Tag: brandon curry
Phil Heath’s 2022 Mr. Olympia Predictions: Hadi Choopan & Brandon Curry Can Beat Big Ramy
7x Mr. Olympia bodybuilding champ Phil Heath believes Hadi Choopan has the slight edge over Brandon Curry to possibly beat Big Ramy at The 2022 Mr. Olympia.
7x Mr. Olympia Phil Heath has revealed his initial predictions for the 2022 Mr. Olympia. In a recent video interview, Heath goes into detail about the current Olympia lineup and predicts that both Hadi Choopan and Brandon Curry have potential to defeate Big Ramy “if he leaves the door open.” Heath ultimately gives a slight edge to Choopan based on what he’s seen recently.
While it still might be a bit early to be making predictions for the 2022 Mr. Olympia, when a 7x Mr. Olympia legend speaks – you start to listen. In prep for his upcoming commentary duties this year, Phil Heath took part in an extensive interview discussing the current Olympia lineup and who has the most potential to win the trophy. He gives a deep analysis of Big Ramy and also his thoughts on the few who could possibly disrupt his reign.
There has been much talk about the rising tide of young bodybuilders finally coming into their own. Nick Walker has been the most hyped rising star – with some even believing the can take the entire Olympia title this year. Other notable mentions are Hunter Labrada, Andrew Jacked, and newcomer Michal Krizo – who has yet to earn his IFBB Pro card but is hyped by many including Jay Cutler.
However, at this moment, Phil Heath still believes that the old guard will hold onto their positions this year. Heath acknowledges the strong and deep talent of the young rising stars – but believes that last year’s top three will still be the ones to bring the most heat. Specifically, he believes that Hadi Choopan and Brandon Curry are the two best bets to win the 2022 Mr. Olympia – that is if Big Ramy slips up.
You can check out the full video below:
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Phil Heath’s predictions on who can defeat Big Ramy at the 2022 Mr. Olympia
Phil Heath starts off discussing Big Ramy himself – who he still believes is the top contender to win the Mr. Olympia this year. He only believes that Ramy will fall behind if he “leaves the door open.” What does he mean by that? Not making enough improvements. Heath – like many other bodybuilders – acknowledges that the judges expect a returning Olympia champion to not only look the same but look even better than the previous year. If Ramy can’t pull that off, he leaves the door open for others to slip in.
This led to Phil Heath being asked who could possibly take down Big Ramy if he left that door open. Heath sticks with consistency and looks towards the top placings last year – Hadi Choopan and Brandon Curry.
“You gotta go with the top three. You got to go with Brandon and Hadi. That was who was in the mix last year. I would say based on what I saw recently, Hadi. I’m not biased because I’ve worked with Hany. That dude has some serious muscle. All it takes is for Ramy to slip. We saw that happen last year. He wasn’t better than when he won his first one.”
However, Phil Heath also points out that there is a world of difference between seeing a physique in person versus in photos or video. Heath hasn’t seen every single of the top contenders in person – which he admits creates a wild card in his predictions.
“Usually, if you leave the door open for two years, things can happen right. This is what sucks by not being there live and just seeing pictures and some video. I haven’t seen Nick Walker in person. I’ve not seen him compete in person. Of course, you’re going to lean towards him being a disruptor. No question about it. I believe he is the youngest disruptor out of anyone in the world.”
Phil Heath points out Nick Walker as having real potential to disrupt this year’s Mr. Olympia. But he falls short of saying he could win – in part because he has not seen Walker in person himself.
Phil Heath shares his opinion of Michal Krizo’s physique
Phil Heath also touches base on the latest hyped athlete of the season – Michal Krizo. Originally an IFBB Elite Pro competitor, Krizo recently announced he would be moving to the IFBB Pro league. He has yet to earn his pro card but the hype is so strong with him that some believe he will become pro and qualify for Mr. Olympia in time to compete in 2022.
While Heath sees why Krizo has earned the hype, he also thinks that it’s too soon to really expect him to do any major damage this year. Phil Heath believes that Michal Krizo still has some holes in his physique.
“What I saw, he [Michal Krizo] looked great. When he was at Gold’s Venice and Jay was with him and stuff, I thought he looked really good, but I do see holes in the physique. I see holes in everything right. I think he definitely needs to work on his presentation. Even when you research his contest videos, he can’t hold poses very long. Just look at the tape.”
It’s fantastic to see Phil Heath really take on the role of a bodybuilding analyst (and future commentator) for the sport of bodybuilding. His thoughtful analysis of the current lineup of competitors is exactly the kind of conversation that helps raise the stakes for the upcoming Mr. Olympia.
That being said, Phil Heath may be commentating this year – but that doesn’t mean he won’t be returning to compete again. He has been silent about any plans but a recent post claiming, “I ain’t done yet. I’m just getting started,” gives fans hope that he will hit the stage again in the future.
Stay tuned to the Generation Iron Fitness Network for more news and updates on all things bodybuilding as we get closer to the 2022 Mr. Olympia.
PHOTOS: Brandon Curry Guest Posing At The 2022 Pittsburgh Pro
Photo via Instagram @mindtomuscle.in
Brandon Curry gives fans a first look preview of his physique since the 2022 Arnold Classic
Brandon Curry took the stage for an epic guest posing routine at the 2022 Pittsburgh Pro – which was held this past weekend on May 7, 2022. The posing routine gave fans their first on-stage look of Curry since his victory at the 2022 Arnold Classic. Curry posed alongside Nick Walker, Hunter Labrada, and current Mr. Olympia champion Big Ramy.
The Pittsburgh Pro is one of the more notable pro bodybuilding competitions of the year. This is due to the star studded guest posing routines that grace the stage in celebration of Jim Manion – president of the IFBB Pro and NPC league. Typically the biggest names in bodybuilding showcase their physiques on stage – including the current Mr. Olympia champion. This weekend was no different.
Most notable about Brandon Curry’s guest posing routine is that he would be showcasing his physique on the same night as Big Ramy. Ramy narrowly defeated Curry at the 2021 Mr. Olympia competition. So this is our first time seeing both Curry and Ramy on stage back to back. While they are both still in the off season – this gives fans a progress update on their training leading into the Olympia later this year.
You can see photos of Brandon Curry’s guest posing routine here:
Brandon Curry won the Mr. Olympia title in 2019 but has been since shut out by Big Ramy over the past two years. However, with each competition Curry has slowly but steadily improved. In fact, his 2021 Mr. Olympia appearance might have been his beast yet – but was unable to edge past Big Ramy’s massive size.
Earlier this year, Brandon Curry competed in the 2022 Arnold Classic – where he faced off against William Bonac. The two were neck and neck for the entire weekend. Many predicted the win would go to Bonac. Ultimately, Curry took the first place prize. Since then, he has been focusing on prepping for the Mr. Olympia later this year in December. Of course, with a pitstop appearance at the Pittsburgh Pro.
Brandon Curry is one of the top names in contention to defeat Big Ramy at the 2022 Mr. Olympia. His consistency of his physique leaves fans confident that he can still be a true threat – especially if he further improves by this winter.
With the Mr. Olympia still seven months away, a lot can change from this guest posing routine and the final product. Only time will tell if Brandon Curry will step up and overcome Big Ramy or not. And that’s not accounting for the rising tide of younger athletes turning heads such as Nick Walker and Hunter Labrada. It will certainly be an interesting and exciting season of bodybuilding as it continues to unfold.
Make sure to stay tuned to the Generation Iron Fitness Network for more updates on all things bodybuilding, fitness, and strength sports!
Brandon Curry Profile & Stats
The biography, life, and accomplishments of Brandon Curry
Photo via @brandon_curry Instagram
Brandon Curry is a professional bodybuilder with an absolutely massive and shredded physique. With tons of competitions under his belt, he was the 2019 Mr. Olympia champion cementing his place in bodybuilding history.
Below is a complete breakdown of Brandon Curry’s profile, stats, biography, training and diet regimens.
Full Name: Brandon Curry
Weight
Height
Date Of Birth
255-260 lbs.
5’8’’
10/19/1982
Profession
Era
Nationality
Bodybuilder
2000, 2010
American
Photo via @brandon_curry Instagram
Biography
Born in Tennessee, Brandon Curry was always active and was encouraged to be as active as possible. He started lifting at a young age and would soon become enthralled with fitness and everything that came with it. By the time he got to college, he knew he wanted to be involved with this as a career and continued his education with a focus on health and fitness.
He started as a personal trainer and then transitioned into bodybuilding, first competing in 2003 and then turning pro in 2008. From there, Curry has had an amazing career, competing in show after show and placing first at top contests like the Arnold Classic Brazil, New Zealand Pro, Arnold Classic Australia, Arnold Classic, and the 2019 Mr. Olympia contest. In 2020 and 2021, he finished with an impressive second at Mr. Olympia as well.
Aside from his bodybuilding career, Curry is also a family man who is married with four children and he also runs a supplements company called Scitec Nutrition.
Photo via @brandon_curry Instagram
Training
When it comes to training, Brandon hits the gym about five times per week and is always looking for the best way to put on muscle. It is important for him to change up his routine once in a while and this will involve weightlifting, HIIT, and full body circuits. While he does enjoy working legs and back, judging by his physique, every muscle gets plenty of work done.
Chest & Bicep Workout
While the sets and reps are not mentioned for this chest and biceps workout, these exercises are great to try and can certainly give you a serious pump.
Chest Exercises
Incline Smith Machine Press
High Incline Standard Grip Machine Press
High Incline Neutral Grip Machine Press
Flat Unilateral Plate Loaded Bench Press Machine
Standing Machine Decline Press
Chest Machine Press
Seated Cable Flyes Superset (Upper & Lower)
Bicep Exercises
Standing Cable Curls
Unilateral Motion Seat Cable Curls
Plate Loaded Iso-Lateral Curls
Plate Loaded One-Arm Machine Preacher Curls
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Nutrition
Brandon is always fueling his body and typically eats upwards of 6-8 meals per day. These consist of whole foods and the right balance of macronutrients in order to see real gains and to stay healthy overall. Foods in his diet are things like lean meats, rice, oats, sweet potatoes, fruits, vegetables, and plenty of nuts. He does, of course, have cheat meals now and then.
Supplementation
While Brandon uses his own supplements of choice, there are some staple products in a bodybuilder’s routine to take note of that can serve you well. A protein powder is great for seeing gains and working to pump you with protein to aid in muscle growth, recovery, and even weight loss.
For those pre-workout needs, looking to pre-workout supplements will provide energy and muscle pumps so you can take full advantage of every workout. Of course, a shredded aesthetic is the end goal and looking to fat burners can kickstart your metabolism, suppress your appetite, and allow for more calorie burn to give you the best benefits possible.
Competition History
2022 Arnold Classic, 1st
2021 Mr. Olympia, 2nd
2020 Mr. Olympia, 2nd
2019 Mr. Olympia, 1st
2019 Arnold Classic, 1st
2018 Mr. Olympia, 5th
2017 Ferrigno Legacy, 1st
2017 Mr. Olympia, 8th
2017 Arnold Classic Australia, 1st
2017 New Zealand Pro, 1st
2015 Arnold Classic, 16th
2013 Arnold Classic Brazil, 1st
2012 Arnold Classic, 7th
2011 Mr. Olympia, 8th
2010 Pro Bodybuilding Weekly Championship, 6th
2010 Europa Super Show, 8th
2008 NPC USA Championships, 1st
2007 NPC USA Championships, 2nd
2006 NPC Junior National Championships, 2nd
2003 Supernatural Bodybuilding, 1st
Brandon Curry Shares Full Day Of Eating During Olympia Prep
Current Arnold Classic champ Brandon Curry is preparing for a big showing at the 2022 Olympia.
Brandon Curry continues to be one of the best bodybuilders in the Men’s Open division. As he prepares for the 2022 Olympia in December, Curry recently took viewers through a full day of eating to share his Olympia diet plan.
Curry stepped on stage during the Arnold Classic in March as the favorite to take home the prize. He ended up as champion and this set the stage for a big season full of preparation to get back to the very top of the sport. Curry was named Mr. Olympia in 2019 before finishing as the runner-up in back-to-back years to Big Ramy.
Brandon Curry was featured in an interview on Men’s Health’s YouTube page where he laid out his full diet plan during preparation. The Olympia is set to return to Las Vegas from Dec. 15-18.
Brandon Curry Diet Plan
Brandon Curry began this interview by discussing the importance of this Olympia. With his recent Arnold Classic victory, Curry is aiming to take home the two biggest bodybuilding titles in one year. This would be the second time in his career that he would accomplish that feat.
Curry discussed his methods when figuring out his meal plan and it does not consist of counting calories. Instead, he finds it important to measure out his portions on a scale.
“Everything is measured by scale weight. So, I mean, anywhere from 200 grams on the scale to 200 grams of protein per meal and then for carbohydrates, that can go all the way up to 400 grams to all the way down to nothing in some meals.”
Meal 1
350 grams potatoes
200-220 grams chicken
2-3 eggs
Meal 2 – Pre-Workout
Chicken
200-300 grams rice
Meal 3 – Post Workout
Salmon or steak
250 grams sweet potatoes o greens
Meal 4
220 grams chicken
200-250 grams rice
Meal 5
220 grams salmon or steak
salad
Meal 6
220 grams fish
salad
200 grams rice (optional)
There are some variables within this diet that can change. Brandon Curry explained how he will change some aspects depending on where he is in training. This includes staying away from fiber when he is high on carbs and opting for a lean protein once he is further into his preparation.
“Typically when I am high on the carbs, I stay away from the fiber for digestion. I don’t want to be too full. The fiber slows everything down. Fullness is the enemy when you’re trying to get in a lot of calories.”
And of course, he ended by discussing what a typical cheat meal looks like. Curry admitted to indulging in a burger, French fries, and an apple pie on certain occasions. While he is preparing for the Olympia, his cheat meal will usually be sushi.
The calendar has turned to April and that means the Olympia is about eight months away. Brandon Curry knows what it takes to be on top of his game and that is what fans can expect come December.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Brandon Curry Shares Physique Update Two Days Out From 2022 Arnold Classic
Brandon Curry decided to give one final physique update before taking the stage at the 2022 Arnold Classic.
The 2022 Arnold Classic is just two days away but it is never too late for athletes to share physique updates. This time, it is Brandon Curry who took to social media to show the progress he has made heading into the competition.
The event will take place from March 3-6 in Columbus, OH. Heading into the Men’s Open show, Curry is considered the favorite to be named champion. This is an event that he has been training hard for and it shows in his latest physique update.
“Typical bodybuilder…posing with my pants down in the gym again…?
On a more serious note…
I put my heart and soul into this @arnoldsportsprep and i enjoyed every minute of it! This one was special!”
The photo was taken by Middle House, was was able to capture the progress of Curry in a big way. It is clear that Brandon Curry has honed in on improvements needed in the offseason.
Curry has been near the top of Men’s Open for years now. He was crowned Mr. Olympia in 2019 and has finished as the runner-up in two consecutive years. Curry will look to gain his title back from Big Ramy, but first, he has his sights set on the Arnold Classic title.
“It’s looking like my team @abdullah_fs_alotaibi@ahmad_alnaqi1 and I are on track to bring all bodybuilding fans whether they’re my fans or someone else’s fan something to appreciate.
Experience is the greatest teacher.
Now it’s time to finish filling out these round and brown muscle bellies!!! ???”
When the official lineup came out, Curry was considered the favorite right away. Since December, there have been many names pulling out of the conversation.
Cedric McMillan is the most recent to withdraw from the competition. He revealed that stomach issues will keep him from competing but he will still be part of the event in some capacity. Rafael Brandao withdrew from the competition for undisclosed reasons back in January followed by Nathan De Asha and Mohamed Shaaban, who were forced to pull out due to injuries. Akim Williams will also not appear on stage as scheduled.
Brandon Curry has put in the work and there are just two days until he can show it off on stage. The Arnold Classic is set to be an exciting event with Men’s Open headlining once again.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
10 Best Calves: Who Has The Best Calves In Bodybuilding?
Here is a list of the 10 best calves in bodybuilding.
When we look at those bodybuilders we love, we see all of those massive vanity muscles but may neglect to check out their calves. Calves are a sign that you value leg day and don’t settle for an average physique. Working your lower half and putting special emphasis on your calves lets everyone know you mean business. For those of us who compete, it makes no sense to skip out on our calves.
If you tend to slack in the gym when it comes to building those calves, looking at these professionals will most definitely get you to reconsider. With the right training plan to target your calves, you can be on your way to seeing serious calf growth like these pro bodybuilders themselves. If you’ve ever wondered who has the best calves in bodybuilding, look no further than here and check these bodybuilders who know just what’s up
We’ve put together a list of the 10 best calves in bodybuilding so you have an image of what it takes to compete at the highest of levels. With the right approach to training, nutrition, and supplementation, you not only will have a lower body that others will envy, but your calves will be something extraordinary. So, without delaying anymore, let’s take a look at the 10 best calves for bodybuilding.
10 Best Calves In Bodybuilding
Big Ramy
Big Ramy is your most recent Olympia champion, taking home the title in 2021 and defending his win from 2020. He earned his pro card in 2012 and has been a force ever since. His calves are massive and lend credence to his back-to-back Olympia wins, on top of all the other muscles he works incredibly hard.
Brandon Curry
Brandon Curry took home Mr. Olympia’s top prize in 2019, preceding Big Ramy. Curry was a football player early in his career and since transitioning to bodybuilding has made his name as an incredible muscular specimen. With a killer workout plan, his calves are ones to envy and show just what it takes to continue to compete at a high level.
Kai Greene
Kai Greene is a well-known bodybuilder who loves to have fun while also looking huge. He has quite a few runner-up finishes, but that hasn’t stopped him from being anything short of dominant. Starring in Generation Iron, fans got to see how he works out and how his revolutionary approach to bodybuilding has produced massive calves.
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Jay Cutler
Jay Cutler is a four-time Olympia winner and someone to envy for he is absolutely massive. Appearing in magazines, starting his own company, and being an open supporter of bodybuilding as the sport it is came from hard work and dedication and the way he trains is nothing short of intense. His calf muscles pop and when he turns around, we all certainly see them, and most likely envy them.
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Phil Heath
Phil Heath is a huge name in bodybuilding with seven Olympia wins under his belt. His overall physique has earned him the reputation of being one of the most muscular men on the planet and by the looks of his calves, together with his overall physique, it is no wonder why. Heath remains a massive name and one that both aspiring and professional bodybuilders look up to.
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William Bonac
William Bonac is incredibly humble, an impressive trait considering his monster calves. He is always in the top finishing spots in competitions, and he continues to live up to his nickname as “The Conqueror” while remaining a down-to-Earth competitor. Although he may fall short of those top podium spots, his physique, and especially his calves, are not ones to take lightly.
Chris Bumstead
Chris Bumstead is an absolute force in the Classic Physique division with three Olympia wins. His shredded physique is impressive, but so too are his calves. His workouts prove that he is constantly challenging himself to see the best gains possible.
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Dorian Yates
Dorian Yates, or known by some as the original mass monster, revolutionized bodybuilding with his intense style of training and sheer will to lift massive amounts of weight. A six-time Olympia winner, Yates is considered one of the best in the sport among many of the other top names we all know and love. When he turns around, especially in his prime, his calves are huge and incredibly hard to miss.
Hadi Choopan
Hadi Choopan turns around and the first thing you see are those strong and impressive calves. His resume is extensive and his will to win is something to be feared. His approach to training is one that keeps him at a high level and he never neglects those calf muscles, thus giving him the ability to continue to stalk the stage with these other bodybuilding giants.
Nick Walker
Nick Walker, like all on this list, has an impressive bodybuilding resume and recently joined the list of those big names to win the Arnold Classic. He loves machine exercises and that lends credence to the sheer size of his massive calf muscles and lower body as a whole. Known as “The Mutant”, he is not one to be messed with when it comes to comparing muscle size.
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Wrap Up
Working our calves is something that cannot be understated. By giving yourself the benefit of taking leg day seriously, you beef up your lower half and give those calf muscles time to grow. With the right training, nutrition, and supplementation, you allow yourself the benefit of seeing seriously muscle growth, so when you turn around, others have no choice but to envy you. Hopefully this list of the best calves in bodybuilding inspires you to want to see serious growth, for what they can do for your overall physique is nothing short of impressive.
What do you think of this list? Are these the 10 best calves in bodybuilding, or does someone else impress you even more?
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Brandon Curry Shows Improved Leg Development 4 Weeks Out
Brandon Curry shows impressive leg development.
Brandon Curry shows some pretty impressive leg development 4 weeks out from the Arnold Classic. The former Olympia champion recently dropped a video showing off his much improved wheels.
It appears that the 2019 Olympia champion is looking to show that he’s still top flight competition. Brandon Curry has always been an impressive competitor and athlete, yet it seems some people have have forgotten. Big Ramy’s victories at the 2020 and 2022 Olympia have solidified him as the man to beat in bodybuilding. But not too long ago that honor belonged to Curry. Now he’s hoping to remind everyone who he is at the Arnold Classic.
Brandon Curry has been hard at work prepping for his return to the stage. It’s obvious that in order to topple Big Ramy, Curry will have to make some adjustments to his physique. While putting on muscle isn’t the only key to defeating the reigning Olympia champion, it can’t hurt for Ramy to add some mass on his frame. From his recent Instagram post it appears that Curry has taken that notion to heart.
Improved Leg Development
I’m his most recent post Brandon Curry showcased his physique while in camp for the Arnold Classic. While the exact date of the video has yet to be confirmed, Curry clarified that it was indeed taken during his prep for the upcoming mega event in March. From what can be seen in the video post Curry has done well to improve upon his leg development.
?UNDER CONSTRUCTION ?
Alright alright…I won’t say exactly when this video was from, but I will say that it’s from this prep. When this video was taken it was on an empty stomach post morning cardio so I was flat. ?
@arnoldsports I’LL BE BACK
Brandon Curry isn’t going anywhere and he still has great potential for improvement. Could he be a favorite to win the 2022 Arnold Classic?
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
News and Editorial Writer at Generation Iron, Jonathan Salmon is a writer, martial arts instructor, and geek culture enthusiast. Check out his YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and Sound Cloud for in-depth MMA analysis.
10 Best Backs In Bodybuilding & On The Internet
Here is a list of the 10 best backs in bodybuilding, also seen on social media!
Bodybuilders are all around impressive mass monsters, however, those with massive backs need to be applauded. While so many people work their front, really beefing up their chests, biceps, and abs, it is an incredible disservice to neglect your back. A massive back can be an impressive sight and these bodybuilders certainly know how to get it done.
If you slack off in the gym and neglect your back, these will definitely put yours to shame. As Olympia competitors and seriously dedicated athletes, what it takes to have a back like this is something else. So, if you’ve ever wondered who has the best backs in bodybuilding, we’ve done the hard work for you by putting it all in one place.
10 Best Backs In Bodybuilding
1. Big Ramy
Mamdouh “Big Ramy” Elssbiay is an Egyptian bodybuilder and two-time Olympia winner, taking first back-to-back in 2020 and 2021. Since earning his pro card in 2012, he has been nothing but dominant on the pro circuit. His workouts and strict attention to detail have produced a massive back and one clearly worthy of back-to-back Olympia titles.
2. Brandon Curry
Brandon Curry took home the Mr. Olympia title in 2019, just before Big Ramy began his amazing run. As a football player early on, Curry had a physique waiting to be unleashed and his thick muscular appearance lends credence to his massive back.
3. Kai Greene
Kai Greene is one of the bodybuilders to envy and his overall physique lets his back pop. As an Olympia competitor with loads of runner-up finishes, his breakout role in Generation Iron gave fans an insight into Kai and his amazing work ethic. He seeks to create a revolutionary approach to bodybuilding to constantly improve the sport.
4. Phil Heath
Phil Heath is a seven-time Olympia winner with a reputation for being one of the most muscular men on the planet. Overall, Phil is massive and his approach to training is something that pro and aspiring bodybuilders can strive towards.
5. Hadi Choopan
Hadi Choopan has an impressive bodybuilding resume and is a force to be reckoned with. When he turns around, his back is something to envy and as a constant competitor in the pro circuit, his approach to training only continues gains to his back and overall physique.
6. Hunter Labrada
Hunter Labrada has found a great routine over the years working to reduce his volume at times and allowing his body to catch up to his intense training routines. With a massive back to prove his physique is competition worthy, this bodybuilder is a force on the pro circuit when he turns around.
7. Nick Walker
Nick Walker joined the list of big names to win the Arnold Classic, among other competitions, and his giant back is just one of his many physical attributes. With a focus on machine exercises, Nick continues to build a bigger back so those pop every chance they can.
8. William Bonac
William Bonac has a humble attitude and drive to be the best and his top three finishes in many competitions proves his hard work. When he turns around, it separates him from other notable pros and his nickname as “The Conqueror” certainly becomes reality.
9. Chris Bumstead
Chris Bumstead is a three-time Olympia champ in the Classic Physique division and continues to amaze with his shredded aesthetic. He is constantly changing up his back routine to challenge his muscles and continue to build an amazing back for all to envy.
10. Andrea Shaw
Andrea Shaw is a two-time Ms. Olympia winner with wins in 2020 and 2021. Her approach to training has kept her dominant on the pro circuit and her shredded back is something all aspiring bodybuilders can aim for.
Wrap Up
Building a massive back is something to not take for granted. When you turn around, people should envy your entire physique. For those of us who work their biceps, chest, abs, and others impressive muscles, the back is one of those things that can make or break results. These bodybuilders have amazing and impressive backs and put a real emphasis on building these muscles so they can continue dominance on the professional level.
What do you think? Do these backs live up to the hype?
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Milos Sarcev: Today’s Bodybuilders Are Going Too Easy On Leg Day Training
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Milos Sarcev believes “legs are so very easy” but modern bodybuilders are not pushing hard enough.
Never skip leg day is a phrase that is often repeated in the world of bodybuilding. This is due to the fact that many weightlifters and even bodybuilders can make the vital mistake of overlooking leg training. It’s a problem that has in the past also knocked competitive bodybuilders down a few placings. Most recently, Brandon Curry was criticized for having weak legs at the Olympia 2021. Many believe it was the key factor in placing him second as opposed to overtaking Big Ramy for first place. In our latest GI Exclusive interview, legendary bodybuilding coach Milos Sarcev discusses the recent trend in leg day training within bodybuilding.
During our recent video conversation with Milos Sarcev, the topic of Brandon Curry was brought up. More specifically, his showing at the Mr. Olympia 2021. Curry placed second – meaning second best athlete in the world. Despite this – he received some online criticism for the state of his legs. Many thought that they were not only his weak point but also so weak that they were undeserving of the Olympia stage. Does this criticism have some truth to it? Or is it more over-exaggerated online hate.
Milos Sarcev cannot account for every specific comment made online – but he does believe that the general criticism has some validity. He does agree that Brandon Curry’s legs are a weak point for him. Sarcev says this, even as he admits that Curry was his second favorite physique at the Olympia 2021 stage.
What Milos Sarcev sees is an imbalance in bodybuilding. Brandon Curry is and his legs are a perfect example of this imbalance. Sarcev 100% believes that Curry belonged on the Olympia stage. But he does see a vast quality difference between the rest of his body and his legs. The rest of his physique was enough to overpower the weaknesses. It earned him a well deserved second place at Mr. Olympia. That being said, the imbalance showcases where priorities are for pro bodybuilders as a whole.
Milos Sarcev believes that modern bodybuilders are going too easy when it comes to leg day training. In fact, he thinks that leg day training is easy. There is no secret. There is no challenge for legs more than other body parts. The problem is more that bodybuilders simply don’t enjoy training legs. So they go easy. This is the big problem as Sarcev sees it.
“I see this and I stand behind it. Whoever wants to develop legs they can. Legs are so very easy to put the load on the quads if you want it,” Milos Sarcev states in our interview. He continues:
“If you want to go to the gym to socialize, to make it look like you’re training, to do some leg presses, to do some – you know what? No… I cannot go to the gym now-a-days and see someone squat… they are going easy, the easy way. So if you want to build the legs, have you ever heard of squats? Can you try them, please?”
It should be noted that his experience is purely anecdotal. But he also sees the proof in the pudding. Far too often he sees talented pro bodybuilders with lagging legs. From what he sees in the gym, it’s due to a change in effort.
“I like to be sarcastic and people will call me names,” Sarcev goes on to state. “But I speak the language. I speak the truth.”
Milos Sarcev further explains his statement. He believes that the new modern era of bodybuilders are playing it too safe. They avoid squats to protect their knees and avoid injury. But in doing so – they are also pushing their bodies less hard. They are losing out on vital elements of leg day.
“That’s why the people I will train – I will not babysit them,” Milos Sarcev explains. “I will not accept their excuses. I mean when you have a twenty something year old guy say, ‘Oh, my knees!’ I didn’t even feel my knees until 40 years of age… they all think it’s overtraining.”
You can watch Milos Sarcev’s full comments on Brandon Curry and leg day training in our latest GI Exclusive interview segment above!
Brandon Curry’s Coach Abdullah Alotaibi Unhappy With 2021 Olympia Judging
Abdullah Alotaibi is critical of Olympia judging after Brandon Curry’s second-place finish.
Every great bodybuilder has plenty of people around them to get to the top of the sport. This includes a coach who keeps them on track every step of the way. For Brandon Curry, that coach is Abdullah Alotaibi. The two have been working together for years now as Curry has turned into an elite competitor in bodybuilding.
Curry reached the pinnacle in 2019 by taking home the title of Mr. Olympia. Over the previous two years, Curry has finished second to Big Ramy and this is something that Alotaibi is not happy about. On Thursday, the bodybuilding coach took to Instagram to voice some criticisms with recent judging at the Olympia.
“In 2019, after Brandon won the Olympia, i asked one of the top guys what should i do/improve Brandon to keep winning the olympia, what adjustments should we make; he told me to bring him very lean and shredded, we did just that and still lost in 2020.Then asked them what adjustments should we make to bring back the title they told me to bring him bigger, which we did. This year Brandon was 15lb heavier and still lost.
I don’t know what they need as they keep changing things around”
Abdullah Alotaibi’s major frustration came because he followed advice from judges and it was still not enough. He claimed that prior to the 2020 competition, he was told to have Brandon Curry Len and shredded. Prior to last weekend in Orlando, Alotaibi was advised to add some size. While the duo reached each goal, neither was good enough to get back to the top of the sport.
The sport of bodybuilding is transitioning to favor mass monsters with incredible conditioning. That exactly what Big Ramy is. He weighed in at 305 pounds during the Olympia press conference and seemed like a difficult candidate to beat. During the prejudging round, it was clear that Brandon Curry was right there with him.
Despite recent frustrations from his coach, Curry did not have any regrets after his performance this year. He recently took to Instagram to address the Olympia.
“I FELL SHORT ACCORDING TO THE JUDGES, BUT I HAVE ZERO REGRETS BECAUSE I DID MY ABSOLUTE BEST AND THE REST WAS IN THEIR HANDS.TO BE IN THE TOP 2 IN THE WORLD FOR 3 CONSECUTIVE YEARS IS MY HISTORICAL MOMENT FOR THE YEAR. EACH YEAR I FIND SOMETHING SIGNIFICANT IN THE OUTCOME AND THAT WAS THAT MOMENT FOR ME,’ Brandon Curry wrote.
It is not surprising to see Abdullah Alotaibi frustrated over another second-place finish but now it is back to the drawing board for Curry. He will continue to be one of the top competitors in the world moving forward and will undoubtedly be back on that Olympia stage next year.
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