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.
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.
I've always loved training. It began as a hobby, and after my injury, it became an even bigger part of my life.
I believe I can achieve great results, and I wanted to challenge myself by competing against the best.
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.
Seeing that all the hard work and effort pay off motivates me to keep pushing forward.
Never give up. Stay disciplined, trust the process, and keep working toward your goals no matter what obstacles you face.
• IFBB PRO Contest History
2026 EMPRO Classic : 2nd Place
• Amateur Contest History
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
