Tag: Bodybuilding
“I Never Thought He’d Accomplish What He’s Accomplishing” Chris Aceto Praises Nick Walker’s Potential
Preparations for the upcoming 2023 Olympia contest in November are heating up. Contenders in the Open class are aiming to bring their best to dethrone the reigning Mr. Olympia Hadi Choopan. In a recent Mutant and the Mouth Podcast, Nick Walker and bodybuilding coach Chris Aceto discussed his potential of winning the coveted crown later this year.
Walker entered the IFBB Pro League brimming with potential, having laid claim to his first Pro title at the 2021 New York Pro. From there, he wasted no time in performing against elite talent. He stormed Columbus, Ohio for his debut on the Arnold Classic stage. ‘The Mutant’ even predicted beforehand that he would leave the town victorious, and that’s exactly what happened.
At Walker’s first Olympia competition, he shocked the world with a fifth-place finish. His combination of freakish muscle mass and conditioning set him apart from his peers. Despite encountering obstacles last year (like temporarily splitting from his trainer Matt Jansen), Walker still shined in his sophomore Olympia appearance.
In the 2022 Olympia finals, Walker faced off with Hadi Choopan and Derek Lunsford – two men trained by bodybuilding guru Hany Rambod. In the end, Walker settled for bronze and the Olympia People’s Champ Award. As for Choopan, he secured his first Sandow trophy against Lunsford and became the only Iranian-born Mr. Olympia titleholder.
Chris Aceto has served as a long-time bodybuilding coach to several high-profile names in the sport. He’s worked with Mike Francois, Jay Cutler, Paul DeMayo, and helps shape Men’s Open pros of today, like Andrew Jacked. In his latest undertaking, Aceto took a closer look at Nick Walker and the physique he’s bringing to 2023 Olympia.
Chris Aceto Talks Nick Walker’s 2023 Olympia Potential, Derek Lunsford’s Flow & Hadi Choopan’s Muscle Maturity
Aceto admits he was ‘100% wrong’ about Nick Walker’s potential as a Men’s Open bodybuilder.
“I think for me the problem is when people talk about me it’s no big deal, right? People are like, ‘Oh you look like a fridge, you got a wide waist.’ No one is like, ‘True,’ right? The moment I say something that has some validity to it, everybody just loses their fucking mind,” said Walker.
“They say, ‘Stay in your lane,’” Aceto shared.
“Exactly, what people don’t understand, I respect all of them. I’m friends with all of them but I’m – you asked me my opinion, I’m going to give you what I truthfully think. Just like I would expect people to be honest about what they truthfully think about my physique. Chris, Chris has said multiple times I’ll never be good I believe on many podcasts,” said Walker.
“I said that over and over. This is the most improved terrible body in the history of the sport, I’m serious. You know what, how many times on the radio have I said, I’m wrong, I was only 100% wrong in terms of Nick Walker. I mean, I wasn’t 40% wrong. Yeah, you look crazy,” Aceto explained.
While Aceto has been critical of Walker’s structure in the past, he was blown away by Nick’s accomplishments in such a short period of time. Aceto mentioned that moving forward, Walker should always be in title discussions for 2023 Olympia.
“When I post my updates tomorrow, that’s what I’m going to write as my caption, the most improved terrible physique,” said Walker.
“You know what, obviously, Nick, you’ve accomplished more I think than the collective expectation has been for Nick Walker. You know what, most, the hardest thing – the best way to get to your peers – which is as important as the judge’s respect, is for people to say, ‘Ah Nick sucks. Oh, wait, he beat me.’ Then he did it again. He beat so and so and beat so and so. It shuts people up. It makes people go like wow I was really wrong on Nick Walker. I never thought he’d accomplish what he’s accomplishing,” Aceto shared.
Chris also discussed Derek Lunsford’s flow and Hadi Choopan’s game-changing muscle maturity.
“That’s why when people say, now people say, Olympia, when your name is not mentioned I’m like, what? Even when I came from Kamal’s right. I said impossible lowest is third. Lowest is third. I said the lowest was third. I put all my money on Derek and Hadi would just surprise me like I didn’t know what to do with him, you know what I mean? He’s [Choopan] hard to handicap because he has a lot of strengths. He has a lot of tools. Obviously, I wouldn’t say he – this is not a knock against anyone, he does not have a flow of Derek even though he has more density than Derek and more maturity than Derek, so there’s a contrast.”
“Last year, he [Hadi Choopan] was either going to be first or third,” added Aceto.
One of the last times fans heard from Chris Aceto, he took issue with the 2023 Arnold Classic scorecards. Like many others, Aceto thought Walker could have won in Ohio. He shared that Walker would have defeated Samson Dauda in a ‘one versus one’ comparison but never got the opportunity. Other veterans of the sport such as Samir Bannout also thought Walker won the show soundly.
With so many contenders hungry for Choopan’s title, this year’s Olympia show will be packed with action. Walker has been open about his game plan and is currently growing a huge chest and quads to balance out his appearance. Given the way the wind is blowing, Walker is confident either he or Derek Lunsford will win the next Mr. Olympia title.
RELATED: Nick Walker on 2023 Olympia: ‘Samson Dauda’s Back is Shit, Big Ramy Is Done & Andrew Jacked Won’t Make Top 5’
Watch the full video from the Mutant and the Mouth Podcast YouTube channel below:
Published: 18 July, 2023 | 3:33 PM EDT
Shaun Clarida ‘Coming in Bigger’ for 2023 Olympia, Starts Prep Early + Talks Lifting Heavy Weight
Shaun Clarida is gearing up for his 2023 Olympia prep as the show approaches in less than four months. In a recent Muscular Development interview, Clarida updated fans on his progress and said he’s prioritizing hamstring and chest growth in the coming weeks.
Reigning two-time 212 Olympia Shaun Clarida is a monster of the division. He built his name in the league with hard work, grit, and throwing around ridiculously heavy weight. While he may not possess a towering structure, he makes up for it with cartoonish muscle density and dry conditioning. Given his strength and tenacity inside the gym, some in the sport have labeled Shaun a ‘Mini Ronnie Coleman.’
Following years of chasing his dream of becoming an Olympia champion, Clarida achieved his goal in 2020 when he dethroned Kamal Elgargni. Heavy is the head that wears the crown, as was the case with Shaun, who eventually lost his title a year later to IFBB Pro League star, Derek Lunsford. Ultimately, Lunsford moved to the Open division while Clarida mapped out a plan to retrieve his title.
Last December, Clarida reinstated himself as the 212 Olympia to become a two-time champion. Instead of resting his physique, Clarida jumped into the recent 2023 Arnold Classic in the Open. At the event, he proved why he’s nicknamed ‘The Giant Killer.’ Clarida would end the show in fifth place but pushed several mass monsters including the former two-time Mr. Olympia Mamdouh ‘Big Ramy’ Elssbiay.
Shaun Clarida Growing Chest, Hamstrings for 2023 Olympia, Plans to Bring as Much Muscle ‘As Possible’
Clarida said he started his prep early, which allows him to ‘pull back’ later if need be.
“Yeah, 18 weeks as of tomorrow, Friday. I always like to start prep early, for me personally. I like to clean things up start a little cardio that way toward the end I can pull back and let my body rest a little bit and feed before the show,” said Shaun Clarida. “Yeah, no I would never do that [prep for 8-10 weeks].”
Unlike in the past, Clarida reached his heaviest weight in the off-season this year at 215 pounds.
“Yeah, it’s – I mean I got up to like 215. It’s pretty crazy. I didn’t really believe I could because obviously dealing with the big move, the baby, and everything, I felt like my body would probably retract a little bit or I wouldn’t be able to train as much as I have. Luckily, I’ve been down here and able to train every single day. Been getting my cardio in and my food in so everything has been good.”
“I definitely feel like this year’s Olympia I’m coming in a little bit bigger but the most important thing for me is the conditioning. I don’t necessarily look to put on weight but I’m always a big fan of trying to improve certain areas like my chest and my hamstrings. And while I do that, I get stronger after those movements and your body just grows, naturally just grows.
It’s been a great off-season thus far. I feel like I’m going to grow into the show. For me personally, I’ve always been someone who gets stronger into prep. Sometimes I have to be mindful when I’m in prep just to make sure I’m safe and don’t get injured. But I’m going to keep pushing hard and keeping pushing strong and hold as much muscle size going into this show as possible.”
Clarida Talks Gym Pins for Plate-Loaded Training and Lifting Heavy
Clarida shared that he uses a gym pin to add additional weights to machines that don’t meet his requirements.
“It’s mainly, I mean he makes different versions, obviously, pin loaded. So if it’s a machine with a stack of like 200, like right now, my abductor machine the most you can put on it is 200, so I have to put the gym pin on there to add another 25 plate on there.
Mostly I use that for that hammer incline press that can’t handle a certain amount of weights or the leg press is a big one for me. Like a lot of leg presses have really small hooks to them. So, I bring that in and kind of extend that and add more weight to it. You know, mostly plate-loaded stuff, yeah.”
According to Clarida, his body craves heavy weight despite his age and the subsequent risk factor.
“Yeah [I’m still getting stronger] honestly I have. Despite my age, I just think maybe because this is how I’ve been doing it since the beginning. My body just craves the heavy weight. People give me shit for it,” added Clarida.
Clarida explained that his prep has been stress-free because he created a home gym in his garage, where he trains cardio, abs, glutes, and abductors.
“This prep has been really just stress-free. I actually put a gym in the garage. We have a four-car garage so I took two of the bays and called my man Steve at Super Gym and ordered eight pieces of equipment. Typically I do my morning cardio at the gym and have to drive there and do the whole session. Anything I do in the morning as far as my cardio, my abs, my glutes, my abductors, I do them now at the house.”
Even though he prefers lifting heavy, Shaun favors Smith machine movements because they provide his body with more stability.
“It’s scary sometimes [the heavy weight]. It is pretty scary. But I always say it’s either me or the machine and it’s not going to win today. I don’t get under some weight and think about how it’s going to hurt me if I do this or that. You just have to get under it and think you’re going to get your reps 8-10 or whatever you want and walk away and be done with it.”
“More so [I use Smith machine movements] for me because I’m now training by myself. If I still had a training partner I would still do an incline barbell but definitely not a flat bench. But because I train by myself, it’s a lot safer. Two, I’ve always liked the Smith machine because I don’t have to utilize my stabilizers. I can just find the right path and go up and down.”
In March, Clarida boldly claimed that he wanted to surpass former 212 Olympia Flex Lewis’ record of seven titles – the most in history. In an appearance on Hany Rambod’s The Truth Podcast, Clarida made it clear that was his primary goal as well as continuing to test his resolve in the Men’s Open.
Clarida and Rambod also joined hands for a YouTube video where they hammered through a brutal FST-7 chest workout. The goal was to maximize muscle growth and Clarida’s chest showed as much by the time they wrapped up the training session.
Fans have already deemed Shaun Clarida a massive favorite heading into November. Should he once again claim the 212 Olympia title, Clarida will be one step closer to breaking Lewis’ all-time win record on the sport’s biggest stage.
RELATED: Bodybuilder Shaun Clarida Crushes A Demanding Chest And Delts Workout
Watch the full video from the Muscular Development YouTube channel below:
Published: 18 July, 2023 | 11:34 AM EDT
Melanotan Usage in Bodybuilding
Melanotan, also known as MT2, is a synthetic peptide hormone that stimulates the production of melanin in the body. While its primary use is for tanning and skin pigmentation, Melanotan has gained popularity among bodybuilders for its potential benefits in enhancing physique and muscle definition. This article explores the usage of Melanotan in bodybuilding, including…
Ronnie Coleman Teams Up w/ Panatta Equipment to Build The ‘World’s Greatest Gym’
Bodybuilding legend Ronnie Coleman is determined to create his own personal mecca of weightlifting. In a recent YouTube video, Coleman revealed that he teamed up with Panatta Gym Equipment to create a one-of-a-kind gym.
“We have finally arrived at the world’s famous Panatta city. I’m here to introduce Panatta sports to the United States, yeah buddy. Let’s go do this y’all,” Ronnie Coleman shared.
For nearly a decade, Ronnie Coleman sat atop the Mr. Olympia throne as the undisputed king of the sport. He amazed fans and intimidated rivals with his unparalleled size, strength, and willpower. Coleman suffered in the training room day after day to earn a total of eight Mr. Olympia titles. In 2006, he was dethroned by his long-time rival Jay Cutler.
But Coleman was far more than a bodybuilder. His strength was on another level, and that’s something he showcased often at the gym. He lifted weights that would make most people faint. Coleman is famous for his astonishing 800-pound squat for two reps as well as his iconic 2,300-pound leg press. That strength inside the gym gave him a near-invincible aura during his reign.
Even today, Jay Cutler, the man who succeeded Coleman, admits no one has ever come close to Ronnie’s prime physique. He believes bodybuilders today lack the size and conditioning that made Coleman such a nightmare to deal with on stage. While he struggles to walk without assistance, Coleman’s love for working out still consumes his life. And now, having opened a new gym, perhaps fans will see more clips of Big Ron pumping iron.
Ronnie Coleman Creating ‘The World’s Greatest Gym’ With Panatta Equipment: “It’s a Natural Fit”
The CEO of Ronnie Coleman’s Signature Series opened up about the big move as well as the founder of Panatta Equipment.
“We have the potential to become the Rolls Royce of bodybuilding,” said Rudy, the founder of the Panatta company.
“The equipment is just remarkable, there’s really nothing out there. There’s an attention to detail and passion to really pushing the pace of innovation is just unmatched. Everything that he does, that Rudy has created, it’s like he’s thought of everything. I don’t know if I’ve seen a jump in innovation and quality in equipment in a very long time and he’s doing that right now,” said Brandon Hearn CEO of Ronnie Coleman’s Signature Series.
“It’s a natural fit that we want to team up with the best, we’re the best, they’re the best. There’s a natural synergy together to go out and kind of conquer the fitness world,” added Hearn.
Aside from gym openings, Coleman has remained hopeful about his health in retirement. It’s no mystery that ‘The King’ has suffered from some health obstacles since last appearing on stage. In fact, Coleman mentioned that he’s undergone more than ten back surgeries. As a result of the toll they’ve taken on his mobility, the bodybuilding legend struggles to feel his extremities when he’s pushing through training sessions.
With health a top priority, Coleman has been receiving regular stem cell therapy treatments. He said they are helping a lot, especially with his overall pain levels. While he doesn’t think he’ll be walking unassisted any time soon, Coleman is hopeful and positive about the future.
With Coleman’s latest MetroFlex Gym opening, fans are excited to see what’s next. In the past, The Metroflex Gym housed several elite athletes during their careers, such as Coleman, Branch Warren, Johnnie Jackson, and Steve Kuclo.
RELATED: Ronnie Coleman Reacts to Reigning Mr. Olympia Hadi Choopan’s Craziest Lifts
You can watch the video from Ronnie Coleman’s YouTube channel below:
Published: 17 July, 2023 | 8:14 PM EDT
Flex Lewis Likens Derek Lunsford to Conor McGregor: ‘You’re Going to Be the First-Ever Champ-Champ’
Before he greenlights his 2023 Olympia prep, Derek Lunsford joined Flex Lewis for a talk about his future. In the latest Straight Outta the Lair Podcast, Lewis discussed their old rivalry and stressed how close Lunsford is to becoming the sport’s first two-division Mr. Olympia champion.
Former 212 Olympia Derek Lunsford’s name has grown tremendously in the bodybuilding world over the last few years. In 2022, Lunsford set himself up for success, having displayed a jaw-dropping physique at Jim Manion’s Pittsburgh Pro. This impromptu appearance was crucial as it paved the way for him to earn a special invite to compete in the Open Mr. Olympia.
Despite it being his debut in the Open, Lunsford stole the show at the 2022 Mr. Olympia contest. Many in the audience deemed his prejudging act one of the most memorable in years. Ultimately, Lunsford battled his teammate Hadi Choopan and Nick Walker for gold in the finals. It was close, but the judges awarded Choopan first for his conditioning, especially from the front.
Lunsford decided to stick with the recipe he used last year and once again made headlines following the 2023 Pittsburgh Pro. During this appearance, he guest posed next to Olympia contenders Nick Walker, Hunter Labrada, Samson Dauda, Mamdouh ‘Big Ramy’ Elssbiay, and reigning two-time 212 Olympia Shaun Clarida.
Flex Lewis, meanwhile, decided to retire last May, right around when Lunsford began picking up momentum. While Lewis intended to switch to the Open, health issues prevented him from fulfilling the dream. Nevertheless, he’s remained passionate about bodybuilding with a long-form podcast.
Flex Lewis: ‘Going into This Year’s Olympia, Derek Is The One’
Lewis always wanted to be a two-division champion like former UFC Featherweight and Lightweight Champion Conor McGregor. However, he believes Lunsford is on that path now.
“Going into this year’s Olympia, I said to so many people – Derek Lunsford is the one. That Pittsburgh Pro, that blew my mind and everyone else’s. I thought to myself, thank God that guys not in the 212 anymore. I also said to myself, thank God I am not competing in the Open class against this guy. I also said, whoever is going to be standing next to that guy is in for a handful,” said Lewis.
“What you’ve done since the 212 is honestly so inspiring. You say that you were never able to dethrone me, but you know what I can say about you, is, I might have beaten you in the 212 class but now you’re going to be – in my eyes – the first ever champ champ. That to me, because of Conor McGregor and many of the other guys from different weight divisions have done it, is and was my motivation.
It was my motivation to be the first-ever two-division champ-champ. You now, whether you thought about it or not, it was consuming for me… I know [being] able to achieve something I’ll never be able to achieve now that I’m retired. I want to see you go to the moon and back,” said Lewis.
Lewis, Lunsford Talk ‘Born’ 212 Rivalry + Derek’s Time Training w/ 8x Mr. Olympia Ronnie Coleman
Flex Lewis and Derek Lunsford agree that most of the animosity toward each other was manufactured by their teams.
“We were rivals man, we were really butting heads,” said Derek Lunsford. “There was this born rivalry and now we realized, it didn’t really stem from us. There was external people fluffing things up. There was people in the middle doing [talking]. And we had no clue,” said Lewis.
“It was firing us both up,” said Lunsford.
“Listen, then it was yeah, I was doing a pose a most muscular, and Franco McGrath was standing behind me and then you literally did the same thing a day later. I’m looking at this: I’m like Frank am I reading into this, did he just do it because of us, and Frank’s like, ‘Yeah, he did!’ Frank was like the hype guy. He’d be like, ‘Did you see what Derek’s done today?’ It was definitely a planting of the seed going into that year [2018]. When I looked back, it’s truly what I needed. It’s what I needed,” said Lewis.
Bro, that’s Ronnie Coleman, saying that he believes I can be Mr. Olympia this year. Like, I want to give you words but I have none. It’s almost like, wow, holy crap! Then at the same time, wait a minute, now there’s this other level of pressure too. The greatest of the greats just said he can do it. Well now, I better freakin do it, you know what I mean. That’s my honest feeling when it comes to that.”
With preparations heating up for everyone, Lunsford has taken a keen interest in his nutrition this off-season. The former 212 Olympia champ detailed his diet and supplement stack recently. Lunsford is aiming to eat as clean as possible this year, which he believes will have a positive impact on his overall physique in November.
Despite Choopan’s impressive victory last December, many have suggested he won’t defend his title successfully in Orlando, Florida. Nick Walker believes the next winner will either be himself or Lunsford. As for 2023 Arnold Classic titleholder Samson Dauda, he believes with more back detail, he has the tools to capture Olympia gold on his second attempt.
Should Derek Lunsford win in November, he will go down as the sport’s first-ever two-division Mr. Olympia champion, a goal Flex Lewis once shared when he was competing actively.
Watch the full video from Flex Lewis’ Straight Outta the Lair YouTube channel:
Published: 17 July, 2023 | 3:45 PM EDT
Chris Cormier, Dennis James, Dave Palumbo, Milos Sarcev Talk Steroids, Synthol, & Bodybuilding After 40
Longevity in bodybuilding has become a booming subject given some of the risks associated with the sport. In a recent The Menace Podcast, Chris Cormier, Dennis James, Milos Sarcev, and Dave Palumbo discussed some of those risks, which included site-enhancement oils and expired steroids. They also talked about life as a bodybuilder after 40 years old.
The IFBB Pro League serves as the ultimate arena for bodybuilders who strive to sculpt their physiques into artistic masterpieces. These athletes dedicate their lives to achieving the perfect balance of muscle mass, symmetry, and proportions but diet and exercise alone are not enough to reach the pinnacle of this sport. To keep up with their rivals, competitors use an array of substances and methods to enhance their appearance or performance.
The use of site-enhancement oils goes back decades now. As was the case with 1990s veterans Milos Sarcev and Chris Cormier, both of whom have used Synthol. Looking back, Sarcev believes shooting his arms with Synthol was the biggest regret of his career.
Meanwhile, Cormier has mentioned that he used the same drug and remembers injecting it into his calves. He’s gone on to warn upcoming talent about the dangers associated with the practice. Cormier has also been honest about what it did to his physique, and said the ‘damage is real.’
“We All Inject Something” Milos Sarcev, Chris Cormier, Dave Palumbo, Dennis James Talk Synthol in Bodybuilding
When asked if the top 10 Open bodybuilders from Mr. Olympia are using site-enhancement oils, Palumbo implied they are all using ‘something.’ As for Chris Cormier, he believes athletes lack striations nowadays because of Synthol use.
“We all inject something,” said Milos Sarcev.
“I think every single one of them is doing something,” added Palumbo. “I don’t know one person that doesn’t shoot something in their shoulders and arms to make them bigger. I don’t know one person.”
“I see it down the back. I see it in the quads. You don’t have the quad striations you should normally have. When you do see quad striations everyone is like, ‘Oh my God.’ But that should be the standard if you’re that lean,” said Cormier.
Palumbo elaborated and said athletes today are using up to 10,000 milligrams of testosterone, which is unintentionally serving as a site enhancement.
“I think what happened is nowadays, guys are using it but they are not abusing it much. There’s still a couple of nut cases that do, but by and far, people understand that you have to be creative about the process of how you do it. Now a lot of guys just use their regular gear. You see these guys today. I know guys taking 10,000 milligrams of testosterone a week, I don’t know why they’re doing it but they don’t even need site injection oil, they just use the testosterone as their site injection oil because they’re popping it everywhere on their body,” said Dave Palumbo.
“It takes away from the quality of muscle. But that’s the look I see, because there’s no way you have striated glutes and hardly no body fat, I mean the diet is impeccable, but then when you do that as opposed to leaning on that side of the coin instead of the other side of the coin where you train hard, put it where you got to put it, but don’t put it where you don’t need to put it just because you’re trying to look a certain way. It’s taking away from the quality,” responded Chris Cormier.
Milos Relives 12-Year Expired Parabolan, Masteron Experience: ‘My Whole Body Exploded w/Acne’
Next, the group discussed the efficacy of expired steroids. Sarcev regretfully took a batch over 10 years expired back in his heyday.
“The only side effect that I could say [from expired drugs] is acne. That was – I got a guy that brought me 12 years expired parabolan and masteron and all this shit right. It expired 12 years before. When you have it in your hands, this is original. You can’t throw it away. How bad can it be?” laughed Milos Sarcev. “Man, my whole body exploded with acne.”
Sarcev added that there were points during his career when he used drugs like Viagra on stage.
“Did any of you use Viagra for the stage? Because in ’97, there was no Viagra man. Yeah, I told you too right,” Milos Sarcev said. “One million percent you get fully pumped.”
Bodybuilding After 40: Prostate Health, Blood Work + Stem Cell Updates
According to Chris Cormier, he began to experience problems in the restroom when he took steroids for more than two weeks.
“I started to urinate, and then towards the end of me urinating, I got to shit. I did that [checked my prostate]. Yup. I know when I was in competition I would take Equipoise and my prostate would get really sore for some reason,” said Cormier.
“You probably convert to DHT at a very high level,” said Dave Palumbo.
Monitoring blood work is a great way for athletes to keep an eye on relevant health markers. However, Dennis James worries that athletes would rather not know than go to a doctor and find out what’s wrong.
“Athletes now are more cautious with doctors and getting themselves checked since we see so many people dying,” said Dennis James. “I think these guys they just don’t want to know. The worse thing for them is they go somewhere, the doctors tell them this is high and tells them they shouldn’t be doing this or that,” said James.
Palumbo stressed that anyone over the age of 40 should have a cardiac CT angiogram done. He told Rich Gaspari to have the test done years ago and ‘The Dragon Slayer’ discovered a 100% blocked artery.
“Everyone over the age of 40 should have a cardiac CT angiogram done, it’s a CT scan, they put a little dye in you and you know what, you know if you have a blockage or not. If you have a blockage you go and get a stent, I told Gaspari to go get it done. He went and found out he didn’t even know he had 100% blockage in one artery,” said Palumbo.
Lastly, Dennis James updated fans on his training regimen, which has increased considerably since his stem cell injections.
“Yesterday, I was in the gym yesterday. By the way Milos, I started training. It was the first real workout I had in years. I did six exercises, normally I do two, two sets each and I did six with five sets each. I’m sore all over. I think it is [the stem cells],” explained Dennis James. “I also said when I’m done with the stem cell treatment I was going back to the gym and getting serious again. That’s why yesterday I really started training seriously.”
Flex Wheeler also appeared on The Menace Podcast recently and discussed his use of insulin and Synthol. While Flex admits his contemporaries also used it, he said prolonged site-enhancement oil use resulted in excessive scar tissue at the injection sites.
Even though the sport can be unforgiving, plenty of notable pros have found longevity in retirement. Most importantly, James, Sarcev, and Cormier agree that health after 40 requires a more consistent and calculated effort.
READ MORE:
Watch the full The Menace Podcast on YouTube below:
Published: 17 July, 2023 | 11:45 AM EDT
2023 Vancouver Pro Results and Scorecards — Hassan Mostafa Wins Bodybuilding Title
The 2023 Vancouver Pro/Am is one of five events taking over the Pro bodybuilding world this weekend. On July 15 in Vancouver, Canada, competitors from the Classic Physique, Men’s Open, Men’s Physique, Bikini, Figure, and Fitness divisions battled for a shot at a Mr. Olympia invitation.
This year, athletes have fewer months and contests where they can qualify for the 2023 Mr. Olympia show. With that in mind, earning an invite has become even more challenging. This year’s Olympia event is slated for Nov. 2-5 in Orlando, Florida, inside the Orange County Convention Center.
Potentially, there will be six athletes who earn their way to the biggest competition on earth later this year. The respective winners of each division of this weekend’s show will have a shot at taking down the reigning champion of their division.
In the headlining Men’s Open category, Hassan Mostafa returned with a vengeance. He took runner-up twice thus far, first to Iain Valliere at the 2023 Toronto Pro Supershow, and then was upset by Phil Clahar at the 2023 Orlando Pro. Another top threat this weekend was Stan de Longeaux, well known as ‘Stanimal.’ He trailed Mostafa in Orlando, so he was hoping to one-up him here today.
2023 Vancouver Pro/Am Winners
Men’s Open: Hassan Mostafa
Classic Physique: John Le
Men’s Physique: Jason Huynh
Bikini: Ashley Kaltwasser
Figure: Gina Palma
Fitness: Sarah Kovach
2023 Vancouver Pro/Am Results
Men’s Open
While it was a smaller lineup in Vancouver, athletes came out swinging during prejudging on Saturday. The thickness of Hassan Mostafa‘s back stood out as one of his best weapons. Instead of bringing more condition, Mostafa went for a fuller look in Canada, which seemingly paid off. Mostafa’s last show came in second place at the 2023 Orlando Pro. Meanwhile, ‘Stanimal’s’ last appearance was also at the Orlando Pro, where he trailed behind Hassan in third.
Stan ‘Stanimal’ de Longeaux brought a stellar look and great conditioning, the freaky fullness of Hassan Mostafa sealed the deal in the finals. He is now qualified to compete at the Mr. Olympia show. Meanwhile, Longeaux took second and Nate Spear placed third.
Winner — Hassan Mostafa
Second Place — Stan ‘Stanimal’ de Longeaux
Third Place — Nate Spear
Fourth Place — Prince Boabang
Fifth Place — Morgan MacDonald
Sixth Place — Eiren Gauley
Classic Physique
During prejudging, Robert Waterhouse, Dylan Bursey, and John Le were fighting for center stage. Waterhouse’s last event came at the 2020 British Grand Prix in ninth. Bursey, on the other hand, last impressed judges at the 2022 NPC North America Championships where he took first. Le’s last contest was at the 2022 Texas Pro in fourth.
There were plenty of close comparisons, but the capped shoulders and tight waist of John Le earned him the victory. Dylan Bursey walked away as a runner-up in Canada, with Robert Waterhouse and Issac Baier taking third and fourth.
Winner — John Le
Second Place — Dylan Bursey
Third Place — Robert Waterhouse
Fourth Place — Isaac Baier
Fifth Place — Adam Beveridge
Sixth Place — Carl Gauthier
Seventh Place — Anas Barahmeh
Eighth Place — Narek Khachatyan
Ninth Place — Billy Danh
Tenth Place — Jesse Strand
Men’s Physique
Winner — Jason Huynh
Second Place — Mehdi Kabbadj
Third Place — Drew Cullen
Fourth Place — Chevy Phillips
Fifth Place — Wagner Abreu
Sixth Place — Patrick Asiedu
Seventh Place — Xezikiel Afanou
Eighth Place — Slegfried Ezeuko
Ninth Place — Chuan-Yu Liu
Tenth Place — Eric Neal
Bikini
Winner — Ashley Kaltwasser
Second Place — Maxine Alexandra Somov
Third Place — Tianna Weymouth
Fourth Place — Nikki Kiani
Fifth Place — Rhoda Allie
Sixth Place — Kateryna Kauffmann
Seventh Place — Meggy Martin-Johnson
Eighth Place — Gina Switzeny
Ninth Place — Jill E. Humphrey
Tenth Place — Kristy Ann Keppel
Ashley Kaltwasser, a total legend in the world of bodybuilding, has accomplished something no one else has! She’s now the very first IFBB Pro to win a jaw-dropping 40 pro shows, and guess what? Three of those remarkable victories were just this year, in 2023.
With her impressive track record, she already had a spot secured for the 2023 Olympia without winning another pro show. However, by winning this contest, she ensured that her qualification remains exclusively hers and doesn’t pass down to anyone else. It’s all about holding on to her well-deserved spot! She did it! Ashley pulled off another incredible victory
Figure
Winner — Gina Palma
Second Place — Autumn Cleveland
Third Place — Dallia Alegria
Fourth Place — Peyton Dutcher
Fifth Place — Paige Sabedra
Sixth Place — Lauren Martin-Stow
Seventh Place — Rachel Shoemake
Fitness
Winner — Sarah Kovach
Second Place — Michelle Fredua-Mensa
Third Place — Stephanie Jones
Fourth Place — Jessica Ann Zehr
Fifth Place — Noeme Champagne-Cloutier
Sixth Place — Danielle DaCosta
2023 Vancouver Pro/Am Scorecards
2023 Vancouver Pro Bikini
2023 Vancouver Pro Figure
2023 Vancouver Pro Fitness
2023 Vancouver Pro Mens Physique
2023 Vancouver Pro Classic Physique
2023 Vancouver Pro Mens Bodybuilding
FitnessVolt congratulates the winners. We look forward to seeing you shine on the Mr. Olympia stage!
Published: 17 July, 2023 | 9:12 AM EDT
Tbol
Turinabol, commonly known as Tbol, is a popular choice among bodybuilders seeking enhanced muscle gains and improved performance. This article provides valuable insights into dosages, durations, and recommended steroid stacks for beginners, intermediates, and advanced users. Discover the optimal approach to maximizing the benefits of Tbol while prioritizing your health and safety.
EQUIPOISE STEROID
Equipoise, also known as Boldenone, is a popular steroid among bodybuilders seeking impressive muscle gains. In this article, we explore recommended dosages for beginners, intermediates, and advanced bodybuilders. Additionally, we delve into the use of Equipoise in combination with other popular steroids, uncovering the potential for enhanced results and a well-rounded physique. Whether you’re just starting your bodybuilding journey or looking to take it to the next level, Equipoise could be the key to unlocking your true potential.
2023 Lenda Murray Atlanta Pro Results and Scorecards
The bodybuilding season is heating up as the 2023 Lenda Murray Atlanta Pro Supershow is here and took place from July 15-16. This mega-competition featured a total of nine IFBB Pro League divisions including, Classic Physique, Men’s Physique, 212 Men’s Bodybuilding, Women’s Physique, Wellness, Bikini, Fitness, Women’s Bodybuilding, and Figure.
This show holds special significance since Lenda Murray’s name is attached to it. Her name will forever be etched in the Women’s Bodybuilding history books as an eight-time Olympia champion. She is a beloved figure in the industry and a great mentor to female bodybuilders around the world.
All competitors took to Atlanta, Georgia, aiming to earn their respective invites at this Olympia qualifier. This year’s 2023 Mr. Olympia show will take place in Orlando, Florida, inside the Orange County Convention Center from Nov. 2-5. It’s more challenging to qualify as there are fewer months in the season as the qualification period ends on Oct. 9.
2023 Lenda Murray Atlanta Pro Show Winners
Classic Physique: Carlos Dommar
Men’s 212 Bodybuilding: John Jewett
Men’s Physique: Jeremy Potvin
Women’s Physique: Amy McKown
Wellness: Johanna Calcano
Bikini: Tara Grier
Fitness: Amber Steffen
Women’s Bodybuilding: MayLa Ash
Figure: Adela Ondrejovicova
2023 Lenda Murray Atlanta Pro Results
Classic Physique
Classic Physique stars took to the stage on Saturday. During prejudging and finals, fans were impressed with Anthony Barbera III. He brought a stellar physique with excellent structure and balance. Barbera last competed at the 2022 Olympia but was unable to place.
Carlos Dommar was another frontrunner who brought next-level conditioning. Dommar’s last show came at the 2022 Puerto Rico Pro, where he finished second. While it was close, Carlos Dommar secured the big victory, with Anthony Barbera III taking runner-up.
Also, Krimo Ammari and Matthew Greggo brought impressive looks. They walked away in third and fourth, respectively.
Winner — Carlos Dommar
Second Place — Anthony Barbera III
Third Place — Krimo Ammari
Fourth Place — Matthew Greggo
Fifth Place — Jeremiah Willies
Sixth Place — Zeek Andrews
Seventh Place — Duquann Hinton
Eighth Place — Miguel Dominguez
Ninth Place — Keith Lanier
Tenth Place — Tyler Tallent
Men’s 212 Bodybuilding
The 212 division was on point during prejudging and the finals. Fans were impressed with the balance and upper bodies of Diego A. Guerra Montoya and John Jewett. Montoya last shined on stage at the 2023 New York Pro, where he took runner-up. Jewett has been out of action for a while and last battled at the 2021 Olympia in ninth place.
It was a tight competition that eventually saw John Jewett take first place. Diego A. Guerra Montoya had to once again settle for second. Jose Marte finished third with Jason Hebert taking fourth.
Winner — John Jewett
Second Place — Diego A. Guerra Montoya
Third Place — Jose Marte
Fourth Place — Jason Hebert
Fifth Place — Francisco Mercado Jr.
Sixth Place — Shane Stewart
Men’s Physique
The Men’s Physique category just keeps getting stronger and that was certainly the case this weekend. Ismael Dominguez and Jeremy P. Potvin appeared to be fighting for gold. Fans last saw Dominguez shine with incredible conditioning at the 2022 Sheru Classic Mexico Grand Battle where he finished fifth. Potvin’s last competition resulted in a runner-up spot at the recent 2023 Republic of Texas Pro.
After some close comparisons, Jeremy Potvin emerged with the win. Ismael Dominguez put in a strong effort but finished second. Ramses Rams and Rhyan Clark walked away in third and fourth.
Winner — Jeremy P. Potvin
Second Place — Ismael Dominguez
Third Place — Ramses Rams
Fourth Place — Rhyan Clark
Fifth Place — Clarence McSpadden
Sixth Place — Deke Walker
Women’s Physique
Athletes wasted no time battling on stage in the Women’s Physique category. By the time finals were going down, most thought it was a two-woman show between Marika Jones and Amy McKown. Jones is coming off an impressive seventh-place performance at the 2023 Optimum Classic Pro. In her way was McKown, who last shined in the 2023 Omaha Pro as a runner-up.
Ultimately, Amy McKown’s combination of muscularity, conditioning, and symmetry saw her win the show. Meanwhile, Marika Jones took second, with Kristyn Lia and Isabelle Jackson taking spots three and four.
Winner — Amy McKown
Second Place — Marika Jones
Third Place — Kristyn Lia
Fourth Place — Isabelle Jackson
Fifth Place — Kristy McAulliffe
Sixth Place — Renee Reefschlaeger
Seventh Place — Sheena Washington
Eighth Place — Justina Threadgill
Ninth Place — Alison Serbentas
Tenth Place — Heidi Noel Worrell-Osborne
Wellness
The Wellness division is known for exceptional lower body development; this contest was no exception. During prejudging and the finals, Shelby Talon and Johanna Calcano demanded center stage. Talon last appeared on stage at the 2022 NPC National Championships. Calcano’s last competition meanwhile, took place at the 2023 Miami Muscle Beach Pro in third place. Ultimately, Calcano emerged victorious with Shelby Talon taking runner-up.
In addition, Cassandra Pennington earned third, with Edna Ferreira de Souza taking fourth, respectively.
Winner — Johanna Calcano
Second Place — Shelby Talon
Third Place — Cassandra Pennington
Fourth Place — Edna Ferreira de Souza
Fifth Place — Maria Paulette Aranguren
Sixth Place — Michelle Ibata
Bikini
Bikini talent delivered a thrilling show in Atlanta this weekend. Out of the gate, the stage presentation, aesthetics, and slim waist of Tara Grier stood out. She last appeared on stage at the 2023 Republic of Texas Pro with an impressive fifth-place finish. Adair Libbrecht also held her own in comparisons and last competed at the 2023 Republic of Texas Pro in third place.
In the end, Tara Grier earned first place with Adair Libbrecht taking runner-up. In addition, Ashley Hampton finished third, and Savannah Dolezal, fourth.
Winner — Tara Grier
Second Place —Adair Libbrecht
Third Place — Ashley Hampton
Fourth Place — Savannah Dolezal
Fifth Place — Lizzie Martinez
Sixth Place — Jackie Cheney
Seventh Place — Leah Walter
Eighth Place — Alessia Facchin
Ninth Place — Elisangela Angell
Tenth Place — Niccole Guggia
Fitness
As one of the most entertaining divisions in the IFBB Pro League, Fitness competitors delivered during prejudging and finals. Fans and judges agreed it was a fight for first between Allison Kramer and Amber Steffen. Kramer last competed at the 2022 Olympia in ninth while Amber Steffen last graced the 2023 Body BE 1 stage, where she earned runner-up.
Even though it was a close shaw, Amber Steffen came out on top in first place. Allison Kramer was a close second, with Aurika Tyrgale and Annaleise Varga in third and fourth.
Winner — Amber Steffen
Second Place — Allison Kramer
Third Place — Aurika Tyrgale
Fourth Place — Annaleise Varga
Fifth Place — Michelle Gales
Sixth Place — Kristin Pope
Women’s Bodybuilding
With Lenda Murray’s name representing this show, it didn’t take long for judges to take a look at the Women’s Bodybuilding competitors. During prejudging and finals, it was clear Michaela Aycock and MayLa Ash were in the running for first. Aycock last appeared on the 2022 Olympia stage, where she placed sixth. Ash, on the other hand, last finished 11th at last year’s Olympia.
The lower body separation of MayLa Ash carried her to victory tonight, with Michael Aycock taking a close second. The podium rounded out with Selyka Givan in third, while Desunka Dawson finished fourth.
Winner — MayLa Ash
Second Place — Michaela Aycock
Third Place — Selyka Givan
Fourth Place — Desunka Dawson
Fifth Place — LaDawn McDay
Sixth Place — Wendy Sanchez
Seventh Place — Tamara Makar
Figure
The Figure lineup was absolutely stacked on Saturday. Atlanta saw a number of competitors excite the audience with eye-catching looks. One contender, in particular, impressed the moment she stepped on stage, and that was Adela Ondrejovicova. She asserted herself as a threat in prejudging and didn’t let off the gas in the finals versus Shanice Abrams. Ondrejovicova last competed at the 2023 Mr. Big Evolution Pro Portugal, where she placed ninth. Abrams, however, last appeared on the 2022 Olympia stage and finished 14th.
By the end of the contest, Adela Ondrejovicova won gold, with Shanice Abrams taking second. The podium featured Lu Faustin in third, and Mariana Staccioli finished fourth.
Winner — Adela Ondrejovicova
Second Place — Shanice Abrams
Third Place — Lu Faustin
Fourth Place — Mariana Staccioli
Fifth Place — Danielle Barros
Sixth Place — Jossie Alarcon
Seventh Place — Chunmi Kang
Eighth Place — Virgie Santiago Serrano
Ninth Place — Stephanie Caldwell
Tenth Place — Sandee L. Lark
2023 Lenda Murray Atlanta Pro Supershow Scorecards
2023 Lenda Murray Atlanta Pro Classic Physique
2023 Lenda Murray Atlanta Pro Cp
2023 Lenda Murray Atlanta Pro Women S Bodybuilding
2023 Lenda Murray Atlanta Pro Women S Physique
2023 Lenda Murray Atlanta Pro Figure
2023 Lenda Murray Atlanta Pro Bikini
FitnessVolt congratulates the winners. We’re excited to see you shine on the Olympia stage in Nov!