Antonio Matkovic

Antonio Matkovic

IFBB Pro

Donja Lastva, Tivat, Montenegro

“Matke”

185 lbs / 84 kg
Contest weight
207 lbs / 94 kg
Off season
5'9" / 175.3 cm
Height
13
Years training

Paraplegic · Spinal Cord Injury · T8–T11 Complete

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Nickname
Matke
Born
April 13, 1993
Birthplace
Tivat, Montenegro
Injured
September 22, 2019
Favourite exercise
Biceps Curls
Trains most
Back

Biography

Antonio Matkovic is a wheelchair bodybuilder from Tivat, Montenegro, whose journey is defined by resilience, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to personal growth. Having trained since 2013, fitness has long been a passion in his life. Following a devastating motorcycle accident in 2019 that resulted in a complete T8–T11 spinal cord injury and paraplegia, Antonio transformed that passion into a purpose, using bodybuilding as a way to rebuild both his body and his mindset.

Driven by the belief that hard work produces results, Antonio has dedicated himself to continuous improvement, earning qualification to compete through the IFBB Pro Wheelchair Bodybuilding points system. His disciplined approach to training and determination to succeed have made him an emerging athlete in the sport, inspiring others to pursue excellence regardless of the challenges they face.

Beyond competition, Antonio is committed to making a positive impact in his community by training individuals with developmental disabilities. He believes fitness has the power to build confidence, independence, and a stronger quality of life for everyone. Away from the gym, he enjoys fishing, a hobby that reflects the patience and focus he brings to every aspect of his life.

Antonio’s story is one of perseverance, proving that life’s greatest setbacks can become the foundation for its greatest achievements. Through bodybuilding, coaching, and leading by example, he continues to inspire others with his message to remain disciplined, embrace adversity, and never give up on their goals.

 

Q&A'S

  • What happened? Why are you in a wheelchair?

    In 2019, I was involved in a motorcycle accident after entering a turn too fast. The front wheel slipped, causing me to lose control and crash into rocks. I fractured my T8, T9, T10, and T11 vertebrae, resulting in a complete spinal cord injury. Because of the injury, I have no sensation or movement below the level of injury and now use a wheelchair.

  • Why did you get started?

    I've always loved training. It began as a hobby, and after my injury, it became an even bigger part of my life.

  • What made you want to compete?

    I believe I can achieve great results, and I wanted to challenge myself by competing against the best.

  • How did you go about doing it?

    I stayed disciplined, trained consistently, focused on improving every day, and committed myself to the process. Step by step, I built the strength and confidence needed to compete.

  • What motivates you?

    Seeing that all the hard work and effort pay off motivates me to keep pushing forward.

  • What suggestions or tips do you have for others?

    Never give up. Stay disciplined, trust the process, and keep working toward your goals no matter what obstacles you face.


Contest history

• IFBB PRO Contest History

2026 Olympia : 7th Place

2026 EMPRO Classic : 2nd Place

2025 Olympia : 6th Place

2025 Arnold Classic South America : 2nd Place


• Earned IFBB Pro Card

2025 Arnold Amateur South America : IFBB Pro Card


• Amateur Contest History

2025 Arnold Amateur South America : 1st Place

2022 IFBB World Bodybuilding Championships : 5th Place

2022 IFBB Cacak : 1st Place

2022 IFBB Jagodina : 1st Place

2022 IFBB National Montenegro Cup : 1st Place


• Other Contest History

2025 Best Athlete - Tivat and Montenegro : 1st Place

2025 Bench Press National Champ : 1st Place

2022 Bench Press Champion National : 1st Place


Contact Antonio Matkovic

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