In the late 2000s and early 2010s, Evan Centopani was one of the most popular characters in the IFBB Pro League. Many people in bodybuilding at the time saw him as a big star of the future. With titles like the New York Pro and Tampa Pro under his belt, it seemed like he would live up to those predictions. However, injuries have been piling up, and the Connecticut native has not been in a competitive role on a pro stage since 2016. This left many fans wondering if he called it a career. Centopani told Dennis James on a recent episode of The Menace Podcast that he's not quite into closing that door yet, but it was on his mind.
"I'm always training, at least so far, I don't feel ready to give it up. It's been a part of my life for so long that it's kind of hardwired," explains Centopani. "It's just part of my routine. It's part of my regimen.”
While he's not ready to officially retire just yet, he's focused on the future, which is why he's working with a group of friends in a new role as financial planners.
"Well, it's a really big corporate rally all over Connecticut, New York, Massachusetts, probably about 800 consulting firms wide," he told James. “But I work in a team of guys, there are only six of us. And one of them is a long time friend of mine and also someone who has taken care of all my stuff for the last 10+ years.”
Centopani was smart enough to plan ahead both financially and with his career aspirations, but he recognizes that not all bodybuilders do the same. In a business where sponsorships and careers can end in an instant, he advises more people should consider their options when it comes to what to do with their money.
"It's something that everyone needs at some point. It's something you need. And a lot of people probably don't take enough time to plan, unfortunately," Centopani shared. He also suggests that a cautious approach when working with someone would be best.
"So you have to work with people that you resonate with, that you think have a similar value system and that they've really taken the time to understand you, right? Your goals and your attitude towards things, your tolerance for risk.”
James and Centopani delve deep into The Ox's career, his journey to recovery from his knee injury and more. Watch every episode of TMP on the Muscle & Fitness YouTube channel. Don't forget to subscribe and follow @themenacepodcast on Instagram.
