[Lineski]

I posted this email I got back in the Competitors List Thread in the Colorado Pro Board but I figured more guys would see it out here. I was curious when I saw Richard on the competitors list so I decided to email him and ask him myself because I'm sure I'm not the only one wanting to know. Here was his very prompt response (only about 10 minutes later ):

Hey Joe,

Thanks for writing. To answer your question....

I haven't decided on what I'm going to as far as bodybuilding is concerned. I am
rigorously trying to finish my MBA then I'm trying to get into USC School of Law
this fall. Most of my time is consumed with school and work. However, I love and
miss competing dearly. But I must secure my future by educating myself to the
fullest. As you know, there isn't much money in bodybuilding and very, very few
ever get a chance to comfortably retire.

Hopefully, I'll be back on stage sooner than later. But NO! I am NOT preparing
for the Colorado nor will I be able to attend.

Best Wishes!

Sincerely,

Richard Jones

So unfortunately even though he's not coming back at this show or anytime soon, he's keeping himself busy and he's looking ahead to what looks like a very promising future; even if it is off the stage. I'm sure we'd all like to see him take the stage again but even though it's not going to happen soon I'm wishing the very best to this humble, kind, and personable athlete.

[Rocky]

That's an awesome sign of his personality and credit to him for replying so promptly. Shame though but a man's gotta do what a man's gotta do. Look after his future! Hope to see him back soon though!

[Pain]

Very smart move. I hope to see him compete again though.

[Q80_MuscleHed]

good luck to him .. i hope he come back with full package and aesthitics look

[BigBen]

The smartest way to go man. Education comes first!

[Q80_MuscleHed]

did u guys read about BBing and low money in Jones letter ?? .. that's very sad to hear this fact from a pro .. it means that all pros are paying for comepeting and getting nothing .. why the IFBB doing that for these athletes .. they're sacrificing a lot just to do what they always love to which is the sport of BBing

[Sarpzilla]

yeah dude is really humble

[fLesh23]

thats crazy, i actually emailed him the other day asking if he was planning on competing anytime soon or what his future plans were... he was def. my fav bodybuilder, amazing physique. i watch BFTO 04 of him in the beginning like 2038520332 times

[insano]

im sure that many BB will want to join the PDI because of the lack of money in the IFBB. Shame that athletes of such a high calibre cant make money doing what they love. Whilst a golfer takes a swing or two and gets millions

[bombdigity510]

wow usc best of luck to richard

[EneMy@fSelf]

Best of luck to him... very smart guy, hes has his priority set down right.

[cem]

best of luk to him n lookin forward to seeing him on a stage in the future if he does compete again.

[bodyripped]

hes a really smart go! thats good proving that bodybuilders rnt all muscle ehads that r stupid

[philosopher]

Smart move. Education comes first indeed. best of luck

[ruel]

good for him.. study first. he is securing his future! thats wonderful!

[big04pimpin]

You should email this thread back to him so he can see what his fans think of him. I know I would want to see it.

[robcardu]

Good for him.........

[The Adam]

I wish him the best of luck. Dude has a great physique, but a USC education would be my priority too. In fact, I might just be seeing him on campus. Seeing this just put things in perspective for myself, cause this day job is paying peanuts--and I'm smarter than that.

[Pain]

Richard Jones made the right choice... bbing doesnt offer much unless you are in the top 5 in every contest.

I do hope to see him on stage again soon and maybe a training video.

[chadcruz]

That's really cool to see his reply. Thanks Lineski. I agree with most of the other comments, he seems very humble and also very realistic which I think a lot of other bodybuilders should consider also.

[Q80_MuscleHed]

yeah .. i think he's very humble by looking to his part in BFTO 2004 .. good luck Richared