Tag: 2023 Mr. olympia
Chris Cormier & Olympia Judge Talk Jeremy Buendia, Brandon Hendrickson vs. Erin Banks at 2023 Olympia
As the bodybuilding season marches forward, athletes are gearing up for the biggest show of the year, 2023 Mr. Olympia in November. In a recent Prime Time Muscle show, Chris Cormier and Terrick El Guindy examined some of the rivalries front and center in the Men’s Physique category, all of which feature the reigning Olympia winner, Erin Banks.
The Men’s Physique division has existed for around 10 years and in that time, athletes have evolved to display the best beach bodies possible. In 2013, Mark Anthony Wingson made history when he became the first-ever Men’s Physique Olympia champion. His victory served as a standard for the division at the time and offered his rivals a clear vision of the ideal physique needed to claim gold.
The intensity of the category only grew in the years to follow. Jeremy Buendia established himself as the reigning champion for four years, from 2014-2017. While there have been talks of his comeback in the past, he’s now formally committed in 2023. He’s shared bulking diets, training sessions, and physique goals ahead of his latest venture.
Before Erin Banks won the recent 2022 Men’s Physique Olympia title, Brandon Hendrickson proved himself as one of the best in the division. He became a three-time champion (2018, 2020, 2021), and like Buendia, hopes to knock Banks off the throne in a few months. With such a competitive group of talent, Cormier and El Guindy took a closer look at some of the top contenders expected to compete in November.
Terrick El Guindy Discusses Diogo Montenegro Accusing Erin Banks of ‘Suspect Shoulders’
According to El Guindy, Diogo Montenegro accused Erin Banks of having ‘suspect’ shoulders because there are no striations or separations in the muscle like his.
“Some guys they don’t like each other. That’s the part of the sport. These guys, they hate each other. Oh Terrick don’t use the word hate, well, that’s how they feel about each other. Diogo Montenegro was very specific in Portuguese because I speak the language and he says, ‘My shoulder has separation, my shoulder has striations when I’m really defined, you don’t get to see that on Erin Banks.
You know, making an assumption that Erin Banks shoulders are somehow suspect or present some type of imbalance. That did not go well with Erin Banks. Erin Banks is a cool collected guy. He’s a family guy. If you come his way, he’s from Fresno. They don’t play. He’s like, ‘You can say whatever you want to me, but be ready for the counter attack’ He went after Diogo, he said, ‘You’re a little man with five abs five little blocks,’ you know,” Terrick El Guindy shared.
El Guidy said the online beef reminded him of when Andre Ferguson and Brandon Hendrickson promised a scuffle in Orlando a few years ago.
“Things are getting hairy here. Remember, when we had Andre Ferguson and Brandon Hendrickson they were going to scramble in Orlando a few years ago. Everybody had their board shorts rolling, like, ‘Oh this is going to happen,” El Guindy added.
Chris Cormier & Olympia Judge Talk Jeremy Buendia, Brandon Hendrickson, Erin Banks Rivalries Before 2023 Olympia
After El Guindy explained that Banks blocks people online such as Buendia, Chris Cormier suggested that it probably wasn’t personal.
“He had arguments with Jeremy Buendia, he blocked Jeremy Buendia. Then, I think he [Erin Banks] blocked some other guys. If you come to his social media and you don’t like him, he blocks everybody. I mean, it’s his social media he does whatever he wants but that’s his strategy.”
“It’s competition and I’m sure a lot of it is not totally personal. I just – I don’t know, I like going back and forth. It fueled me to look even better than I probably would have if I different have some kind of edge or some type of chip on my shoulder getting ready for a show. I wanted it. I invited it,” said Chris Cormier.
Cormier said back when he competed, those who talked trash to Flex Wheeler would receive a ‘personal block’ since social media didn’t exist then.
“I would probably have to [trash talk] go with Flex Wheeler. Because just knowing him so well, I know what buttons to push and what buttons to not push, and just like we would go into the posing room together, myself, him – Rico McClinton, and Flex, I mean we’d be in there till we’re falling asleep in between. But we knew if you said one thing negative to Flex, he would at that time defriend you or do a personal block on you back in the day, he wouldn’t talk to you for a few weeks,” said Cormier.
Given Hendrickson’s history on top, El Guindy believes he has the potential to upset Banks at the 2023 Mr. Olympia. He said he felt a lot of tension between the two Men’s Physique competitors during an Olympia TV live show.
“We might have a shake-up. You never know, Brandon Hendrickson, don’t discount the champion. A lot of times people place second place and guys start talking about new guys, he can come back and he can regain that title. Him and Erin Banks, they dislike each other to the max. There wouldn’t be anything more perfect for Brandon Hendrickson to be the last man standing and to take that trophy from the heart of Erin Banks,” said Terrick El Guindy.
“I did a live with them and there’s a lot of tension between those two guys.”
Even though Jeremy Buendia has proven himself as an elite champion, Cormier said he’s facing a very ‘steep hill’ because his peers, Hendrickson, and Banks, have been competing consistently as of late.
“He’s put on a lot of muscle. I just hope it’s going to turn out right because these guys have actually been competing and he’s actually not been competing,” said Cormier. “I didn’t say he couldn’t make an impact. I’m saying it’s a steep hill to climb when things guys have been competing. I said he’s going to have a steep hill to climb when these guys have been competing competing competing,” shared Cormier.
In the past, Erin Banks and Buendia have gone at it in a heated Olympia TV interview. Banks argued that the category had moved on and evolved since Jeremy’s time in the sport. However, Buendia took issue with Banks lacking respect for champions who paved the path he now walks on.
The IFBB Pro League announced a new height/weight cap restriction for the Men’s Physique division. Following the 2023 Olympia event, the new regulations will go into effect. In an appearance on an NPC News Online YouTube video, IFBB Vice President Tyler Manion laid out why the changes are being implemented. Most importantly, it’s to keep competitors from retaining too much size.
While some in the community such as Dave Palumbo believe the changes would discourage Men’s Physique talent from training legs, Bob Cicherillo disagrees. In a recent Voice of Bodybuilding Podcast, the event announcer explained that ignoring leg training would result in an imbalanced physique despite legs not being a part of the judging criteria.
The rapid growth of the Men’s Physique division has made it one of the most talked about events on the Mr. Olympia schedule. With Erin Banks at the center of at least three rivalries, fans are looking forward to seeing how he fares in what could be his first title defense.
RELATED: 4x Physique Champion Jeremy Buendia Gives Tips For Rear Delts
You can watch the full video below from the Olympia TV YouTube channel:
Published: 15 June, 2023 | 11:43 AM EDT
Derek Lunsford Reflects on Battling Anxiety, Depression & Talks 2023 Mr. Olympia Prep
Rising Men’s Open star Derek Lunsford is itching to end his off-season for contest prep. In a recent The Truth Podcast with Hany Rambod, Lunsford discussed his game plan for 2023 Mr. Olympia, improvements, and dealing with anxiety/depression. Last year, Lunsford found himself in a unique position at the Pittsburgh Pro. After Mamdouh ‘Big Ramy’ Elssbiay was unable to fulfill a guest posing obligation, Lunsford took his place. Sharing the stage with Nick Walker, Quinton Eriya, Hunter Labrada, and Brandon Curry, Lunsford shocked the world, as he held his own against Open talent despite his status as a 212 competitor. Eventually, Lunsford would receive a special invitation to compete in the Open division at Mr. Olympia. While some in the sport thought he should have earned his invitation, Lunsford made the most of his Open class debut. He finished runner-up to Hadi Choopan, while Ramy fell to fifth place in a surprising turn of events.
Derek Lunsford decided to prioritize improvements instead of participating in the 2023 Arnold Classic won by Samson Dauda. In May, Derek got the chance to stand next to him and a star-studded lineup at Jim Manion’s Pittsburgh Pro. Given Lunsford’s condition at the Pittsburgh Pro guest posing, fans expect his best physique yet in a few months.
Derek Lunsford Joins Hany Rambod to Discuss 2023 Mr. Olympia Prep
According to Rambod, Derek’s preparations intensify 10-12 weeks before Mr. Olympia.
“Usually about 10 or 12 weeks out we try to shut it down. So, we’re far enough out, we have plenty of time. But I think what he’s alluding to is the fact that he’s been so busy, when you’re out constantly, even in the off-season, it’s hard to even get all the meals in because you’re traveling, all of the rest in because you’re traveling, to get all of the really good high-level workouts in because you’re using gyms that are probably not accustomed to,” said Rambod.
Lunsford says ‘training is good’ and mentioned that he’s made improvements since the 2022 Mr. Olympia show. He’s excited to ramp up his training efforts on the horizon.
“Things are good right now, training is good. I’ve made solid improvements since the Olympia, but I really want to get into my own routine at home, my own gym, and be able to just crank up the training over these next couple of months, for sure,” Derek Lunsford shared.
Lunsford on Dealing with Anxiety & Depression: ‘Mine Comes From Me Feeling Like I’m Not Doing Enough’
Admittedly, Lunsford said he was in a ‘dark place’ after slipping placings during his time competing at Olympia in the 212.
“It was not purposeful, like God I don’t need you. But you just think you need to take control and do it yourself. Then you realize one day, you just wake up and you’re like, ‘Man, this just ins’t working out.’ I don’t know why. I’m doing everything – I feel like I’m doing everything right, I’m working really hard but it’s not panning out, I feel like I’m going backward if anything. There was a point in my life where I was in such a dark place man. So depressed that it was to the point that I literally didn’t even want to be here anymore,” said Lunsford. “Yeah [when I was sliding backwards in placings at Olympia]. It wasn’t just the placings, I thought it was the placings at the time but it was really just how I viewed myself. I just kind of started realizing like, ‘Oh, man. I’m not the person that I truly want to be.’ I want to be one person I say I’m one person but I’m acting in a different way. I don’t like it. And I want to truly live my life better.”
After talking about his experiences with depression, Lunsford gave his take on dealing with anxiety. He said finding balance, working hard, and pushing forward has helped him deal with the setback.
“You can disconnect. Anxiety can come from different places, right? I think even if you can disconnect from the comments or comparing yourself to somebody else in your position or whatever, I think myself for example, when we were talking the other day on the phone. My anxiety has sometimes come from me feeling like I’m not doing enough. Whether it’s I’m not training enough or I’m not putting up enough numbers in the gym or okay, I’m not posting enough or I’m not going here, there, or everywhere enough. I’m not making enough calls or just whatever it is that I’m trying to accomplish that good isn’t good enough kind of mentality. It can drive you far in life but also, if it’s really affecting you mentally, it can also hold you back at times too,” Lunsford said.
Lunsford shared a prior conversation with Rambod that made him realize that his personal life, business life, and bodybuilding life needed more balance.
“We were talking on the phone the other day about finding balance in all of this, working hard and pushing forward but also being able to have this sort of calmness and patience along the way,” Lunsford said. “Actually it’s funny, Hany called me what was it like two months ago? You were like, ‘Hey how are things going?’ And I’m like, ‘Everything is good.’ He could tell I was worked up about what we just talked about the business stuff and the bodybuilding, he goes, ‘How’s life at home?’ I tell him, ‘Well, to be honest if I’m 100% honest, I put that on the backburner a little bit.’ He goes, ‘Hey man, you have to get your crap together. He told me to go on vacation.”
Fans and bodybuilding veterans alike have voiced their opinions on possible frontrunners for the 2023 Mr. Olympia event. In light of Dauda’s latest win in Ohio, event announcer Bob Cicherillo labeled ‘The Nigerian Lion’ and Derek Lunsford as equal threats to Choopan’s title. Meanwhile, 2022 Olympia third-place finisher Nick Walker is ready to make a statement after taking runner-up to Dauda at the recent Arnold Classic. Looking ahead, Walker has made it clear he believes the 2023 Olympia show will be decided between himself and Lunsford. Considering how close Lunsford came to earning the title last year, fans look forward to seeing him stand against his teammate Choopan once again. In the months to come, Derek plans to travel less in order to dial in preparations for the 2023 Mr. Olympia in November.
You can watch the full video from Hany Rambod’s Youtube channel below:
Published: 13 June, 2023 | 2:11 PM EDT
‘Good Vito’ Vitaliy Ugolnikov Looking Massive 14 Weeks from 2023 European Pro Championships
‘Good Vito’ Vitaliy Ugolnikov is determined to step on the 2023 Mr. Olympia stage this November. In a recent Instagram post, Ugolnikov revealed a massive and ripped physique update 14 weeks from his next competition.
Rising bodybuilding star Good Vito is the latest athlete to shake up the IFBB Pro League Men’s Open division. Similar to Michal Krizo, Vito made the switch to the NPC from the IFBB Elite Pro League last year. He wasted no time before stepping on stage. He earned his IFBB pro card at the 2022 Musclecontest International Brazil Nationals.
Ugolnikov possesses an excellent v-taper despite having a significant level of muscle mass. His physique continues to do the rounds online as many have called attention to his huge quads and popping biceps. Given his consistent updates, fans have labeled him a wild card in the sport’s most popular category.
The 2023 Mr. Olympia competition is set to take place in Orlando, Florida from Nov. 2-5. If Good Vito proves to be successful in 14 weeks at the European Pro Championships, he’ll have the chance to make his debut at the prestigious event.
Good Vito Looking 3D and Ripped in Latest Posing Update 14 Weeks from Show
With his next contest approaching, Ugolnikov gave fans a progress video where he showcased a number of different poses.
“Thank you @oficialjorlanvieira, for your time and your help with the poses. 14 weeks to the championship. Thank you @ironberg_ct and @betao_iron for helping to form a better team” Good Vito wrote.
Despite having yet to compete in an IFBB pro show, Good Vito received considerable hype heading into his new league. In a recent Olympia TV video, bodybuilding veteran Chris Cormier and IFBB judge Terrick El Guindy discussed some of the Open’s top prospects. Among them was Ugolnikov. Given his young age and high ceiling in the sport, Cormier believes Good Vito will cause problems in the category. He highlighted the standout’s flaring quads and impressive back.
A few years ago, Ugolnikov was under fire from fans after being accused of photoshopping his images online. While fans thought he modified pictures to make himself look bigger, Good Vito vehemently denied the allegations. He shared a video of his physique to prove the picture-editing claims were false.
RELATED: ‘Good Vito’ Vitaliy Ugolnikov Shows Enormous Guns In Physique Update
Should Good Vito pick up the victory in Spain, he’ll earn his ticket to compete on stage with the world’s best later this year. All roads lead to the 2023 Mr. Olympia title currently held by the newly crowned champ, Hadi Choopan.
Published: 13 June, 2023 | 11:20 AM EDT
Big Ramy Discusses Mental State Ahead of 2023 Mr. Olympia: ‘I Can’t Take a Year Off, I Need to Give It Everything”
Mamdouh ‘Big Ramy’ Elssbiay looks to be in a good place ahead of his probable comeback to the 2023 Mr. Olympia stage. In a recent The Menace Podcast, Ramy discussed a range of topics including his ambitions to improve, his relationship with fans, and the mentality he’s adopted in the lead-up to November.
Elssbiay reached the pinnacle of the sport, having claimed back-to-back Mr. Olympia victories in 2020 and 2021. Last year, he put his title on the line against a fierce roster of bodybuilders. Ramy was dethroned by Hadi Choopan, who defeated Derek Lunsford in a close show.
After dropping to fifth at 2022 Olympia, fans, and even some bodybuilders argued that Ramy wasn’t given a fair look on stage. Steve Weinberger, who served as the head judge of the prestigious contest, suspected that Ramy was plagued by injuries as many observed issues with his lats, triceps, and lower back.
The former two-time champ made a quick turnaround at the 2023 Arnold Classic. Given the show’s proximity to December’s Mr. Olympia, many fans were impressed by Ramy’s ability to improve. However, the judges saw him in fourth.
At the end of May, Weinberger joined Dennis James to discuss the Egyptian’s future. He made it clear he thought Big Ramy needed a break from competition. This sentiment was also shared by Bob Cicherillo, who insists Ramy needs time to revitalize the body parts preventing him from placing higher.
Big Ramy Takes Aim at Oppinionated Fans, Talks 2023 Ambitions: ‘I Can’t Take a Year Off’
As of late, Ramy noticed fans online can’t make up their minds about his physique.
“I respect everyone but what’s the meaning of someone is saying something is wrong when they’re talking about something they’ve never [done]. Sometimes they say okay, Ramy is too big, and second day they say Ramy is small. I don’t know what, am I big or am I small?” asks Ramy.
“Every day, someone says Ramy comes too big and second day they say Ramy is too small, not like before. Before when Ramy was big you say he must come small, then when he’s smaller, he must come bigger than before. Be honest guys.”
While he appreciated Steve Weinberger’s criticisms, Ramy doesn’t plan on waiting one year to compete again.
“Yeah, you come from that place, but okay. Dennis knows that because he’s close to me. You know how I respect Steve. First show, him in New York and he’s always nice to me. But the problem, it’s important to give people support to compete. I feel bad when somebody tells me you have to stop. The only thing you can tell someone competing is yeah, you can do it.”
“Maybe that [a break] is the best thing for me. But I’m still finding my head to compete, not today not tomorrow. I can’t wait for one year,” added Ramy.
Before moving on, Sarcev underlined that Ramy should decide his own destiny.
“Ramy, don’t ever let anybody tell you not to compete. You are the only one that chooses if you want. What is your profession? You’re a pro bodybuilder and you’re passionate about this and you want to compete, you’re healthy, your blood results are perfect,” said Milos Sarcev.
Ramy Talks ‘Weak Points, 2023 Mr. Olympia, and Fans Calling for Him to Take a Break
Ramy believes coming in flat has caused some of his body parts like his triceps to appear diminished.
“When you come so flat, you’re weak points, they go up. And when you’re full, you never had that. I will tell you what happened actually between Olympia and the Arnold. I think like two or three weeks off because I needed to think about what I needed to do.”
“Yes we talked about that, with Chad, we scared to get too much flat because we know everyone know when you get smaller, the weak points come. It’s my week, I don’t have all things complete,” said Ramy. “We’ve talked about the triceps, I’ve lost a lot of size from my triceps. But the shape for my body has not changed.”
“In my opinion, and I respect all the competitors but I believe I had some of the best arms on the stage. They’re not small. My side chest is not smaller than my shoulder. It should look nice, maybe it’s not too big, but it’s not small like it’s thinning, no.”
Sarcev called Big Ramy a ‘shapely monster’ and said his lower lat insertions are holding him back on stage.
“When Ramy said, okay, Ramy you said Arnold Classic was your best ever. I think you improved dramatically from the Olympia to the Arnold. I’ve seen you a couple of times when you won Olympia, 2020, 2017, even in 2013 with Dennis when you guys did the New York Pro, ’14, yeeh, that’s formidable. You are one of a kind. You are a shapely monster. You are an x-framed, v-tapered monster.
“At Arnold on stage, I was 307. And when I saw it I was scared, it never happened to me,” added Ramy. “I think 282 [pounds for 2022 Mr. Olympia].”
The only issue that could penalize you is that lower lat insertions and it improved at the Arnold Classic really. Whatever you did, it’s going lower, it’s a big improvement. I don’t know if it’s stem cells,” Milos Sarcev shared.
“If Ramy goes flat, he loses some parts right away,” said Dennis James.
Despite the setbacks, Ramy is treating 2023 Mr. Olympia like his first show, and plans to “give it everything.”
“I’m still the guy, I’m still firing to compete tomorrow, it’s like my first show I need to give it everything,” said Big Ramy.
“Fix the issues, if you can fix the issues, go back and be at your best, says Dennis James.
Ramy said he doesn’t care if he’s in first place or 20th, as long as he shows the world he can make improvements.
“I will train. He asked me if I will compete in 2023, I said I will train and if I make myself big and grow, I will compete in Olympia. If I’m not, it will be next show, I will need to come have a big improvement. I still feel like I can do that. I need to say one more thing.
I’m 10 years right now in professional [bodybuilding] I competed with a lot of guys, I respect a lot of them all this time. I try to be a good person, nice person. I try. I make a lot of mistakes because I’m a human. I try to make the best for me all the time. I never hate anyone,” said Big Ramy.
“I don’t like to be number one. I came to Arnold and when you asked me Dennis about it, I said I’m happy because I improved. That’s my message. I come to Columbia this year [for stem cells] I’ll try to compete this year and make big improvements. I don’t care if I’m Mr. Olympia or number 20, I need to come better because that’s my message.”
This wasn’t Big Ramy’s first update regarding the 2023 Mr. Olympia competition. The last time he opened up on the matter, the former champion shared that he was training angry and motivated to make a successful comeback.
Ramy’s plans are still materializing, but he appears fired up to make a return. Despite ongoing talks about him taking a break, he appears energized to prove the naysayers wrong at 2023 Mr. Olympia this November.
You can watch the full podcast from the Muscle and Fitness YouTube channel below:
Published: 12 June, 2023 | 1:27 PM EDT
IFBB VP Tyler Manion Reveals New Height and Weight Restriction Rules for Men’s Physique Division
The Men’s Physique category will undergo major changes in 2023. In a recent NPC News Online YouTube video, NPC & IFBB Professional League Vice-President Tyler Manion announced a new height and weight cap restriction for Men’s Physique, effective at the first contest following the 2023 Mr. Olympia. It should be noted that this rule only applies to Pro Men’s Physique competitors, not amateurs.
The Men’s Physique category has been around for approximately 10 years, and in that time, plenty of stars, icons, and talent have come through the category. Since the division’s competitors wear board shorts, their upper bodies are exclusively evaluated.
In 2013, Mark Anthony Wingson made history after becoming the inaugural Men’s Physique Olympia champion. Following the outcome, fellow competitors had a much clearer idea of what the judges were looking for physique-wise.
The division has never been more compelling. Former four-time Men’s Physique Olympia Jeremy Buendia laid out his firm comeback plan a few months ago. He held the title from 2014-2017. Brandon Hendrickson is a three-time winner and remains the only bodybuilder in his class to have regained the title after losing it.
The category is ultra-competitive and fans realized that in the aftermath of 2022 Mr. Olympia. In the end, Erin Banks upset Hendrickson for gold and became the first competitor from his division to win the Olympia and Arnold Classic in the same year.
Tyler Manion Institutes Height/Weight Cap in Men’s Physique: ‘We Want to Make Sure Athletes Aren’t Getting Too Big’
Tyler’s statement left out details pertaining to the exact height and weight limitations. However, he said that information will be made public two months before 2023 Mr. Olympia in September.
“The reason for this video is because we want to give a heads up to all of our athletes and our coaches that after the Olympia this year, we will be instituting heights and weight limits for our Men’s Physique pros, not amateurs, just the pros. This will go into effect for the first show after the Olympia this year.”
“Why would we do this? We’ve had great success with our heights and weights in Classic Physique so far, we want to make sure our Men’s Physique athletes are not getting too big. This is very important because that’s almost like the go-to saying for a lot of people online that just see the pictures of the shows, really not seeing them in person, but seeing the pictures of the shows and saying a lot of the Men’s Physique athletes are getting too big.”
Given the current crop of talent, Tyler believes most athletes at the top will meet the new height/weight restriction. He shared that officials are recording height and weights at every contest to ensure the new rule is implemented properly.
“I don’t think that’s the case, I think a lot of guys that have been doing well recently are not getting too big but having height and weight limits on these guys will help us control that size. And just so you guys know, the weight limits for your height will be under obviously, the Classic Physique weight limits. So, these next couple of months if you guys are over, or a lot over, or just a little over the Classic Physique weight limits, you should be keeping track of your weight and if you need to, start to downsize a little because while the weights aren’t set yet, they will be lower than the Classic weights.”
“That’s why we are going to continue to height and weight the Men’s Physique pros at most of the shows this year to get data, to help us set the final weights. Giving heights and weights to these athletes is a solution but not the perfect solution because someone can be the same height and the same weight but carry their weight a lot differently.”
“Another important part of this is adhering to our judging criteria and our standards for Men’s Physique which so far this year, I think we’ve done a really good job of. I want to highlight a lot of the athletes who have competed this year that these are what you should be looking for when you look at Men’s Physique pros and what we want to see. It’s also to show you that even though these guys are some of the best guys in the league, they still all have little points of feedback that differ depending on their physiques.”
Manion Names Top Men’s Physique Athletes Who Represent The Look Wanted for Men’s Physique
According to Tyler Manion, the physiques of Emmanuel Hunter, Corey Morris, Ryan Terry, Benquil Marigny, and Sidy Pouye represent the direction in which the division is headed.
Emmanuel Hunter
The first name Manion mentioned was 2023 Memphis Pro winner Emmanuel Hunter.
“One guy that competed earlier this year that I want to highlight for getting into a couple of different shows that just happened the last few weeks is Emmanuel (Emmanuel Hunter) won the show in Tennesee. Probably the best he’s ever looked but he has a great Men’s Physique look. His arms and shoulders flow well with his torso. He has a great back. His upper chest could come up a little bit to match the rest of his chest to give him more symmetry, basically, he has to nail his conditioning. He needs to work on that but a great guy to look for for a Men’s Physique look. A very dangerous guy heading into the Olympia later this year.”
Corey Morris
Morris recently took gold in the Men’s Physique class at Jim Manion’s 2023 Pittsburgh Pro.
“Corey Morris. Corey has improved a ton I think on his look over the last few years. Nothing on his torso needs to change. He has a small waist, great chest, full chest, his back has come up considerably, but his feedback that he’s gotten for a while now, and it’s still his feedback, his arms, and shoulders, he needs to work on bringing them down a little bit more for Men’s Physique.”
“Just to touch on mostly everybody I’m talking about from taking heights and weights the last few weeks… these guys would make the new weights that I’m considering right now for Men’s Physique. That’s the other reason I’m highlighting them. Not only do they look the part but they would all make the weight or very close to it.”
Ryan Terry
In addition, Tyler named Ryan Terry who took second in Pittsburgh but first at the New York Pro.
“He [Ryan Terry] has always had a great Men’s Physique look, very balanced physique, exactly what we’re looking for. He still needs a little bit more thickness in his back to really make his back pop the same way as his front. Obviously, he knows from the Olympia till now, he knows the posing has gotten way better. He still needs to nail his posing and work on his posing, especially his back pose. When he gets to the Olympia and to be a threat to obviously Erin and Brandon, just like a lot of these guys, these three guys right here, Emmanuel, Corey, and Ryan brought great looks so far, but it’s not just them.”
Benquil Marigny
Marigny won the 2023 St. Louis Pro and was another physique Tyler highlighted.
“In Pittsburgh, Benquil has competed a lot this year, he won a show he’s qualified. He brings a great look for Men’s Physique too. He still needs a little bit more to his chest and more pop to his back but I thin that will come when he brings his conditioning more.”
Sidy Pouye
Sidy Pouye’s look was highly favored as well. He’s been consistent this year, having earned fourth in Pittsburgh and third at the New York Pro.
“Sidy. Once again, a guy that brought a great look for Men’s Physique with great conditioning, the main factor on him that he needs to fix is posing. He poses himself out of how good he can look. I know because after New York I got the chance to talk to him and work with him. I think he’s going to bringing a look later this year, an even better look for Men’s Physique when he’s posing correctly.”
“All these guys that I just mentioned would most likely make the new weights for Men’s physique. They have a good Men’s Physique look,” added Tyler Manion.
Given Jeremy Buendia’s focus on size for the comeback, it will be interesting to see how the judges evaluate his physique. Buendia aims to dethrone Erin Banks and shocked fans recently with a 4,000-calorie diet he’s using to bulk up.
Rivals Banks and Buendia teased fans of their impending showdown with a special Olympia TV appearance a few months ago. Buendia isn’t taking his nemesis lightly. In a recent appearance in Straight Outta the Lair with seven-time 212 Olympia Flex Lewis, Buendia said he’d have to bring a flawless package to 2023 Olympia if he wanted any chance at taking out Banks.
With the division’s rapid growth and popularity, it’s quickly become one of the main attractions at the annual Mr. Olympia show. As the new rules seemingly favor a leaner look in Men’s Physique, it appears the category is moving away from mass in the future.
RELATED: Jeremy Buendia ‘Hovering Around’ 210 Lbs in Update, Reveals His Steroid Cycle
Watch the full video from the NPC News Online YouTube channel below:
Published: 9 June, 2023 | 12:04 PM EDT
Hunter Labrada Shares Stacked Physique Update 8-10 Weeks from 2023 Tampa & Texas Pro
Hunter Labrada, son of bodybuilding icon Lee Labrada, is ready to set the record straight on the Mr. Olympia stage later this year. However, to accomplish that goal, he must qualify, thus his focus is on the 2023 Tampa Pro in eight weeks. In a recent Instagram video, Labrada shared a detailed posing routine, as well as the diet and training changes he’s employed for future success.
“Feeling focused and ready to push,” Labrada shared.
From the moment he entered the IFBB Pro League, lofty expectations were the norm for Hunter Labrada considering his father Lee’s legacy. Nevertheless, it didn’t take long for Hunter to establish himself in the Open class. His breakout year came in 2021 when he snagged the Chicago Pro title before finishing a career-best fourth at the Olympia competition.
Given his performance, he started 2022 as a leading favorite heading into the next Mr. Olympia show. With time to focus on progress, size, and other improvements, Hunter used the majority of the year for preparations but also made guest posing appearances. On the big O stage, however, he found himself in seventh. He was devastated by the result, though he vowed to return better than ever.
In February, news surfaced that Labrada would enter the upcoming Tampa Pro and Texas Pro. He also said regardless of the first contest’s outcome, he still intended to compete in the Lone Star State. Labrada, who appears more fired up than in past seasons, is ready to once again insert himself in the Olympia title discussions.
Hunter Labrada Promises ‘Overhauled Presentation’ at 2023 Tampa & Texas Pro In Recent Update
In his latest post, Hunter admits he reduced his meals from six a day to five. He says the change has allowed him a better night’s sleep. As for training, Labrada is following a split of two days on, one day off, three days on, and one day off. It appears his efforts are paying off as his arms and legs look bigger.
At 273 pounds fasted, Labrada mentioned ‘his look is changing daily.’ With extra sleep and less food, Labrada feels energized heading into the next stage of contest prep approaching.
Find his post below:
“8 & 10 weeks out from the Tampa Pro and Texas Pro 273lbs fasted–Well, the proverbial hammer got dropped this week! After a week of deload-ed training while in Florida with my family last week, I hit the ground running this weekend/week, and am watching my look change daily!–One of the biggest changes I want to highlight is I went from 6 meals a day to 5! Reason: I get 2 hours more sleep! I found myself just staying up to eat a lot recently, and now that the food was low enough for it not to mess with my digestion, I told @squatlikechow I wanted to give it a try and I’m glad I did! The meals are more satiating, and I’m recovering even better with the extra sleep!–Also started posing with @kj_centerstage / @joey1belt twice a week, and I’m sure y’all can see the difference that’s made already. Looking forward to my presentation being completely overhauled for this season
Nutrition:
Meal 1220g Lean Beef180g Rice50g Green Veg
Meal 2220g Chicken Breast180g Rice50g Green Veg
Meal 3- Post260g Lean White Fish/Cod180g Rice50g Green Veg
*On rest days please repeat MEAL 5 here instead of post*
Meal 4220g Chicken Breast180g Rice50g Green Veg
Meal 5260g Lean White Fish/Cod110g Rich70g Avocado50g Green Veg
Cardio:
40 min level 5 stairmaster fasted20 min level 5 stairmaster PM–Training:
Back and hamsPush aOffLegsBack and bisPush bOffRepeat, Labrada wrote
Labrada has not been idle in-between shows, as he has graced the stage as a guest poser at a number of contests around the United States. He first flew to Washington to wow the crowd at the Emerald Cup and then joined a star-studded lineup of Men’s Open pros at Jim Manion’s 2023 Pittsburgh Pro. At the gathering, he posed alongside Olympia-runner-up Derek Lunsford, 2023 Arnold Classic champ Samson Dauda, Nick Walker, former two-time Mr. O Mamdouh ‘Big Ramy’ Elssbiay, and reigning two-time 212 Olympia Shaun Clarida.
RELATED: Bodybuilder Hunter Labrada Shares Detoxifying ‘Gut Health Drink’ for Optimal Digestion
If his growing strength is an indicator of his progress, Labrada is on track for an explosive season. Time will tell if he can take down other athletes entering these contests like Blessing Awodibu (in Tampa, Florida) and Andrew Jacked (in Texas).
Published: 8 June, 2023 | 11:28 AM EDT
Jeremy Buendia Shares 4,000-Calorie Bulking Diet in Preparation for 2023 Mr. Olympia Comeback
Preparations for Jeremy Buendia’s anticipated return to action are heating up. In a recent YouTube video, Buendia showcased his massive seven-meal diet consisting of over 4,000 calories as he inches closer to 2023 Mr. Olympia.
Competing actively, Jeremy Buendia reached the top of the sport with exceptional balance, conditioning, and a symmetrical upper body. At the time of his reign, he was known for his confidence and outspoken nature, which was often misinterpreted as arrogance.
“I don’t have any excuse this time, I better be in shape,” shared Buendia.
The fan-favorite dominated the Olympia stage in his respective category for four years straight from 2014-2017. He made a play for a fifth Men’s Physique title in 2018 but was unable to stop three-time winner Brandon Hendrickson.
While he’s remained away from the stage, Buendia never took his foot off the gas, especially in the training room. Comeback rumors swirled for years, and in 2020, it appeared fans were on the brink of seeing Jeremy compete again. However, the return never materialized.
Last September, Buendia announced that he would finally return to the Mr. Olympia stage. Before last year’s mega-event took place, Buendia and Erin Banks got into a heated argument on Olympia TV. Suffice it to say, cooler heads did not prevail. Angst, aggression, and hostility took over their discussion, further exciting fans about their impending showdown in Orlando, Florida this Nov.
Jeremy Buendia Talks 2023 Mr. Olympia Comeback Progress, Sitting at 201 Lbs, Shows Off 7-Meal Diet
According to Buendia, he and his team are now pushing hard to ensure he consumes seven meals a day. His latest diet saw him consume over 4,000 calories in a 24-hour period.
“Slowly [I’ve] increased the calories as we go along. I started at 3,500 calories, worked to 4,000 calories, now past the 4,500 calories. Been watching my weight go up and down slightly, woke up about 201 this morning. That’s actually the same weight I was four weeks ago but my body fat is significantly less.”
“Today, we’re really going to push to get that seventh meal in to really get all those calories in to help put me in that surplus to help me pack on some quality muscle.”
Find the full seven-meal plan below:
Meal 1 – 88.2 grams carbs, 75.6 grams protein, 18.25 grams of fat
10 oz of liquid egg whites
2 whole scrambled eggs
50 grams of chicken breast
1 slice of sourdough
85 grams of oats
100 grams of strawberries
2 packets of Stevia
Energy Drink
Green Tobasco hot sauce
margarin
total: 785.5 calories
Meal 2 – 108 grams carbs, 65.2 grams of protein, 11.5 grams of fat
200 grams of chicken breast (seasoned with garlic, salt, onion powder, and barbecue sauce)
yams sweet potato
pickle
total: 796 calories
Meal 3 – 91.3 grams carbs, 60 grams of protein, 11.2 grams of fat,
Rice
200 grams of lean red meat
2 whole eggs
8 oz of pineapple
total: 706 calories
“I don’t have any excuse this time. I better be in shape. I’m my toughest critic, I never think I look as good as I actually do and I think people like to tell me what I want to hear,” said Jeremy Buendia. “I’m not going to get that one in before leg day, so we’re going to switch it up.”
Protein Shake
Bagel
Tablespoon of peanut butter
Meal 4 – post-workout – 108 grams carbs, 59.5 grams of protein, 23.9 grams of fat
300 grams of sweet potato
egg white
chicken breast
total: 885.1 calories
Meal 5 – 88 grams carbs, 47.5 grams of protein, 17.9 saturated 17.95 grams of fat
Flank steak
white rice
one whole egg
total: 703 calories
Meal 6 – 88 grams carbs, 66.5 grams of protein, 25 grams of fat
garlic salt
onion poweder
chicken breast
barbeque sauce
white rice
total: 843 calories
Meal 7 – 57 grams of carbs, 33.8 grams of protein, 9.5 grams of fat
Cream of rice
chocolate brownie
5 oz of egg whites
total: 449.5 calories
Buendia touched on his upcoming back workout in an Olympia TV collaboration with reigning Men’s Physique Olympia Erin Banks. After traveling internationally, Buendia says his focus is on a ‘body recomp’ and getting his diet locked in on a more consistent schedule.
Months ago, Buendia appeared in a Straight Outta the Lair podcast with seven-time 212 Olympia kingpin Flex Lewis. During the open and honest discussion, Jeremy said the only way he overtakes Banks on the Olympia stage is if he brings a ‘flawless package.’
“I’m in preparation for my Olympia battle with Erin Banks next week in Phoenix, Arizona. We’re doing a back workout for Olympia TV. I was doing a body recomp, taking some time off a few months ago, cleaned up, and really healthy to prepared for my Olympia prep.
Had a trip international with one of my sponsors, came back and my physique was not where I wanted it to be or where I needed it to be. My metabolism wasn’t operating very efficiently, I wasn’t eating regularly. The past four weeks has been a body recomp, trying to re-establish the food in my diet and get back on a consistent schedule.”
With less than five months until the biggest event of the year, Buendia is wasting no time during preparations. In addition to showing off impressive physique updates, the 32-year-old continues to turn heads with extreme training sessions. The last time fans saw him pumping iron, he annihilated a push-day workout.
With one of the most exciting rivalries in the sport against Erin Banks, Jeremy’s comeback could end up being the most memorable affair at 2023 Mr. Olympia. Should he upset Banks and take home the title, it would bolster Jeremy’s status as the greatest Men’s Physique competitor of all time.
RELATED: 4x Physique Champion Jeremy Buendia Gives Tips For Rear Delts
Watch the full video from Jeremy Buendia’s YouTube channel:
Published: 7 June, 2023 | 12:00 PM EDT
Chris Bumstead Unveils Private Gym In-the-Making, Talks 2023 Olympia Diet & Battling Anxiety
Classic Physique kingpin Chris Bumstead is already laying the foundation for his next title defense in November. In a recent YouTube video, Bumstead detailed his new four-meal nutrition plan and discussed his experiences battling anxiety. Chris Bumstead has quickly become the most successful Classic Physique Olympia of his era. In 2019, he dethroned the two-time champ, Breon Ansley. Since then, no one has challenged his dominance in the category, which has grown tremendously since its inception in 2016. Bumstead’s journey to a fourth title was met with adversity and obstacles. For starters, he and his brother-in-law/long-time coach Iain Valliere parted ways so they could each give their own careers equal focus. At a crossroads, Bumstead teamed up with decorated guru Hany Rambod, who also coaches Mr. Olympia Hadi Choopan and Derek Lunsford.
His next roadblock took place on the Olympia stage, as Bumstead was forced to compete with a torn bicep last December. Following his decisive victory, Cbum revealed that with the help of his new coach, he was able to overcome the setback. As a four-time Classic Physique Olympia, fans are eager to see the sport’s most popular man perform once again. He recently took part in Q & A to discuss his current season and further preparations.
Bumstead Says He’s Down to 4 Meals Instead of 6 & Shows Off New Gym Location In the Works
As part of Bumstead’s new four-meal diet, he intends to consume roughly 260 grams of protein daily, roughly 1 gram per pound of body weight.
“How many meals a day do you eat? Basic question but I’m answering this because I recently changed it. I’ve touched briefly on it in my last video but I used to always consistently push myself to eat six meals a day or at least five meals and a shake but now it’s reduced to now four meals and a shake, so I have breakfast, two meals at work, and then a shake, and then one meal before bed. Because I’m still trying to get the same amount of protein content, I’ve just increased the amount of chicken, fish, or whatever I put in my meals. Honestly, my digestion has been so much better. The key to sleeping is not having a full belly when you go to bed,” said Bumstead. “As I always say, there’s no perfect way to do anything, experiment with what works best for your body. But I would say a minimum of four [meals] if you’re a bodybuilder because there’s just too big of a gap between it.”
Next, Cbum offered fans an early look at his private gym, a project he hopes to have completed 18-20 weeks from 2023 Mr. Olympia.
“Here we are. This is the future home of the 2023-2024 and beyond Olympia Prep series. The Bum lifting club if you will. My private little gym. Something everybody dreams of when you start working out, having your own gym. But even more so, having a private gym.” “Just me here if I want to train later at night, other people can come. Being at Revive, a lot of people come to visit, a lot of people come from my work and sometimes it’s hard to be there and get in the right mindset, not my music playing, so it’s just being able to control the environment and I can set my own tone to the workouts. I think it’s going to help me excel into this prep. The goal is to build this thing out 18-20 weeks from the Olympia.”
Bumstead Talks Habits, Mental Struggles, and Stress: “I’m Still Fuc*ing Battling It”
According to the 28-year-old, he suppressed his emotions for most of his life. However, he’s now learning to communicate as a means of mitigating stress and anxiety.
“That’s what I tried to do my whole life, I tried to control certain habits of mine and that’s when you’re fuc*ed. Because when you’re trying to control anxiety you have anxiety about the control you’re putting on it because anxiety is usually from putting pressure on things outside of your control. So now you’re putting more control on your anxiety and you don’t have any help over it and it creates more stress.”
“I’m still fuc*ing battling it. Learning how to relax when it comes. Accept that it’s there and not be too hard on myself. Just understand that it’s part of life whatever I’m doing there’s probably a reason it’s making me anxious because it’s probably important.” “Also, something that took me a long time to learn and still learning is communicating about it. My whole life I’ve fuc*ing held stuff in and I didn’t feel like I should talk about my stuff and felt like I could handle it on my own and thought it would be a burden if I shared it with anyone, and that made my anxiety grow and get bigger.”
This isn’t the first time Bumstead has been open and honest about his competitive spirit. In a recent episode of the Don’t Be Sour Podcast, Cbum reflected on the burden of being a reigning champion. He hopes to leave the sport on top and the dread of losing his status as champion fuels him at each competition. RELATED: Rich Gaspari: ‘Chris Bumstead Needs 40 Lbs to Win Open Mr. Olympia, No One Is Close to Him in Classic’ The stage is set for Bumstead to defend his title at the 2023 Mr. Olympia showdown, happening Nov. 2-5 in Orlando, Florida. Fans are excited to witness another clash with rising star, 2023 Arnold Classic winner, Ramon Queiroz.
You can watch this full video on Chris Bumstead’s YouTube channel:
Published: 7 June, 2023 | 12:06 AM EDT
Ronnie Coleman Names Derek Lunsford As His ‘Favorite’ Bodybuilder of This Generation
Ronnie Coleman, a living legend with eight Mr. Olympia titles, has seen talent come and go since stepping away from the stage. In a recent YouTube video, Coleman named Derek Lunsford and Samson Dauda as his favorite two bodybuilders.
While making history as one of the winningest Mr. Olympia athletes to ever take part in the sport, Coleman built a massive physique that has stood the test of time. En route to defending his title for almost a decade, he battled on stage with fellow icons such as Jay Cutler, Dexter Jackson, and Flex Wheeler.
Since retirement in 2007, Coleman has been open about his career. He credits Flex Wheeler for helping him win his first Mr. Olympia after connecting with coach Chad Nicholls. The sport has certainly undergone changes since Ronnie’s time on top, but that doesn’t mean he’s stopped sizing up the Men’s Open.
Weeks before last December’s 2022 Olympia event, Coleman predicted Derek Lunsford would serve as Mamdouh ‘Big Ramy’ Elssbiay’s greatest threat. However, the contest’s outcome saw Hadi Choopan reign supreme against a stellar lineup. Coleman was blown away by Lunsford’s runner-up appearance though, so much so, he is now predicting the former 212 champ will win 2023 Olympia this November.
Ronnie Coleman Discusses New Era: Names Derek Lunsford & Samson Dauda As His Favorite Athletes
Coleman named Derek Lunsford and 2023 Arnold Classic winner Samson Dauda as his favorite bodybuilders of this generation.
“My favorite bodybuilder at the moment, let’s see… hmm, Derek Lunsford, probably the number one favorite. Probably my number two favorite… I kind of like that guy that won the last Arnold Classic, name is Samson Dauda. If I had to pick a favorite, it’d be those two.”
After taking a closer look at today’s Open class, Coleman praised athletes for hard training and strict dieting.
“I see every generation has its own era. Mostly all of us have to work extremely hard and diet extremely hard and make the biggest sacrifices ever. So, I think that the next generation of bodybuilders is a pretty good class of guys. They work extremely hard. They train hard. They diet hard. So, I think the new generation is a pretty good generation,” said Ronnie Coleman.
Lastly, an optimistic Ronnie Coleman gave fans an update on his health.
“Well, I’m doing pretty good. I’m in great health and my last check-up was back in March. I had a really good clean bill of health as far as my last check-up goes. Now, I have another one probably in a couple of months. So, we’ll see how that goes. But for now, I’m doing pretty good.”
In addition to backing him as a title threat, Coleman recently collaborated with Derek Lunsford. They took part in a grueling back and biceps-focused training session. During the workout, Coleman introduced Derek as the next Mr. Olympia champion.
Whether Hadi Choopan defends successfully has become a topic of debate. William Bonac who decided to take the year off for improvements, believes Choopan will handily retain gold in a few months. However, 2022 third-place Olympia finisher Nick Walker doesn’t see ‘The Persian Wolf’ repeating as champion. Therefore, he predicted the outcome will be determined following a showdown between himself and Lunsford.
Meanwhile, former champ Big Ramy has set his sights on redemption. He finished fifth at the last Olympia and fourth at the 2023 Arnold Classic. Having received a stem cell treatment, fans are hopeful that Ramy will win back his title in Nov. but questions about his commitment to the sport continue to swirl as of late.
There’s no denying that the 2023 Mr. Olympia contest is shaping up to be even more unpredictable than the previous year’s edition. Fans look forward to seeing their favorite athletes back on stage, including Ronnie Coleman.
RELATED: Chris Cormier Reflects on Gunter Schlierkamp Almost Defeating Ronnie Coleman at 2002 Mr. Olympia
You can watch the full video from Ronnie Coleman’s YouTube channel below:
Published: 6 June, 2023 | 1:06 PM EDT
Blessing Awodibu Details 7,000-Calorie Diet, Talks Next Show & Life at 300-Lbs+
Blessing Awodibu’s strength is at an all-time high as he dials in preparations for his next outing. In a recent Muscular Development interview, Awodibu discussed an array of topics including his 7,000-calorie diet, bulking to 300 pounds, his competition plans, and his training strategy. In addition, he revealed his plans to compete at the 2023 Chicago Pro, Texas Pro, and Tampa Pro.
“I’m proud of my symmetry. I think I am pretty balanced. People get to talk about my legs when I’m off,” added Awodibu. “If I could buy leg muscles right now I’d fuc**ng buy it. I need more of everything.”
Men’s Bodybuilding star Awodibu is on a quest for redemption this year. He performed exceptionally well in 2022 under the guidance of his former coach, George Farah. Awodibu started off his season with a pair of victories at the Indy Pro and New York Pro. With momentum and a Mr. Olympia invitation, he pushed himself at the biggest event of the year.
The 2022 Mr. Olympia show was brimming with talent and new contenders such as Michal Krizo and Andrew Jacked emerged. Admittedly, Awodibu missed the mark and found himself outside of the top 15. Fans had hoped to see him perform in Ohio at the Arnold Classic, but he withdrew his name from the roster shortly after the list went public.
Blessing Awodibu / Instagram
Before starting his campaign for Olympia again, Awodibu shocked fans with the heaviest off-season physique update of his career. While he opted not to disclose his exact weight, it’s now evident that ‘The Boogieman’ was sporting a physique exceeding 300 pounds.
Blessing Awodibu Lays Out Contest Plans and 2023 Off-Season Strategy
Blessing Awodibu plans to make a splash in a few months by competing in three shows: the 2023 Chicago Pro, Texas Pro, and Tampa Pro. With that in mind, fans can expect to see him back on stage in less than two months from July 21-22 for the Chicago Pro.
“Those are not small shows [Chicago Pro, Tampa Pro, and Texas Pro],” said Awodibu. “I’m sure he’s [Hunter Labrada] has a chip on his shoulder. He’s got a lot to prove due to his Olympia. I’m sure he wasn’t happy with that as well. He’s got a lot to prove to the fans. I’m pumped to be able to stand next to him, especially in Tampa.”
These contests appear to be serving as popular destinations for Open talent this year. In 2022, Andrew won the Texas Pro. Jacked announced he would defend his title a few months ago. Hunter Labrada, who finished seventh at Mr. Olympia last December, has also decided to compete in Tampa and Texas.
According to Awodibu, this is the strongest he’s ever felt. He shared that he’s tipping the scale at over 300 pounds but feels healthy. In addition, he said he’s using fewer ‘super supplements’ than in past preps.
“We got up to about 301, honestly, that was rough man. I think a lot had to do with that because it was my very first time being that heavy you know. My joints hurt. My knee hurts. My performance sucked. Honestly. Lower back problems, this off-season, that’s not even a question. I feel fresh. It feels good. I’m not going to say I’m 100% I’m fuc**ng overweight, so you always going to get that but overall, my performance is good, it’s the strongest I’ve ever felt. I feel really healthy.”
“Exactly [I’m using less super supplements. This is one of the things… man, I’ve been so blessed, bro. I’m always grateful for all my mistakes and all my ups and downs because they make me better. YOu learn from these things. People don’t realize I’m still fresh in the game. This is my third year competing as a pro.”
Awodibu pointed to flatness as one of his biggest obstacles this year. As far as leg training is concerned, Awodibu said he’s eliminated heavy movements. He added that he’s training four times a week.
“I had a problem being flat on stage. Getting in shape is not a problem for me but holding that fullness, that roundness, and not being flat on stage, that is always my problem. Even when we won in Indy and New York, that was the flatter side of me.”
“I’m training three to four times a week. I’m two days on, two days off. One day on, one day off. So, those rest periods for me, they are absolutely key. When I’m in the gym everything is supersetting. Especially for my legs. We got away from all that heavy heavy heavy – that doesn’t work for me. I don’t have the body for it. I don’t have the knee.”
“I’ve brought my physique to another level. I mean, if you look at me now, the type of fullness and roundness I’m holding right now… I’ve never seen it before. It really excites me. I cannot wait to really showcase all this on stage.”
Awodibu Breaks Down 7,000-Calorie 2023 Off-Season Diet of 6 Meals
To maintain a physique of over 300 pounds, Awodibu is eating six meals a day with a 7,000-calorie intake.
“Right now we’re probably doing 6-7,000 calories. Meal one, we’ll start with 120 grams of oats, 100 grams of blueberry, and one banana. Two scoops of MuscleTech. Then we do three slices of Ezekiel bread laced with fuc*ing jam. Then, 200 grams of steak, two whole eggs, and egg whites.”
“Meal two, 350 grams of rice with 280 grams of salmon,” Awodibu added. “Post workout meal, another 400 grams of purple potato 280 grams of salmon, then after that, four would be 300 grams of rice, about 250 grams of steak. Then, I would have another 300 grams of rice, either chicken or I tend to switch it up sometimes shrimp. The last meal would be Greek yogurts, 300 grams, and two scoops of whey. Three slices of Ezekiel bread with peanut butter.”
While away from the stage, Awodibu has maintained a steady training schedule. His eccentric personality was on full display when he joined hands with fitness model Bakhar Nabieva for a quad-focused leg day workout.
With a lot to prove in 2023, Blessing Awodibu is attacking his progress from all angles to produce a more complete physique. Time will tell how he fares against other Men’s Open contenders at the 2023 Chicago Pro in late July.
You can watch the full video from Muscular Development below:
RELATED: Blessing Awodibu Escapes Serious Injury, Ready to Start The Growing Season
Published: 5 June, 2023 | 3:59 PM EDT