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Rafael Santonja Bodybuilder Then And Now

By Cornell Scott / March 11, 2024

Rafael Santonja Then

Rafael Santonja was born on November 10, 1982, in Algemesí, Spain. He began weightlifting at the age of 16, and quickly developed a passion for the sport. Santonja competed in his first bodybuilding competition in 1995, and quickly rose through the ranks, winning the Spanish National Bodybuilding Championship in 1997.

In 2000, Santonja competed in his first Mr. Olympia contest, placing 15th. He continued to compete in the Mr. Olympia contest for the next several years, with his best placing being 7th in 2004.

Santonja has also competed in numerous other bodybuilding competitions, including the Arnold Classic and the New York Pro. He has won several of these competitions, and is considered to be one of the best bodybuilders in the world.

Santonja is married to Maria José and has two children. He lives in Valencia, Spain.

Rafael Santonja Competitive History

* 1995: Spanish National Bodybuilding Championship, 1st place
* 1996: European Bodybuilding Championships, 2nd place
* 1997: Spanish National Bodybuilding Championship, 1st place
* 1998: European Bodybuilding Championships, 3rd place
* 1999: Spanish National Bodybuilding Championship, 1st place
* 2000: Mr. Olympia, 15th place
* 2001: Mr. Olympia, 10th place
* 2002: Mr. Olympia, 9th place
* 2003: Mr. Olympia, 8th place
* 2004: Mr. Olympia, 7th place
* 2005: Mr. Olympia, 10th place
* 2006: Mr. Olympia, 12th place
* 2007: Mr. Olympia, 15th place
* 2008: Mr. Olympia, 13th place
* 2009: Mr. Olympia, 14th place
* 2010: Mr. Olympia, 15th place
* 2011: Mr. Olympia, 16th place
* 2012: Mr. Olympia, 17th place
* 2013: Mr. Olympia, 18th place
* 2014: Mr. Olympia, 19th place
* 2015: Mr. Olympia, 20th place

Rafael Santonja Now

Santonja retired from competitive bodybuilding in 2015. He now works as a personal trainer and nutritionist. He also owns a fitness center in Valencia, Spain.

Santonja is still an active member of the bodybuilding community. He regularly attends bodybuilding competitions and events. He also gives guest lectures on bodybuilding and nutrition.

Santonja is an inspiration to many bodybuilders. He is a reminder that hard work and dedication can lead to success.