Tag: Featured
21 Famous Black Bodybuilders That Broke Stereotypes and Achieved Greatness
Bodybuilders of color are a dominating force in the professional bodybuilding circuit. However, this was not always the case.
Black bodybuilders emerged from diverse backgrounds and rewrote the narrative to enter the upper echelons of pro bodybuilding. In the face of historical prejudice and limited opportunities, these trailblazers not only made a mark in the sport but also paved the way for future generations.
Each bodybuilder on this list has a story to tell. Most came from humble beginnings and became household names in the bodybuilding industry thanks to their determination, resilience, and unwavering dedication. These bodybuilders inspire countless individuals to pursue their dreams, irrespective of the hurdles that lie ahead.
This article celebrates 21 black bodybuilders that challenged the status quo. We go over their accomplishments and legacies. Through this article, you will also learn about some landmark moments in professional competitive bodybuilding.
Note: Although many non-white bodybuilders have made it big in the IFBB Pro League (the biggest international bodybuilding federation), I will limit this list to black bodybuilders.
21 Most Prominent Black Bodybuilders of All Time
Here are the most famous black bodybuilders and why they deserve a place on this list:
Leroy Colbert
Like many other sports, competitive bodybuilding was a white man’s sport in the early days. That was until Colbert showed up. Born in 1933, Colbert competed in several amateur contests in the early 1950s.
Colbert was a trailblazer in numerous ventures. He was the first black man to be featured on the cover of the Muscle Power magazine. The African-American bodybuilder was also on the cover of several Weider magazines and won the Mr. New York City (1952) and Mr. Eastern America (1953) titles. Remember, this was all before the 1960 Civil Rights Movement.
Colbert is also credited with being the first man to develop 21-inch arms. The lifelong drug-free bodybuilder was inducted into the IFBB Hall of Fame in 2003.
A bike accident that nearly severed his foot ended Colbert’s bodybuilding career. However, his experience working in a Weider warehouse equipped him with the knowledge to open his own supplement stores, where he made a small fortune for himself. He died at the age of 82.
Sergio Oliva
Oliva is one the most famous bodybuilders of all time. The Cuban bodybuilder was known for his immaculate muscle mass, symmetry, muscle separation, proportions, and density.
Oliva’s first major bodybuilding contest in the US was the 1964 AAU Mr America. However, Oliva had to switch from Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) to the International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness (IFBB), as it was clear that the former federation had racist undertones and would never allow Oliva to be crowned Mr. America.
The transition paid off as Oliva won the 1966 Mr. World and the coveted Mr. Olympia title in 1967, 1968, and 1969.
Interestingly, Oliva was one of three bodybuilders that defeated Arnold Schwarzenegger in a bodybuilding contest. The three-time Mr. Olympia champ Frank Zane and Chester Yorton are the other two bodybuilders.
Seven other black bodybuilders have won the Mr. Olympia crown ever since. At the time of writing, the eight black bodybuilders hold a total of 30 Sandow trophies among them from the possible 58, proving the dominance of black bodybuilders in the sport.
Oliva died at the age of 71 in 2012 due to an apparent kidney failure. He was the first Olympia champion to have died.
Chris Dickerson
Dickerson was one of the most controversial Mr. Olympia champions of all time. He was the first African-American AAU Mr. America (1970) and IFBB Mr. Olympia (1982) champion. Dickerson was also the first openly-gay bodybuilder to win these prestigious titles.
Although the crowd favorite to win the 1981 Mr. Olympia, Dickerson was denied the title in favor of an injured Franco Columbu, who had come out of retirement to compete at the show. Colombu’s win was “one of the worst decisions in bodybuilding,” said Frank Zane in an interview after the show. Dickerson later acknowledged that his sexual orientation and being black were barriers to his bodybuilding career.
He is also one of the two bodybuilders (besides Dexter Jackson) to win the Mr. Olympia and Masters Olympia titles. Dickerson was inducted into the IFBB Hall of Fame in 2000. He died at the age of 82 due to heart failure.
Next Read: 21 Bodybuilders Who Died of Heart Attack
Lee Haney
Haney holds the record for winning the most Mr. Olympia titles. He won the Sandow trophy for eight consecutive years between 1984 and 1991. Haney is considered one of the most dominant Mr. Olympia champs of all time and is credited for introducing the mass monster era in the IFBB. He was hands-down the biggest bodybuilder of his generation and dwarfed his competitors on stage.
Haney was the chairman of the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports during President Bill Clinton’s term. Haney was inducted into the International Sports Hall of Fame in 2014.
Ronnie Coleman
Although Coleman had a lukewarm start to his professional bodybuilding career, he turned around his physique within a few years. He matched Haney’s record of eight-consecutive Mr. Olympia title wins (1998-2005). His sheer size and dominating stage presence earned him the moniker “The King,” cementing his place in the all-time greats list.
Coleman was the first Mr. Olympia champion to break the 300-pound barrier. “Big Ron” was known for his high-volume and high-intensity workouts. He released six training DVDs, which were a hit among bodybuilding aficionados.
Coleman was inducted into the International Sports Hall of Fame in 2016 for his bodybuilding legacy, a remarkable achievement for someone who worked at Domino’s Pizza after graduating from college. He served as a police officer from 1989 to 2000 and as a reserve officer until 2003.
Phil Heath
Phil Heath arguably has the best genetics of all time in pro bodybuilding. He was dubbed “The Gift” because of his perfect shape, symmetry, and proportions. His round and full muscle bellies added to his physique’s illusion and made him look bigger than he actually was.
Heath matched Schwarzenegger’s record of seven Mr. Olympia title wins. The Gift hoisted the Sandow trophy for seven consecutive years (2011-2017). Heath’s dynamic personality played a vital role in taking the sport of bodybuilding to a bigger audience.
Dexter Jackson
Jackon is arguably the most conditioned bodybuilder of the modern era. He is billed as “The Blade” for his deep and well-defined lines. Jackson made waves in the pro bodybuilding circuit by defeating the dominant mass monster Jay Cutler in 2008 to bag his maiden (and only) Olympia gold medal.
Jackson holds multiple bodybuilding records, making his legacy one of the hardest to beat. The Blade has 29 pro show wins to his name, the most for a male pro bodybuilder. Besides being one of the two bodybuilders to win Mr. Olympia and Masters Olympia titles, Jackson is the winningest Arnold Classic champion (the second-most prestigious bodybuilding title), having won the title in 2005, 2006, 2008, 2013, and 2015. Finally, Jackson has 20 Mr. Olympia appearances, the most for a male pro bodybuilder.
Shawn Rhoden
The late Shawn Rhoden of Jamaica unseated the seven-time Olympia champ Phil Heath to win the Sandow trophy in 2018. The package Rhoden brought to the Olympia stage that year made many bodybuilding pundits acknowledge that he was one of the most aesthetically appealing bodybuilders ever. Rhoden was 43 years old when he conquered the Olympia throne, making him the oldest bodybuilder to win the title.
The “Flexatron” passed away tragically in 2021 from a heart attack. In Jul. 2019, Rhoden was charged with sexually assaulting a female protege in 2018. The Olympia promoters at the time banned Rhoden from competing at the 2019 Mr. Olympia and future contests.
Shawn Ray
Shawn “Sugar” Ray was one of his era’s most balanced and conditioned bodybuilders. The 5-foot-6 bodybuilder only failed once to place in the top five in over 30 bodybuilding competitions. He beat bodybuilders much bigger than him in size, earning him the moniker “The Giant Killer.”
Ray won the 1990 Arnold Classic but was stripped of the title after he failed a doping test. However, he returned to the 1991 AC with a vengeance and won the gold medal. Ray has two Olympia runner-up finishes (1994 and 1996).
Flex Wheeler
Kenneth “Flex” Wheeler is arguably the most aesthetically appealing bodybuilder of all time. Schwarzenegger referred to Wheeler as the greater bodybuilder he had ever seen. Although Wheeler won the Arnold Classic title four times, he could never seize the Olympia throne, making him one of the greatest bodybuilders not to win the Sandow trophy.
Wheeler was born with a rare kidney disease called glomerulosclerosis. However, he learned about his condition in 1999 and retired from competitive bodybuilding in 2003. “The Sultan of Symmetry” made a comeback on the Olympia stage in 2017 in the Classic Physique division, finishing 15th.
In 2019, Wheeler underwent amputation of his lower right leg due to circulatory vascular system problems that had become life-threatening.
Must Read: 13 Best Bodybuilders Who Didn’t Win the Mr. Olympia Title
Kai Greene
Kai Greene is one of the most inspiring bodybuilders of all time. Greene came from humble beginnings and took up bodybuilding as a creative outlet. “Mr. Getting It Done” is one of the best posers the sport has ever seen.
Soon after starting his journey, Greene entered the upper echelons of pro bodybuilding. Greene has three runner-up finishes at the Mr. Olympia (2012, 2013, and 2014) behind Phil Heath. The Brooklyn native has won three Arnold Classic titles (2009, 2010, and 2016). The rivalry between Greene and Heath stands out as one of the fiercest battles in the history of bodybuilding.
Robby Robinson
Robby Robinson is one of the icons of the golden era of bodybuilding. Nicknamed “The Black Prince,” most bodybuilding fans remember him from his role in the cult classic Pumping Iron (1977). Robinson has won several bodybuilding contests, including Mr. America, IFBB Mr. World, Mr. Universe, Night of Champions, and Masters Olympia.
At the time of writing, Robinson is 77 years old. He still trains at the Mecca of Bodybuilding, Gold’s Gym, Venice Beach, CA, and is in incredible shape.
Chris Cormier
Chris Cormier was one of the biggest bodybuilders of his era. “The Real Deal” competed in over 72 IFBB pro shows, winning 12. He also finished runner-up six times at the Arnold Classic. Although a top-tier bodybuilder, Cormier was known for his hardcore partying lifestyle. He placed sixth at the 1994 Olympia, beating the likes of Nasser El Sonbaty and Ronnie Coleman.
Serge Nubret
Serge Nubret of France had a cameo in Pumping Iron (1977). “The Black Panther” amazed Arnie and Columbu with his jacked physique at the show. He placed runner-up behind The Austrian Oak at the 1975 Olympia, while Lou Ferrigno had to settle for a bronze medal.
Nubret has won several bodybuilding competitions, including the 1976 NABBA Mr. Universe and the 1977 WBBG Pro. Mr. World and Mr. Olympus. The Black Panther founded the World Amateur Body Building Association (WABBA) in 1975 to host amateur bodybuilding competitions.
Vince Taylor
Taylor won 22 IFBB competitions during his three-decade-long career, a record only beaten by the legendary Ronnie Coleman and Dexter Jackson. Taylor competed in six Mr. Olympia contests, finishing in the top six four times. He won the bronze medal at his debut Olympia appearance in 1989. He repeated his performance in his sophomore year at the O in 1991. With five titles under his belt, Taylor is also the winningest Master Olympia champ.
Albert Beckles
Albert “Al” Beckles is a Mr. Universe and three-time Night of Champions winner. Beckles competed at the Mr. Olympia 13 times, with a runner-up finish behind Lee Haney at the 1985 O being his best outing; Beckles was 55 years old then. He placed among the top five six times at the O. Beckles won the Niagara Falls Pro Invitational at the age of 61.
Michael Ashley
Michael Ashley was known for his insane symmetry, balance, conditioning, and presentation. Ashley’s career highlight has been winning the 1990 Arnold Classic. The most interesting part? Ashley claims to be a life-long natty. However, Ashley hung up his posing trunks after placing out of the top 10 at the 1991 AC. He believed he could only come this far while staying natural.
Harold Kelley
Harold “King Kong” Kelley is in a league of his own and is the most decorated Wheelchair bodybuilder of all time. He is a five-time Wheelchair Olympia champion. He has maintained a vice-like grip on the division since its introduction in 2018. Kelley is also a six-time Arnold Classic Pro Wheelchair champ.
Kelley ended up in a wheelchair at the age of 36 after a T11 & T12 spinal injury suffered in a car crash. He competed as a bodybuilder before his accident and resumed his competitive ambitions after he received a go-ahead from his doctors. The rest, as they say, is history.
Lenda Murray
Murray took the women’s bodybuilding division into a whole new stratosphere with her ungodly muscle mass and definition. Her physique was so outstanding that she won the Ms. Olympia title on her debut in 1990. She held onto the title for the next five years.
Murray retired after placing runner-up to Kim Chizevsky-Nicholls in 1996 and 1997. However, after a seven-year hiatus, she made a comeback in 2002 and surprised everyone by winning the Olympia gold medal. She retired after winning her eighth Ms. Olympia title in 2003.
Iris Kyle
With 10 Ms. Olympia title wins, Iris Kyle is the winningest pro female bodybuilder of all time. No other bodybuilder, male or female, has ever managed to match or beat Kyle’s Olympia win record. She has also won the Ms. International (Arnold Classic) title seven times.
Kyle ended Murray’s dream run in 2004 and bested her record to become the most successful female Open division bodybuilder of all time.
Cydney Gillon
At the time of writing, Cydney Gillon has won the Figure Olympia title six times (2017-2022) and is the only bodybuilder on this list who is actively competing, which tells you something about her potential. She also has won the Figure International (Arnold Classic) twice (2019 and 2022). Gillon is famous for her perfect figure proportions, muscle separation, size, balance, and flow. She also has some of the best presentation skills on stage.
FAQs
Are black bodybuilders more genetically gifted than white bodybuilders?
Many people believe that black bodybuilders have better genetics for building muscle than their white counterparts. Although black bodybuilders hold more Mr. Olympia titles than Caucasian athletes, most of these Sandow trophies are consolidated among three or four athletes. There is no scientific evidence to prove that bodybuilders of African descent have better genetics for bodybuilding than white athletes.
Is it easier for black bodybuilders to build muscle?
Besides genetics, building muscle mass depends on several factors, including diet, training, recovery, previous experience, and overall health. No research has been conducted to determine if black bodybuilders build muscle more easily than their peers.
Who is the biggest black bodybuilder of all time?
The eight-time Mr. Olympia champ Ronnie Coleman weighed over 310 pounds in the off-season and is arguably the biggest (and heaviest) black bodybuilder of all time. That said, Nigerian bodybuilder Victor Richards competed during the Dorian Yates era and weighed around 310 pounds. Richard got his IFBB Pro card in 1992 but never competed in a pro bodybuilding show.
Wrapping Up
These 21 bodybuilders prove that greatness knows no boundaries of race, ethnicity, or background. These famous black bodybuilders embody possibility, showing that you can turn your dreams into reality, irrespective of your skin color or where you come from.
I hope these bodybuilders’ courage, passion, and dedication inspire you to challenge stereotypes, strive for excellence, and embrace greatness, not just in bodybuilding but in your own fields.
Is there any other legendary black bodybuilder that should be on this list? Let me know in the comment section below.
List of All-Time Powerlifting World Records In Raw & Equipped Divisions
Throughout history, there has always been a fascination and sense of satisfaction in witnessing people demonstrate their incredible strength. However, it was during the 1950s that the sport of powerlifting truly took off and captured the attention of enthusiasts worldwide. Since then, powerlifting has become increasingly popular and is currently enjoying its highest level of recognition and interest. So, we decided to make a list of every All-Time World Record in raw and equipped divisions.
Powerlifting consists of dozens of federations who host their own competitions and have their own records. On the other hand, the phrase “All-Time World Record” has a specific meaning when it comes to powerlifting records. It stands for the most weight that has ever been lifted successfully in a competition that was sanctioned by any international federation. This indicates that the record is acknowledged on a global scale and is not restricted to a particular organization or area.
There are four events in which an athlete can set an All-Time World Record, and those are the Squat, Bench Press, Deadlift, and Total. In addition, there are raw and equipped divisions, as well as multiple weight classes.
“Raw” powerlifting competitions typically allow athletes to wear lifting belts, singlets, wrist wraps, knee sleeves, and chalk. On the other hand, equipped powerlifting allows the use of pieces of equipment which have a much more significant impact on the weight of the lifts. Examples of “equipped” powerlifting are bench press shirts, squat suits, knee wraps, and more.
Raw Squat — Men
Ray Williams is the man who set the mark to beat on the raw squats, as he holds the All-Time World Record of 490 kilograms (1,080 pounds). He set this record at the 2019 USAPL Arnold SBD Pro American. While Ray set the record for his +140-kilogram weight class, it is also the heaviest raw squat across all 12 weight classes.
Top Five Across All Weight Classes
Ray Williams: 490 kilogram (1,080 pounds) — 2019
Jezza Uepa: 470 kilograms (1,036 pounds) — 2017
Jesus Olivares: 470 kilograms (1,036 pounds) — 2023
Craig Foster: 465 kilograms (1,025 pounds) — 2022
Daniel Bell: 455 kilograms (1,003 pounds) — 2020
Men’s Raw Squat — Weight Class ATWR
U52KG: Andrzej Stanaszek (290 kilograms / 639 pounds)
U56KG: Andrzej Stanaszek (292.5 kilograms / 644 pounds)
U60KG: Aleksey Nikulin (270 kilograms / 595 pounds)d
U67.5KG: Jonathan Garcia (271 kilograms / 597 pounds)
U75KG: Taylor Atwood (303 kilograms / 668 pounds)
U82.5KG: Jawon Garrison (345.5 kilograms / 761 pounds)
U90KG: Amit Sapir (365 kilograms / 804 pounds)
U100KG: Joe Sullivan (386 kilograms / 850 pounds)
U110KG: Phillip Herndon (395 kilograms / 870 pounds)
U125KG: Reece Fullwood (412.5 kilograms / 909 pounds)
U140KG: Shane Haller (420 kilograms / 929 pounds)
+140KG: Ray Williams (490 kilograms / 1,080 pounds)
Raw Squat — Women
Although April Mathis has held the World Record for over a decade, Bonica Brown managed to break it very recently. She did so by raw squatting 280 kilograms (617 pounds) at the 2023 IPF Sheffield Powerlifting Championships.
Top Five Across All Weight Classes
Bonica Brown: 280 kilogram (617 pounds) — 2023
April Mathis: 278.9 kilograms (615 pounds) — 2011
Amanda Martin: 275.5 kilograms (607 pounds) — 2021
Tamara Walcott: 272.5 kilograms (600 pounds) — 2022
Alexis Jones: 272.5 kilograms (600 pounds) — 2023
Women’s Raw Squat — Weight Class ATWR
U44KG: Stacia Cambra (122.5 kilograms / 270 pounds)
U48KG: Tiffany Chapon (161 kilograms / 254 pounds)
U52KG: Noémie Allabert (171.5 kilograms / 378 pounds)
U56KG: Marianna Gasparyan (220 kilograms / 485 pounds)
U60KG: Marianna Gasparyan (230 kilograms / 507 pounds)
U67.5KG: Marianna Gasparyan (225 kilograms / 496 pounds)
U75KG: Kristy Hawkins (265 kilograms / 584 pounds)
U82.5KG: Hunter Henderson (267.5 kilograms / 589 pounds)
U90KG: Samantha Rice (267.5 kilograms / 589 pounds)
+90KG: Bonica Brown (280 kilograms / 617 pounds)
Raw Bench Press — Men
Julius Maddox is unprecedented in the bench press event, as no one has even gotten close to him. There have been some unofficial lifts by athletes such as Danal Zamani, but when it comes to performing in a competition, Maddox is the greatest. So, he holds the raw bench press World Record of 355 kilograms (782 pounds), which he set at the 2021 WRPF Hybrid Showdown III.
Top Five Across All Weight Classes
Julius Maddox: 355 kilograms (782 pounds) — 2021
Kirill Sarychev: 335 kilograms (738 pounds) — 2015
Eric Spoto: 327.5 kilograms (722 pounds) — 2013
Thomas Davis: 325 kilograms (716 pounds) — 2021
Scot Mendelson: 324.3 kilograms (715 pounds) — 2005
Men’s Raw Bench Press — Weight Class ATWR
U52KG: Roland Ezuruike (200 kilograms / 440 pounds)
U56KG: Sherif Osman (207.5 kilograms / 457 pounds)
U60KG: Sherif Osman (211 kilograms / 465 pounds)
U67.5KG: Roman Eremashvili (228 kilograms / 502 pounds)
U75KG: Roman Eremashvili (245 kilograms / 540 pounds)
U82.5KG: Stanislav Milostnoy (250 kilograms / 551 pounds)
U90KG: Andrey Sapozhonkov (280 kilograms / 617 pounds)
U100KG: Oleg Perepechenov (290 kilograms / 639 pounds)
U110KG: Jeremy Hoornstra (305 kilograms / 672 pounds)
U125KG: Jeremy Hoornstra (306.1 kilograms / 675 pounds)
U140KG: Johnnie Harris (320 kilograms / 705 pounds)
+140KG: Julius Maddox (355 kilograms / 782 pounds)
Raw Bench Press — Women
Although she lost her squat World Record, April Mathis is still in possession of her 207.5-kilogram (457-pound) bench press world record. She set this at the 2016 SPF Gritmas Classic, meaning it has remained unchanged for the past seven years.
Top Five Across All Weight Classes
April Mathis: 207.5 kilograms (457 pounds) — 2016
Samanth DiBois: 181.4 kilograms (400 pounds) — 2016
Carina Davis: 180 kilograms (396 pounds) — 2021
Roberta Collins: 177.5 kilograms (391 pounds) — 2003
Jessica Springer: 177.5 kilograms (391 pounds) — 2020
Women’s Raw Bench Press — Weight Class ATWR
U44KG: Lucy Ogechukwu Ejike (127.5 kilograms / 281 pounds)
U48KG: Esther Osa Oyema (310 kilograms / 218 pounds)
U52KG: Esther Osa Oyema (133 kilograms / 293 pounds)
U56KG: Fatma Omar (143 kilograms / 315 pounds)
U60KG: Małgorzata Hałas-Koralewska (145 kilograms / 319 pounds)
U67.5KG: Natalya Samarina (153 kilograms / 337 pounds)
U75KG: Allison Hind (163.2 kilograms / 360 pounds)
U82.5KG: Shannon Nash (172.5 kilograms / 380 pounds)
U90KG: Małgorzata Kopiec (177.5 kilograms / 391 pounds)
+90KG: April Mathis (207.5 kilograms / 457 pounds)
Raw Deadlift — Men
Arguably the most impressive lift in powerlifting belongs to Danny Grigsby. He managed to deadlift 487.5 kilograms (1,074 pounds) at the 2022 WRPF American Pro, making him the closest man to break the half a ton barrier.
Top Five Across All Weight Classes
Danny Grigsby: 487.5 kilograms (1,074 pounds) — 2022
Benedikt Magnússon: 460.4 kilograms (1,015 pounds) — 2011
Jamal Browner: 455 kilograms (1,003 pounds) — 2022
Krzysztof Wierzbicki: 447.5 kilograms (986 pounds) — 2021
Yury Belkin: 445 kilograms (981 pounds) — 2022
Men’s Raw Deadlift — Weight Class ATWR
U52KG: Luis Sotelo (230 kilograms / 507 pounds)
U56KG: Dalton LaCoe (271.5 kilograms / 598 pounds)
U60KG: Maksim Chursanov (291 kilograms / 641 pounds)
U67.5KG: Nabil Lahlou (322.5 kilograms / 711 pounds)
U75KG: Chris Yip (350 kilograms / 771 pounds)
U82.5KG: Dmitry Nasonov (405 kilograms / 892 pounds)
U90KG: John Haack (410 kilograms / 903 pounds)
U100KG: Krzysztof Wierzbicki (433.5 kilograms / 955 pounds)
U110KG: Danny Grigsby (467.5 kilograms / 1,030 pounds)
U125KG: Danny Grigsby (487.5 kilograms / 1,074 pounds)
U140KG: Danny Grigsby (465 kilograms / 1,025 pounds)
+140KG: Benedikt Magnússon (460.4 kilograms / 1,015 pounds)
Raw Deadlift — Women
Tamara Walcott is the queen of raw deadlifts, as she has the heaviest pull in the history of women’s powerlifting. Her greatest deadlift came at the 2022 WRPF American Pro and weighed 290 kilograms (639 pounds). In addition, Tamara has ventured into the Strongman world and set deadlift records there as well.
Top Five Across All Weight Classes
Tamara Walcott: 290 kilograms (639 pounds) — 2022
Chakera Ingram: 282.5 kilograms (622 pounds) — 2018
Samantha Rice: 280 kilograms (617 pounds) — 2023
Kristy Hawkins: 275 kilograms (606 pounds) — 2021
Brianny Terry: 275 kilograms (606 pounds) — 2022
Women’s Raw Deadlift — Weight Class ATWR
U44KG: Payal Ghosh (170 kilograms / 374 pounds)
U48KG: Heather Connor (192.5 kilograms / 424 pounds)
U52KG: Jenn Rotsinger (202.5 kilograms / 446 pounds)
U56KG: Stefanie Cohen (230 kilograms / 507 pounds)
U60KG: Whitney Baxley (236 kilograms / 520 pounds)
U67.5KG: Galina Abramova (250 kilograms / 551 pounds)
U75KG: Kristy Hawkins (275 kilograms / 606 pounds)
U82.5KG: Chakera Ingram (282.5 kilograms / 622 pounds)
U90KG: Samantha Rice (280 kilograms / 617 pounds)
+90KG: Tamara Walcott (290 kilograms / 639 pounds)
Raw Total — Men
Jesus Olivares is the newest record holder in the Raw Total event. He set the record just a few months ago at the 2023 IPF Sheffield Powerlifting Championships by totaling 1,152.5 kilograms (2,540 pounds). In addition, he set the record at a drug-tested meet, which adds to its value.
Top Five Across All Weight Classes
Jesus Olivares: 1,152.5 kilograms (2,540 pounds) — 2023
Daniel Bell: 1,127.5 kilograms (2,485 pounds) — 2020
Ray Williams: 1,112.5 kilograms (2,452 pounds) — 2019
Josh Morris: 1,077.5 kilograms (2,375 pounds) — 2017
Thomas Davis: 1,077.5 kilograms (2,375 pounds) — 2021
Men’s Raw Total — Weight Class ATWR
U52KG: Andrzej Stanaszek (600 kilograms / 1,322 pounds)
U56KG: Precious McKenzie (610 kilograms / 1,344 pounds)
U60KG: Sergey Fedosienko (670.5 kilograms / 1,478 pounds)
U67.5KG: Michael Estrella (738 kilograms / 1,627 pounds)
U75KG: Taylor Atwood (838.5 kilograms / 1,848 pounds)
U82.5KG: Blake Lehew (915 kilograms / 2,017 pounds)
U90KG: John Haack (1,022.5 kilograms /2,254 pounds)
U100KG: John Haack (1,030 kilograms / 2,270 pounds)
U110KG: Jamal Browner (1,052.5 kilograms / 2,320 pounds)
U125KG: Zac Meyers (1,055 kilograms / 2,325 pounds)
U140KG: Larry Williams (1,075 kilograms / 2,275 pounds)
+140KG: Jesus Olivares (1,152.5 kilograms / 2,540 pounds)
Raw Total — Women
Tamara Walcott appears once more on the list of All-Time World Records for the Raw Total event. She accumulated 735 kilograms (1,620 pounds) across three events at the 2022 WRPF American Pro, which is more than anyone has done before her.
Top Five Across All Weight Classes
Tamara Walcott: 735 kilograms (1,620 pounds) — 2022
April Mathis: 730.2 kilograms (1,610 pounds) — 2011
Samantha Rice: 702.5 kilograms (1,548 pounds) — 2023
Alexis Jones: 701 kilograms (1,154 pounds)— 2023
Chakera Ingram: 692.5 kilograms (1,521 pounds) — 2018
Women’s Raw Total — Weight Class ATWR
U44KG: Stacia Cambra (355 kilograms / 782 pounds)
U48KG: Tiffany Chapon (428.5 kilograms / 944 pounds)
U52KG: Jenn Rotsinger (465 kilograms / 1,025 pounds)
U56KG: Marianna Gasparyan (552.5 kilograms / 1,218 pounds)
U60KG: Marianna Gasparyan (580 kilograms / 1,278 pounds)
U67.5KG: Marianna Gasparyan (570 kilograms / 1,256 pounds)
U75KG: Kristy Hawkins (687.5 kilograms / 1,151 pounds)
U82.5KG: Chakera Ingram (692.5 kilograms / 1,526 pounds)
U90KG: Samantha Rice (702.5 kilograms / 1,548 pounds)
+90KG: Tamara Walcott (735 kilograms / 1,620 pounds)
Equipped Squat — Men
The equipped squat of Nathan Baptist was truly a unique sight to see, as his 595-kilogram (1,311-pound) squat is the heaviest in this division. He landed it at the 2021 UPA Utah Kick Off Meet no one came close to it for three years now.
Top Five Across All Weight Classes
Nathan Baptist: 595 kilograms (1,311 pounds) — 2021
Brian Carroll: 592.5 kilograms (1,306 pounds) — 2020
Dave Hoff: 577.5 kilograms (1,273 pounds) — 2019
Jonas Rantanen: 575 kilograms (1,267 pounds) — 2011
Donnie Thompson: 573.7 kilograms (1,265 pounds) — 2011
Men’s Equipped Squat — Weight Class ATWR
U52KG: Andrzej Stanaszek (300.5 kilograms / 662 pounds)
U56KG: Jeremy Smith (317.5 kilograms / 700 pounds)
U60KG: Gerard McNamara (342.5 kilograms / 755 pounds)
U67.5KG: Alex Kovatch (378.7 kilograms / 835 pounds)
U75KG: Wes McCormick (412.5 kilograms / 909 pounds)
U82.5KG: Kalle Räsänen (450 kilograms / 992 pounds)
U90KG: Kalle Räsänen (486 kilograms / 1,071 pounds)
U100KG: Sam Byrd (498.9 kilograms / 1,100 pounds)
U110KG: Chris Della Fave (526.1 kilograms / 1,160 pounds)
U125KG: Dave Hoff (548.8 kilograms / 1,210 pounds)
U140KG: Brian Carroll (592.3 kilograms / 1,306 pounds)
+140KG: Nathan Baptist (595 kilograms / 1,311.7 pounds)
Equipped Squat — Women
Leah Reichman stands alone at the top of the women’s division for the equipped squat, as she has lifted almost 50 kilograms (110 pounds) more than anyone else. Thus, she holds the World Record of 432.5 kilograms (953 pounds), having set it at the 2023 APF Womens Pro/Am.
Top Five Across All Weight Classes
Leah Reichman: 432.5 kilograms (953 pounds) — 2023
Becca Swanson: 387.5 kilograms (854 pounds) — 2005
Crystal Tate: 369.6 kilograms (815 pounds) — 2019
Amber Hansen: 367.5 kilograms (810 pounds) — 2023
Jordan Buchla: 353.8 kilograms (780 pounds) — 2022
Women’s Equipped Squat — Weight Class ATWR
U44KG: Reema Kumari (182.5 kilograms / 402 pounds)
U48KG: Marianne Kosonen (222.5 kilograms / 490 pounds)
U52KG: Marianne Kosonen (255 kilograms / 562 pounds)
U56KG: Jenna Odziana (272.5 kilograms / 600 pounds)
U60KG: Brianda Romero (285 kilograms / 628 pounds)
U67.5KG: Heidi Howar (310.7 kilograms / 685 pounds)
U75KG: Laura Phelps-Stackhouse (351.5 kilograms / 775 pounds)
U82.5KG: Anna McCloskey (351.5 kilograms / 775 pounds)
U90KG: Amber Hansen (367.5 kilograms / 810 pounds)
+90KG: Leah Reichman (432.5 kilograms / 953 pounds)
Equipped Bench Press — Men
The award for the most dominant World Record goes to Jimmy Kolb, who has managed to surpass his closest rival by almost 100 kilograms (220 pounds). Jimmy has done this in the equipped bench press event with his 612.5-kilogram (1,350-pound) World Record. He set this record at the 2023 IPA Hillbilly Havoc.
Top Five Across All Weight Classes
Jimmy Kolb: 612.5 kilograms (1,350 pounds) — 2023
Will Barotti: 521.6 kilograms (1,150 pounds) — 2022
Rich Putnam: 514.8 kilograms (1,135 pounds) — 2022
Mike Womack: 513.5 kilograms (1,132 pounds) — 2022
Bill Gillespie: 512.5 kilograms (1,129 pounds) — 2022
Men’s Equipped Bench Press — Weight Class ATWR
U52KG: Vladimir Balynets (190 kilograms / 418 pounds)
U56KG: Jeremy Smith (226.8 kilograms / 500 pounds)
U60KG: Eric Head (227.5 kilograms / 501 pounds)
U67.5KG: Kevin Harmon (276.6 kilograms / 610 pounds)
U75KG: Harley Sanders (322.5 kilograms / 711 pounds)
U82.5KG: Rob Forell (412.7 kilograms / 910 pounds)
U90KG: Rob Forell (453.5 kilograms / 1,000 pounds)
U100KG: Rob Forell (455.8 kilograms / 1,005 pounds)
U110KG: Greg Powell (500 kilograms / 1,102 pounds)
U125KG: Doug Smithey (499 kilograms / 1,100 pounds)
U140KG: Rich Putnam (514.8 kilograms / 1,135 pounds)
+140KG: Jimmy Kolb (612.5 kilograms / 1,350 pounds)
Equipped Bench Press — Women
The contention for the women’s equipped bench press World record has always been stacked, but Rea-Ann Miller has recently made a giant leap forward. She bench pressed 294.8 kilograms (650 pounds) at the 2023 MM Bench for Wolfe II and claimed the World Record.
Top Five Across All Weight Classes
Rae-Ann Miller: 294.8 kilograms (650 pounds) — 2023
Amber Hansen: 278.9 kilograms (615 pounds) — 2021
Katrina Bielomyza: 277.5 kilograms (611 pounds) — 2021
Emma Yitalo-James: 275 kilograms (606 pounds) — 2023
Becca Swanson: 272.5 kilograms (600 pounds) — 2008
Women’s Equipped Bench Press — Weight Class ATWR
U44KG: Cosette Neely (142.8 kilograms / 315 pounds)
U48KG: Cosette Neely (155 kilograms / 341 pounds)
U52KG: Tiffany Biancardi (208.6 kilograms / 460 pounds)
U56KG: Tiffany Biancardi (197.5 kilograms / 435 pounds)
U60KG: Tiffany Biancardi (204.1 kilograms / 450 pounds)
U67.5KG: Kathleen James (208.6 kilograms / 460 pounds)
U75KG: Allison Hind (242.6 kilograms / 535 pounds)
U82.5KG: Shawna Mendelson (256.2 kilograms / 565 pounds)
U90KG: Emma Ylitalo-James (275 kilograms / 606 pounds)
+90KG: Rae-Ann Miller (294.8 kilograms / 650 pounds)
Equipped Deadlift — Men
The equipped deadlift World Record is held by Andy Bolton who locked out 457.5 kilograms (1,008 pounds) at the 2009 BPC South East Qualifier and Novice Bash. Interestingly, this is the only event in powerlifting where the equipped record is lighter than the raw record.
Top Five Across All Weight Classes
Andy Bolton: 457.5 kilograms (1,008 pounds) — 2009
Konstantīns Konstantinovs: 430 kilograms (948 pounds) — 2006
Garry Frank: 422.5 kilograms (931 pounds) — 2002
Tibor Mészáros: 420.5 kilograms (927 pounds) — 2004
Krzysztof Wierzbicki: 420 kilograms (925 pounds) — 2017
Men’s Equipped Deadlift — Weight Class ATWR
U52KG: Sergey Fedosienko (257.5 kilograms / 567 pounds)
U56KG: Lamar Gant (290 kilograms / 639 pounds)
U60KG: Lamar Gant (310 kilograms / 683 pounds)
U67.5KG: Daniel Austin (320 kilograms / 705 pounds)
U75KG: Alexis Maher (365 kilograms / 804 pounds)
U82.5KG: Micah Marino (360.6 kilograms / 795 pounds)
U90KG: Ed Coan (390 kilograms / 859 pounds)
U100KG: Krzysztof Wierzbicki (410 kilograms / 903 pounds)
U110KG: Krzysztof Wierzbicki (420 kilograms / 925 pounds)
U125KG: Konstantīn Konstantīnovs (430 kilograms / 948 pounds)
U140KG: Andy Bolton (420 kilograms / 925 pounds)
+140KG: Andy Bolton (457.5 kilograms / 1,008 pounds)
Equipped Deadlift — Women
Only two women have ever crossed the 300-kilogram (661-pound) milestone in the equipped deadlift event, and Becca Swanson is the more prominent of the two. She holds the World Record of 315 kilograms (694 pounds), which she set at the 2005 WPC WPO European Semi Finals.
Top Five Across All Weight Classes
Becca Swanson: 315 kilograms (694 pounds) — 2005
Crystal Tate: 300 kilograms (661 pounds) — 2018
Leah Reichman: 288 kilograms (635 pounds) — 2021
Deana D’Andrea: 275 kilograms (606 pounds) — 2023
Andrea Corder: 274.4 kilograms (605 pounds) — 2019
Women’s Equipped Deadlift — Weight Class ATWR
U44KG: Wei-Ling Chen (175 kilograms / 385 pounds)
U48KG: Wei-Ling Chen (195 kilograms / 429 pounds)
U52KG: Marianne Kosonen (210 kilograms / 462 pounds)
U56KG: Jamie Field (232.5 kilograms / 512 pounds)
U60KG: Anna Mezhova (245 kilograms / 540 pounds)
U67.5KG: Krista Ford (260 kilograms / 573 pounds)
U75KG: Andrea Corder (274.4 kilograms / 605 pounds)
U82.5KG: Deana D’Andrea (273 kilograms / 601 pounds)
U90KG: Crystal Tate (297.5 kilograms / 655 pounds)
+90KG: Becca Swanson (315 kilograms / 694 pounds)
Equipped Total — Men
Overall, Dave Hoff wrote his name in the history books as the equipped Total World Record holder. His record stands at 1,407.5 kilograms (3,103 pounds) from the 2019 WPC WPO Super Finals.
Top Five Across All Weight Classes
Dave Hoff: 1,407.5 kilograms (3,103 pounds) — 2019
Donnie Thompson: 1360.7 kilograms (3,000 pounds) — 2011
Jonas Rantanen: 1,340 kilograms (2,954 pounds) — 2011
Bob Merkh: 1,317.6 kilograms (2,905 pounds) — 2022
Chris Della Fave: 1,301.8 kilograms (2,870 pounds) — 2022
Men’s Equipped Total — Weight Class ATWR
U52KG: Sergey Fedosienko ( 687.5 kilograms / 1,151 pounds)
U56KG: Sergey Fedosienko (742.5 kilograms / 1,636 pounds)
U60KG: Sergey Fedosienko (765 kilograms / 1,685 pounds)
U67.5KG: Brian Schwab (875.4 kilograms / 1,930 pounds)
U75KG: Oleksandr Kutcher (985 kilograms / 2,171 pounds)
U82.5KG: Kalle Räsänen (1,100 kilograms / 2,425 pounds)
U90KG: Shawn Frankl (1,192.9 kilograms / 2,630 pounds)
U100KG: Shawn Frankl (1,231.5 kilograms / 2,715 pounds)
U110KG: Chris Della Fave (1,301.8 kilograms / 2,870 pounds)
U125KG: Dave Hoff (1,363 kilograms / 3,005 pounds)
U140KG: Dave Hoff (1,407.5 kilograms / 3,103 pounds)
+140KG: Donnie Thompson (1,360.7 kilograms / 3,000 pounds)
Equipped Total — Women
Speaking of the women’s equipped Total World Record, Leah Reichman has just recently broken a record which has been in Becca Swanson’s possession for 18 years. She did so by totaling 932.5 kilograms (2,055 pounds) at the 2023 APF Womens Pro/Am.
Top Five Across All Weight Classes
Leah Reichman: 932.5 kilograms (2,055 pounds) — 2023
Becca Swanson: 930 kilograms (2,050 pounds) — 2005
Crystal Tate: 852.7 kilograms (1,880 pounds) — 2019
Deana D’Andrea: 845 kilograms (1,862 pounds) — 2023
Amber Hansen: 818.7 kilograms (1,805 pounds) — 2022
Women’s Equipped Total — Weight Class ATWR
U44KG: Cosette Neely (494.4 kilograms / 1,090 pounds)
U48KG: Cosette Neely (530 kilograms / 1,168 pounds)
U52KG: Marianne Kosonen (613 kilograms / 1,351 pounds)
U56KG: Tiffany Biancardi (617.5 kilograms / 1,361 pounds)
U60KG: Heidi Howar (682.5 kilograms / 1,504 pounds)
U67.5KG: Heidi Howar (746.1 kilograms / 1,645 pounds)
U75KG: Laura Phelps-Stackhouse (816.4 kilograms / 1,800 pounds)
U82.5KG: Deana D’Andrea (840.5 kilograms / 1,853 pounds)
U90KG: Becca Swanson (855 kilograms / 1,884 pounds)
+90KG: Leah Reichman (932.5 kilograms / 2,055 pounds)
Most of the records listed above were set within the last few years, while only a few historic records remain unbroken. This proves that we are currently living through a golden age of powerlifting and are lucky to witness the likes of Jesus Olivares, Danny Grigsby, Tamara Walcott, Kristy Hawkins, and many other amazing athletes.
Published: 17 May, 2023 | 3:16 PM EDT
GlycoLog Puts CARBS Back on the MENU!
GlycoLog Puts CARBS Back on the MENU! GlycoLog allows carbs to work for you to build muscle, so you can achieve serious lean gains. The Great Carb Debate. Are you confused about carbs? That’s no surprise. The great carb debate has been going on for years, and carbs have gotten a pretty bad rap….
First Year in Prison: Review Limitless Bodybuilding
First Year in Prison: Review
Limitless Bodybuilding
By PJ Braun
‘Even though I have been locked up a year, it could be so much worse.’
As I write this it’s February 8th, just nine days shy of a year since being incarcerated. For that reason, I decided to recap my year for you, guys. I am going to break it down CliffsNotes style. February 17th was probably the worst day of my life. Driving to the courthouse awaiting my fate was brutal. Leading up to that day I was focused on spending as much time with my fiancée Marissa and my family as I could. It still makes me sad at times when I think that it took coming to prison for me to realize I was living life way too fast and missing out on what really matters to me.
The last couple of months before coming to prison was a special time for me, however the upcoming sentencing was always looming in my mind and anxiety and depression were consistent feelings that consumed me. This contributed to me being lazy and sloppy with my training and nutrition. I had stopped taking growth hormone about a month before the incarceration and I noticed that I had softened up quite a bit and lost some fullness and vascularity. I stayed on testosterone all the way to the sentencing and was hoping to be able to stay on the test because of my doctor’s recommendation letter. When I was pulled out of court in handcuffs and taken to intake at the main jail in Fort Lauderdale, I found out quickly that the BOP [Federal Bureau of Prisons] does things much different than I thought.
I was told I could not be on any of my prescription meds, stripped of my clothing and tossed in a detox room for a week before being able to meet with a doctor who put me back on Paxil at a higher dose of 40 milligrams instead of my normal 30 milligrams. The reason I mention this is because one of the side effects of Paxil is weight gain, which I will get to later. I went from Main Jail to county jail for another week and then to the FDC Miami, where I spent the first 38 days in quarantine locked up 23 hours a day and barely eating. This was very hard. In the beginning of that quarantine phase was when I knew my hormones were crashing after being on testosterone for most of the last 20 years. It was very strange.
Sometimes I would get so depressed and emotional out of nowhere that I would face the wall of my cell and tears would be coming out like faucets. A year later the emotions are in check, but my energy is low.
I did have some great experiences in Miami, though. My “celly,” Francisco, got me back to God and was an excellent guide on how prison works. I learned how to move the right way. When you are in a facility with guys who have spent most of their time in high-level security, you learn a lot about the way the system works, and you develop a different level of respect that isn’t seen in most of the self-surrender guys at the camp. It is a privilege to be at a camp and many of the guys here worked their way down over many years. At the same time, I don’t think you should have to be at a “pen” to know manners and respect. I learned how to make weights with garbage bags filled with water that were tied up inside laundry bags and sheets and I started training hard.
When I left Miami, I went back to lockdown again in Atlanta for a month before I got on the bus to Montgomery. I felt like I was starting all over again but I was ready. Unfortunately, there are no weights here so I got creative with bodyweight exercises and developed a full-body routine that I was doing every day until I came to RDAP [Residential Drug Abuse Program]. At that point back in August, I started training one body part a day with a ton of volume. I am talking 30 sets or more and with supersets. Along the way, much of this has been a blur but a few moments really stick out. Cedric McMillan and Bostin Loyd, RIP. These were hard phone calls with my dad that broke my heart.
I did a lot of reflection on life outside of bodybuilding this year. I thought about my drug and diuretic use while I was competing and my desire to be the biggest and best. I was pretty conservative for the most part but also took some chances toward the end, and I wonder if those chances will catch up to me later. We are always quick to say, “The steroids did it” but we are also quick to say, “Well, he must have had a preexisting condition.” Regardless, guys are dying young and I feel there has to be more time spent getting blood work done, and working with doctors no matter what. I know guys who have died young that were the picture of health on the outside, but that doesn’t mean shit if you don’t know what’s going on inside. Then you have guys who just don’t care and want to be big at all costs and if that’s their decision, then so be it because it was their choice. I have had guys tell me they want to die young and jacked and not old and frail. Who am I to say what a person can and can’t do, when they are aware of the potential risk and ignoring it out of pure self-will? I would like to die old and mentally strong, but I want some muscle too.
The moment that sticks out as by far the best was when I finally got to see and touch Marissa for the first time after almost nine months. I have never felt that combination of nerves, anxiety and excitement at such a high level in my life. When we ran to each other in visitation and embraced with a kiss, it had to look straight out of a blockbuster Hollywood romance movie and I will never forget the way we cried together in pure jubilation with her saying, “Why is your heart beating like that?!” And me replying, “Because I am so excited to see you again.” I thank God every day for her love.
And speaking of her and her love, it’s kept me really motivated and strong. A lot of guys don’t have anyone on the outside, and that can be a struggle. I see it and live with it; guys who literally have no one. I am blessed, and I have so much gratitude for the people in my life. My dad has done awesome with Blackstone Labs™, and I never have to worry about anything with him and my partner, Jared Wheat. I am not a momma’s boy, but I sure do love the love my mom shows, day in and out.
What I am trying to say with all this is even though I have been locked up a year, it could be so much worse. I have learned to have more positive self-talks with myself and find the silver lining in everything. I have learned to trust God and his process for me, and I have learned to be present in the moment and not worry as much about things I can’t control. What I can control is myself and my actions, and I choose to get up before count every day and be first outside to train. It makes me feel great and accomplished.
I conduct myself with respect and integrity and when it comes to fitness and bodybuilding on the compound, there hasn’t been a day in a while that I haven’t been asked for help and taken the time to explain and help as much as I can because I know how positive bodybuilding and fitness can be for everyone, physically and spiritually. I have missed the bodybuilding shows but I have friends like Guy Cisternino, Billy Gagliardo and Nick Trigili, who email what is going on. I have Muscular Development magazine in my corner giving me a voice, but I also rely on the magazine to keep my finger on the pulse of the industry and get so excited when the mail comes, and my MD is there.
My training is going as good as it can be and I am a big but kind of chubby 275 pounds, but if you know me like my Blackstone Labs™ family does, then you would know that means next year’s BEAT PJ contest is going to be our biggest ever and NO ONE is going to beat me this time!
Thank you all for reading. If you have requests on what you want me to write about, submit them to the Blackstone Labs™ Instagram. I love you all, peace out, bye!
Instagram @pjbraunfitness
blackstonelabs.com
Instagram @blackstone_labs
Sudden Death During Sex
Sudden Death During Sex
“Your eyes are bigger than your stomach.” That saying refers to people who put more food on their plates than they can possibly eat. Viagra created a similar situation for guys with bad hearts – their penises are bigger than their hearts. They want sex, but don’t have the physical stamina or cardiovascular health to complete the job. Poor metabolic health triggers heart disease and erection problems. Viagra can get you erect, but it can’t compensate for a weak heart. Sudden death during sex is a real danger for many men. Sex causes near maximal metabolic stress in older men. For guys with bad hearts: just because you can have sex doesn’t mean you should. Check with your doctor to determine if you have the health and stamina to be a sex machine. (Seminars Cardiothoracic Vascular Anesthesia, 10: 256-258)
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2023 Arnold Brazil Preview Show MD Power Hour E14 ft Giles Thomas & Miguel Chain
Written by Giles “Tiger” Thomas & Miguel Chain ft. Ron Harris
Who is Your Favorite to Win the Arnold Brazil?
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Jay Cutler vs. Nick Walker: A Fantasy Bodybuilding Showdown
If you want to determine the most successful bodybuilder of a certain era, then you simply look at the number of championships they won during their careers. Determining the most popular competitors is a little different. Social media can help provide some information, but it isn’t all about followers online. Crowd support at shows, lines at expos, and merchandise sales could tell more of the story.
Regardless of what metrics you use, Jay Cutler and Nick Walker hold their own in both onstage success and fan support.
Cutler, a four-time Mr. Olympia, competed as a pro from 1998 to 2013, and he’s still one of the most admired athletes in the sport 10 years after his retirement.
Meanwhile, Walker was one of Cutler’s fans growing up, but he’s now forging his own legacy and building his own fanbase — and trophy case — that could potentially rival Cutler’s someday.
Could Walker actually match Culter’s accomplishments? We’ll have to wait a while before we get an answer. But in the meantime, we here at BarBend are breaking down their physiques and accomplishments to see how both men stack up.
Credit: @JayCutler on Instagram (Cutler) // T.J. Darr (Walker)
[Related: Arnold Schwarzenegger vs. Chris Bumstead: Breaking Down a Fantasy Bodybuilding Matchup]
Bodybuilding Accomplishments
Comparing the duo’s accomplishments in 2023 wouldn’t exactly be fair to Walker. He’s only in his third full season as a pro, while Cutler had a career that lasted well over a decade. Even though we will mention all of Cutler’s major career highlights, we’ll emphasize his success up to the age of 28, which is Walker’s age as of March 2023. In a striking coincidence, the two even share a birthday — August 3 — meaning Cutler is exactly 21 years older than Walker.
Jay Cutler’s Accomplishments
Cutler won 15 pro shows during his career, including four Mr. Olympia titles and three Arnold Classics. However, he didn’t score any of those Olympias before the age of 33. If we were to keep his career analysis to the age of 28, then that leads up to his 2002 season.
According to Muscle Memory, Cutler turned pro in 1996 by winning the NPC Nationals heavyweight title. His first pro show was the 1998 Night of Champions, where he placed 12th. He then qualified for the 1999 Mr. Olympia by placing in the top three at that year’s Iron Man Invitational, but he finished 15th out of 16 competitors at the O itself.
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[Related: 9 Bodybuilders Under 200 Pounds Who Were Absolute Giant Killers]
Cutler’s first pro win came at the 2000 Night of Champions, which became the New York Pro years later. He then finished eighth at that year’s Mr. Olympia. He really hit his stride after placing second to champion Ronnie Coleman at the 2001 Mr. Olympia. Many feel Cutler was actually the better competitor that night, and it’s a decision that is still considered one of the most controversial in the show’s history.
The 2002 season kicked off with 28-year-old Cutler winning his first Arnold Classic title. He then opted to skip the Olympia that year, making his career highlights up to age 28 as follows:
1996 NPC Nationals Heavyweight Winner
2000 Night of Champions Winner
2001 Mr. Olympia, 2nd Place
2002 Arnold Classic Champion
Nick Walker’s Accomplishments
Walker turned pro at the 2020 North American Championships, and he immediately made his pro debut at the Chicago Pro that same season, finishing in fourth.
He already had a following going into the 2021 season, but his popularity skyrocketed after winning the New York Pro. In another coincidence, Walker’s first pro win came at the same contest as Cutler’s, albeit with a different name.
The 2021 Arnold Classic came after the New York Pro due to scheduling changes around the COVID-19 pandemic. Walker shocked the world and won that contest as well, marking his first major title in only his third pro show.
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[Related: Ronnie Coleman vs. Mamdouh “Big Ramy” Elssbiay: A Fantasy Battle Between Bodybuilding Heavyweights]
His Olympia debut came two weeks later with a fifth-place finish — 10 spots higher than Cutler’s first Mr. O outing. Walker returned to the Olympia in 2022 and placed third behind champion Hadi Choopan and runner-up Derek Lunsford. He then kicked off the 2023 season by returning to the Arnold Classic, where he finished second behind champion Samson Dauda.
Walker isn’t expected to compete again until the 2023 Olympia Weekend on Nov. 2-5 in Orlando, FL, and he be turn 29 by that point. Here are his career highlights as of March 2023:
2020 North Americans Champion
2021 New York Pro Winner
2021 Arnold Classic Champion
2022 Mr. Olympia, 3rd Place
Training Style
Both men are known for their freakish muscle mass — but how did they build it? Cutler is reported to be 5’9” while Walker stands 5’7”, and both weighed around 250 pounds on stage. With Walker being such a fan of Cutler growing up, you can imagine that he took some training cues from the four-time Mr. Olympia over the years.
Jay Cutler’s Training Style
Cutler credits foundational free weight movements such as the bench press, squat, and deadlift for building his mass.
“While machines are still beneficial — when you get to a certain point, you can’t get to that [Mr. Olympia] level without doing free weight movements,” Cutler said on his YouTube channel in September 2021. He did (and still does), however, work more with machines and dumbbells to refine his physique as his career progressed.
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[Related: 10 Memorable Performances From the Arnold Classic Bodybuilding Contest]
During his prime, Cutler implemented a high-volume training approach and rarely used supersets or other intensity-boosting methods. He hit upwards of 20 to 25 sets per body part, with sets being in the eight to 12 rep range. He still follows this approach as he nears his 50th birthday.
In November 2022, Cutler shared an 11-exercise shoulders and triceps workout that is similar to how he trained during his days of dominating the stage. He didn’t detail the reps and sets, but these are the moves he performed:
Seated Dumbbell Shoulder Press
Chest-Supported Seated Lateral Raise Machine
Rear Delt Cable Crossover Flye
Incline Fixed Barbell Front Raise
Incline Dumbbell Rear Delt Flye
Seated Triceps Extension Machine
Cable Triceps Pushdown
Kneeling Rope Pushdown
Seated Cable Triceps Extension
Machine Calf Raise
Leg Press Calf Raise
Nick Walker’s Training Style
Though Walker performs many of the same movements as Cutler, he’s far more notable for his freakish displays of strength on social media. During his 2022 Mr. Olympia prep, Walker posted a video of himself hitting incline bench press reps with 180-pound dumbbells and deadlifts with five 45-pound weight plates on each side (which totals 495 pounds, assuming Walker was lifting with a standard 45-pound barbell).
Like Cutler, Walker has since started incorporating more machine movements into his programming because they allow him to isolate muscle groups and refine his mass.
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[Related: The Story Behind the Chaotic Drug-Tested 1990 Mr. Olympia]
That said, he still uses free-weight exercises regularly and keeps his rep ranges around 12 to 15. One example of Walker’s shoulder training is this session he completed with 2019 Mr. Olympia Brandon Curry in the summer of 2022.
Popularity
It’s always difficult to compare the popularity of bodybuilders from different eras because of the lack of social media during Cutler’s career and the different ways of promotion between then and now. There are significantly fewer magazines around now, and merchandise sales have changed as well. Nonetheless, you can see why these two men are where they are in the bodybuilding world.
Jay Cutler’s Popularity
Cutler’s popularity during the 2000s was matched only by eight-time Mr. Olympia Ronnie Coleman. That’s because, throughout their careers, they were usually the last two men standing on the Olympia stage, and their physiques helped define the “mass monster” era. They were the most high-profile athletes in the sport, with each selling workout DVDs and appearing in magazines. If anything, their rivalry helped both men achieve even greater heights in terms of popularity.
[Related: How Strong Was Arnold Schwarzenegger? We Look Back at the Oak’s Short-Lived Powerlifting Career]
Cutler was — and still is — savvy when it comes to the business of bodybuilding. He was the top athlete for the supplement company MuscleTech for most of his career, started his own merch line, and was a fixture at trade shows. His pursuit of Coleman, combined with his commitment to support his fans, made him a legend long before he won an Olympia title.
Since his retirement, Cutler stays relevant with newer fans thanks to his podcast, social media pages, and his YouTube channel. On Instagram alone, he has more than 4.8 million followers as of March 2023, ranking alongside current competitors like Big Ramy.
Nick Walker’s Popularity
Walker’s fanbase can be seen in part on both his Instagram (1.3 million followers) and YouTube channels (231,000 subscribers). Outside of social media, he has his own clothing line and is sponsored by supplement brand HD Muscle. Like Cutler, Walker also makes appearances at trade shows, gyms, and nutrition stores.
[Related: How Strong Was Arnold Schwarzenegger? We Look Back at the Oak’s Short-Lived Powerlifting Career]
The attention of bodybuilding fans is now more spread thanks to the addition of other divisions such as Classic Physique and Men’s Physique, but Walker remains a popular figure in the industry and could remain so for several years to come.
Coaching
Both Walker and Cutler employed some of the most respected trainers and coaches in the industry to help them build their championship physiques. Here’s who helped them get to the top:
Jay Cutler — Chris Aceto and Hany Rambod
Cutler began his career with “The Technician” Chris Aceto and stayed with him throughout most of his career. Aceto helped Cutler win all of his pro shows up until the 2008 Olympia when he lost to Dexter Jackson.
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[Related: Kings, Chemists, and Oaks: The 10 Best Bodybuilding Nicknames of All Time]
Cutler then changed over to Hany Rambod, who guided him to his final two Olympia victories in 2009 and 2010. After initially agreeing to work with Chad Nicholls for his 2013 return to the stage, Cutler eventually reunited with Aceto and finished his final Mr. Olympia contest in sixth place.
Nick Walker — Matt Jansen
Walker has mainly used one coach throughout his competition preps so far: Matt Jansen. The duo worked together from Walker’s amateur days until the 2021 Olympia, where he finished in fifth.
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[Related: 12 of the Most Underrated Bodybuilders of All Time]
After a brief falling out, Walker switched to working with Dominick Mutascio in early 2022. However, Walker and Jansen reunited later that year and returned to the 2022 Olympia as a duo. Walker finished that contest in third place, and they followed that up with a second-place finish at the 2023 Arnold Classic.
Conclusion
From birthdays to first victories and major titles, the comparisons between Cutler and Walker appear to be valid to this point. They also happen to be among the most popular bodybuilders of the respective generations. In the end, though, it all comes down to Olympia hardware. “The Mutant” certainly has the potential to rival Cutler when it comes to Sandow trophies, but only time will tell if he gets it done.
Featured Images: @jaycutler on Instagram (Cutler), T.J. Darr (Walker)
Jon Jones Appears To Retract Peace Offering To Daniel Cormier Following UFC 285
One of the interesting takeaways from the recently concluded UFC 285 event, where Jon Jones locked in GOAT status by making quick work of Ciryl Gane, was his purported interaction with arch-nemesis Daniel Cormier.
Cormier was on commentary for the actual event, and even during fight week, much was made about a the two doing an interview together. Although that never came to fruition, Cormier did reveal that he had a phone call with Jones during the fighter meetings to gain a better understanding of how he was going to approach the fight.For his part, Jon Jones had also offered an olive branch in the lead up to the contest, publicly endorsing Daniel Cormier’s professionalism in the commentary desk. Cormier also responded in kind, saying that it ‘feels nice’ to hear Jones’ endorsement of his commentary skills.
However, it would appear that Jones has now retracted his peace offering in one of his latest Tweets.In a Twitter Q& A that he conducted, Jones had this response to a fan who noticed Daniel Cormier’s less-than-animated reaction to his UFC 285 win.
“My man couldn’t even pretend to smile, it was pretty funny. Asking what happened, an experience(d) former champion and analyst suddenly not being able to identify a guillotine,” said Jones.
My man couldn’t even pretend to smile, it was pretty funny. Asking what happened, an experience former champion and analyst suddenly not being able to identify a guillotine. ? https://t.co/dgqcqdCO34— BONY (@JonnyBones) March 9, 2023
To place this in context, Daniel Cormier is generally known for his over-the-top, effervescent reactions when he’s on commentary. In contract, his reaction to Jones’ win was rather subdue – a fact that seemingly hasn’t escaped the attention of the UFC heavyweight champion either.
You can watch Cormier’s Octagon-side reaction below:
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Jon Jones Claims Francis Ngannou Left The UFC To Avoid Fighting Him
In another Tweet during the same Q& A, Jones was also less-than-complimentary of his predecessor, Francis Ngannou.
UFC 270 in January 2022 was Ngannou’s last UFC outing, when he outpointed Ciryl Gane in a close contest. ‘The Predator’ has since been released from his UFC contract as he could not come to terms with the organization.
Jones, however, feels that Ngannou had another reason for leaving. Replying to a fan who asked him if a potential fight against Francis Ngannou would be possible in the future, Jones had this to say.“I highly doubt it, especially after that first performance [at UFC 285]. Like I said, the dude left for a reason. Came up with every demand and request in the world. He knew that the UFC wasn’t going to bend, he found his way out.”
You can read more about Jones’ thoughts on Francis Ngannou here.
I highly doubt it, especially after that first performance. Like I said the dude left for a reason. Came up with every demand and request in the world. He knew that UFC wasn’t going to bend, he found his way out https://t.co/dxgr6D5v8g— BONY (@JonnyBones) March 9, 2023
How do you think a potential Jon Jones vs Francis Ngannou super fight goes? Leave your thoughts in the comments section below.
Jake Paul Challenges Floyd Mayweather To Put 50-0 Record On The Line In Real Fight, Refuses To ‘Rob Fans’ With Exhibition
YouTuber-turned-pugilist Jake Paul has called for boxing legend Floyd Mayweather to put his undefeated record on the line in a professional bout.
While he made his name as an internet personality and Disney star, Paul has since spread his wings into the combat sports world through seven professional appearances. Last time out, “The Problem Child” fell to defeat for the first time in his career, with British pro Tommy Fury earning the nod on two of the three judges’ scorecards in Saudi Arabia.
Although an immediate rematch appears to be on the table owing to clause in Paul’s contract, a fresh option presented itself this week courtesy of a public altercation.
On Wednesday, Paul almost came to blows with Mayweather and his large entourage outside the Miami-Dade Arena. In footage released by TMZ Sports, the 26-year-old Cleveland native can be seen running from the group after threats of violence.
Floyd if you want to fight 1 on 1 we can do that but don’t try to hop out of 3 cars 25 dudes deep tryna to jump me while I’m tryna enjoy my Wednesday night— Jake Paul (@jakepaul) March 9, 2023
Since then, Paul has made a number of comments online. In one video, he accused Mayweather and his team of waiting for him outside the stadium, and also defended his decision to quickly depart the situation.
Now, the polarizing online star has laid down a challenge.
Paul Calls Out Mayweather Following Public Confrontation
While Paul was building his prominence in combat sports through professional bouts against mixed martial arts veterans, Mayweather was maintaining his own presence in the sport.
The 15-time world champion has featured in numerous exhibition bouts, including against a British YouTuber and former opponent of Paul’s in Deji Olatunji last November. Just last month, “Money” made his UK debut against former MMA fighter and reality TV star Aaron Chalmers.
In a recent tweet following their public clash, Paul revealed he’s been offered exhibition matches opposite Mayweather in the past. But believing that would be “robbing” the fans, the 26-year-old called for the legendary pugilist to put his undefeated record on the line in a “real fight.”
“Floyd will not see me 1 on 1 in a real fight. That’s a fact,” Paul wrote. “His team has hit my team numerous times to do one of his ‘exhibitions’. Now he ambushes me. Come see me in the ring, real fight, no exhibition robbing fans bullsh*t.”
Floyd will not see me 1 on 1 in a real fight. That’s a fact. His team has hit my team numerous times to do one of his “exhibitions”. Now he ambushes me ?. Come see me in the ring, real fight, no exhibition robbing fans bullshit.— Jake Paul (@jakepaul) March 9, 2023
Paul’s comments about exhibition bouts come in spite of his brother Logan competing in one such contest against Mayweather back in 2021. Incidentally, that’s also where Jake’s feud with “Money” appears to have started.
While in attendance at a pre-fight press conference, Paul sparked chaos by removing Mayweather’s hat. With that, as well as the latest clash, the groundwork has certainly been laid for a future collision inside the squared circle.
Would you like to see Jake Paul and Floyd Mayweather settle their differences in the ring?