SHAH ALAM - After almost a decade out of the spotlight, bodybuilder Sazali Samad has staged an impressive return to the bodybuilding world.
Determined to restore his legacy, Sazali underwent significant physical and mental change.
The 10-time Mr Universe champion is set to participate in the Nabba Universe 2023 tournament in the United Kingdom shortly.
In an interview with Sinar Daily, Sazali mentioned that he and his team have trained intensively for the past three months.
"With my preparations for the past three months, I will do my best.
"The training is more intensive now, with just few days left for the competition," he said.
In 2015, Sazali faced a setback when the Disciplinary and Anti-Doping Committee of the Malaysian Bodybuilding Federation (MBBF) suspended him for four years due to a failed doping test by the Malaysian Anti-Doping Agency (Adamas).
His situation worsened in 2018 when he received an additional four-year ban after participating in the China Sports Show Fearless Bodybuilding Physique and Bikini Championship in Shanghai.
Yet, adversity didn't deter Sazali.
"Despite my eight-year suspension, my passion for bodybuilding remains undiminished.
"Even after the suspension, my soul is still motivated to advance this bodybuilding sport," he said.
Joining Sazali at the Nabba Universe 2023 is Dr Aiesha Asmadi, a medical fitness consultant and two-time breast cancer survivor.
The competition is slated for Oct 28 in the United Kingdom.