REGISTER FOR A SHOW

Marc Monaco Earns Sixth IPL Pro title: Will This Be His Last Dance?

From earning his sixth IPL Pro title to stepping away from competition after many years of dedication, Marc Monaco’s journey in the league is nothing short of iconic. Known for his incredible versatility across divisions—Bodybuilding, Athletic, and Sports Model—Marc has not only graced the stage but also led from the judge’s table and inspired many through his presence on magazine covers and reality television. In this exclusive NATURALMAG interview, Marc shares what his final competition meant to him, the emotions of retirement, and the legacy he hopes to leave behind.

"It was very meaningful to me...felt like coming full circle...so to go out like that—on that stage, at that event—was unforgettable."

NATURALMAG: Marc, congratulations on your sixth Pro title—and your first in Bodybuilding! Let’s start with the obvious: What did that win mean to you?
MARC MONACO: Thank you! It was very meaningful to me. Winning my sixth Pro title, especially in a division I hadn’t yet conquered as a Pro, felt like coming full circle. It was also the last show I prepped for, so to go out like that—on that stage, at that event—was unforgettable.
NATURALMAG: You’ve competed in several IPL divisions over the years. What makes Bodybuilding unique to you, and why was it important to end your competition career there?
MARC: Bodybuilding was my first love in this sport. I started lifting for aesthetics and discipline before I ever even knew about fitness competitions. Ending my career in the Bodybuilding division felt like paying homage to where it all began for me.

"Having my children and Audrey there was grounding and inspiring. Their cheers in the crowd fueled me in ways I can’t describe."

NATURALMAG: This wasn’t just any show—it was the 10-year anniversary event for the IPL. What was the atmosphere like backstage, and did the milestone add weight to your experience?
MARC: Absolutely. The energy backstage was electric. Everyone knew how special the event was, and that added to the camaraderie. I could feel the history and the significance of the moment. It made everything more emotional and memorable.
NATURALMAG: You had your kids and your girlfriend Audrey there supporting you. How much did their presence impact your final prep and your experience on show day?
MARC: It meant the world to me. Prepping for this show was one of the most emotional experiences I’ve had. Having my children and Audrey there was grounding and inspiring. They reminded me of why I started this journey and who I was doing it for. Their cheers in the crowd fueled me in ways I can’t describe.

"It’s definitely bittersweet. I still have that fire and love for the sport, but I know this is the right time."

NATURALMAG: You’ve served as an IPL Head Judge, magazine cover athlete, and even appeared on the league’s reality show, The Real IPL. Looking back, what are some moments that stand out the most?
MARC: There are too many to count! Being a part of The Real IPL was such a cool experience—it gave people a behind-the-scenes look at what we do and the people behind the physiques. Judging gave me a whole new perspective on the sport, and landing magazine covers was something I never thought I’d achieve. Every chapter added something different to my story.
NATURALMAG: Retirement from competition can be bittersweet. How are you feeling now that you’ve officially closed that chapter?
MARC: It’s definitely bittersweet. I still have that fire and love for the sport, but I know this is the right time. I’m proud of what I accomplished, and now I’m excited to pour into others—whether that’s coaching, judging, or just being a mentor in the league.

"The IPL is family to me, and I want to keep giving back to the community that gave me so much."

NATURALMAG: Speaking of that, what does your involvement with the IPL look like moving forward? Are you planning to stay connected?
MARC: Absolutely. I’m not disappearing! I plan to stay involved as a judge, and I’d love to coach some new athletes as well. The IPL is family to me, and I want to keep giving back to the community that gave me so much.
NATURALMAG: You’ve had a long, decorated career—and you’ve inspired a lot of athletes along the way. What does it feel like to know you’ve left that kind of impact?
MARC: It feels great to know that I have made a positive impact on anyone. Being able to accomplish your goals through hard work and receiving recognition are wonderful. But knowing that you have been able to make an impact on others’ lives is even more gratifying. People will forget the titles, the magazines, the shows… but they will never forget the positive impact you had on their lives through your actions, kind words, motivation, etc.

"I want to thank God for allowing me to reach and achieve. This has been an incredible career!"

NATURALMAG: For athletes looking up to you, especially those thinking about stepping on stage for the first time, what message would you pass on?
MARC MONACO: I’ve said this multiple times, but it never gets old and stays true. Never give up on your dreams, and never let anyone discourage you from going for your goals!
NATURALMAG: Lastly… if this is your “last dance,” how do you want to be remembered on that IPL stage? And if it’s not the last—we have to ask—what’s next?
MARC MONACO: First, I want people to remember my final routine (the one in which I turned my routine into the original IPL format of the T-walk)! I hope that sticks! But I really hope people remember that I am just a regular guy that worked hard, and through that hard work I was able to achieve a lot within the league. My goal was always to improve and come back better! I hated to lose, but it always drove me to work harder and bring a better physique the next competition. And most importantly, I always stayed true. I never let success change me, and that’s what it’s all about for me.
     This was my final dance. But I will always be loyal to the IPL, and will continue to serve as Head Judge and support several other projects that arise! I’m also excited to help other athletes in their fitness journeys through coaching. I want to thank the IPL, Ben Yosef, and everyone that has had an impact on me through my journey. I want to thank God for allowing me to reach and achieve. This has been an incredible career! NATURALMAG

Share this post:

NATURALMAG

More Marc Monaco

More From NATURALMAG Summer 2025 Issue

More IPL Men's Bodybuilding

More From NATURALMAG

New IPL Shape Pro Shelica Jackson Lands Cover Of NATURALMAG

“First and foremost, I’d like to give honor and thanks to God. Without Him, none of this would be possible. When I started my bodybuilding journey in 2022, my goal was just to go Pro. Becoming a Pro AND being featured on the cover of NATURALMAG is proof that His plan for me was bigger than my goals.“

Read More »
BACK TO THE TOP
Tagged ,
  • competeipl.com
Instagram Youtube