didn't match-up with Max's deeper cuts and separations.
Heavyweight
There was no doubt that Rafael Jaramillo would win the Heavyweight Class from the moment he walked out on stage, and many had him pegged as the overall champ after prejudging. However, when all the overalls were lined up in comparison, Max's superior structure edged him out. Facially, many were heard saying he reminded them of Kevin Levrone, and he did strike a few similar poses as the IFBB Hall of Famer.
Light Heavyweight
Kevin Ofurum nabbed the Light Heavyweight title. He was not the athlete with the best condition in the class, but he was the one with the best combination of size, symmetry, and good genetics. He'll need to make some improvements to his physique to do well in the pro circuit, but in Vegas, it was enough.
Middleweight
The Middleweight Class proved to be one of the better battles of the evening. All of the top five athletes were in good condition, and no one would have complained had the results gone in many different directions. In the end, it came down to a battle between Breon Ansley and Chuck Williams. Breon would go on the edge Chuck out, but a case could be made for either man.
Welterweight
The Welterweight Class was also one of the better battles of the night. Two long-term competitors were the last two men standing, both deserving of an IFBB Pro Card - Victor Del Campo and Danny Hester. Danny just could not match the condition of Victor, who came in in the condition of a lifetime. Danny's been around for years, so there's no doubt he'll be back.
Lightweight
Derek Leverant in the Lightweight Class was a surprise of the evening. Simply put, he was a tank. He looked like he could easily have been up a class or even two in size. He was simply unbeatable here.
Bantamweight
Richie Langit took the Bantamweight Class. Second place competitor Eric Yamashita, with a shorter and thicker build, gave him a good run for his money. Richie just had the better structure to work with.
13usa-overallThe Rest of the Story
In female bodybuilding, many expected Shannon Courtney to win the overall title. At only 21 years of age, she possesses an amazing amount of muscle and great condition to boot. However, heavyweight competitor Margie Martin's sheer size proved to be no match for her. On the bright side for Shannon, she still earned her IFBB Pro Card here.

Xavius Gayden and Maria Rita Penteado took the overall titles in Men's and Women's Physique. Xavius had tremendous stage presence and a great shoulder-to-waist ratio that will help him stand out in any line-up. Maria Rita did a good job fitting the defined look of Women's Physique. She's not too muscular, but doesn't look like a figure girl either. She'll be one to watch this year.

Latorya Watts and Hunnika Villa took the overall figure and bikini titles. Latorya has a small waist coupled great shoulders. She looks like she could step on any pro stage now and give the veterans a run for their money. Hunnika is tiny and appears extremely comfortable on stage. No doubt we'll see both of these ladies on a pro stage in the not-so-distant future.

Be sure to check out all of Team MD's coverage of the 2013 NPC USA's by using the links below: