Tag: GI News
Big Ramy Discusses Competition, Shares His Top Three Heading Into 2022 Olympia
Big Ramy shared who would be in the top-tier of his Olympia score card.
Big Ramy is at the top of the bodybuilding world after two consecutive Olympia titles. He will be fighting for his third in a row come December. During a recent conversation, Ramy took some time to discuss the competition and who he believes could finish top three at the show.
In 2020, Big Ramy dethroned Brandon Curry to win his first Olympia title. He successfully defended his title in 2021 and many believe he is the odds-on favorite to three-peat. Curry finished as the runner-up in each of the last two years.
Big Ramy began his training for the 2022 show shortly after winning in October. He admitted to not bringing his best package to the stage his last time out and it was because his prep began late. Now, he will not have that problem and will likely hit the Olympia stage shredded at an incredible size. Ramy has appeared as a guest poser sparingly over the last year but missed the 2022 Pittsburgh Pro.
There are few who can contend with the overall size of Ramy and that is why he is considered the favorite once again. So, who does Big Ramy think can finish in the top three?
Big Ramy Shares His Top Three
Big Ramy joined Dennis James on The Menace Podcast on YouTube for a conversation. He was asked by Milos Sarcev who his biggest rival is. The question changed to who would be his top three if Big Ramy was not competing in the show.
“I have to say William, Brandon, Hadi,” Big Ramy answered.
Hadi Choopan finished in third place last year and has been one of the top competitors in recent years. There are many veterans who believe that Choopan showed up in the best shape last year and could have won the title.
“I respect all of them. Hadi, his shape and conditioning is really good,” Ramy said.
William Bonac impressed many during the 2022 Arnold Classic, as he finished second to Curry. Bonac put himself in position to reclaim the Arnold Classic title and put a winning package together. He will look to keep it together heading into the Olympia.
Big Ramy continued to explain who his biggest rival is. He did not single out an competitor but focused on himself.
“Dennis asked me this question, and it’s not a political answer, I say this for a long time. It’s one words. It’s Ramy. If I am not 100%, I would be f***ed up,” Big Ramy said.
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Chris Bumstead Discusses Retirement, Taking “Year-By-Year” Approach: ‘My Answer Always Is That I Want One More Olympia’
Chris Bumstead admits it was “a little foolish” to try and predict when he will retire.
Chris Bumstead has created a brand for himself and has become one of the biggest stars in bodybuilding, despite of his division. Classic Physique continues to grow and Bumstead has a lot to do with it. In a recent interview, Bumstead explained how he has changed his views a bit on retirement and is now taking a “year-by-year” approach.
Bumstead was able to take the Classic Physique Olympia title from Breon Ansley in 2019 and has not relinquished it since. He is the reigning three-time champion and will be looking for his fourth in a row come December.
On social media, Bumstead has shared many videos of diets and workouts that he uses during his prep for the biggest show of the year. In the past, Bumstead has discussed retirement but he recently changed his tone and has taken on a different approach.
Chris Bumstead Taking “Year-By-Year” Approach
Chris Bumstead was asked about his retirement during a recent interview with Muscular Development Magazine. He admitted that he is not putting a timeline on his career.
READ MORE: Why Does Chris Bumstead Take Multiple Ice Baths Per Week?
“You talked a couple years ago about retiring by 30…You’ve got a good handle on your health now. Three titles already. You’re still only 27. Do you still think ‘I need to retire by this with this many titles’ or is it more year-by-year?” Bumstead was asked.
“I’m definitely taking it more year-by-year, for sure. I think it was a little foolish to try and predict the day that I would be ready to be done. I think it’s more something now, where I’m more genuinely, my answer always is ‘I want one more Olympia.’ So people will say ‘oh, so you’re done this year?’ And I’m like ‘no. I just want one more.’”
Then depending how this year goes and I feel, mentally and physically, and afterwards if I’m excited and hungry for more, I’m going to do another. If I don’t, I won’t,” Bumstead said.
Chris Bumstead continued to explain how this mindset has allowed him enjoy competing and enjoying the moment rather than setting goals and limits.
“Having that kind of detachment that I don’t have to do it has allowed me to fall into a mindset where I get to compete and I’m more excited to. It’s something that I’m grateful for being able to do instead of something that I have to do saying ‘I have to compete and be a five-time, six-time champion.’ I get one more year at least. I’m going to give it my all. Depending on that, I might give it another one. Just enjoying the minute.”
Chris Bumstead leads the way for a division in bodybuilding that is growing, both in size and in talent. The expectations from the public can put pressure on competitors and Bumstead believes that this is one of the biggest challenges each year.
“It’s more of a mental challenge to continuously stay on top and keep doing things, and when there’s a lot of outside noise coming in constantly, the eyes are on you, expectations are on you, and that can change things for sure.”
What we do know is that Chris Bumstead will be on stage come December looking for his fourth consecutive title. Following the 2022 Olympia, we will learn a bit more about the future of Bumstead on stage.
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Shaquille O’Neal Shares Physique Update Showing Off Abs Following Workout
Shaquille O’Neal continues to transform his physique.
Shaquille O’Neal enjoyed a career on the court that landed him in the Hall of Fame. Now, he continues his career in basketball as an analyst. In retirement, O’Neal has found a passion for fitness and continues to transform his physique. He recently shared a physique update showing off his defined abs following a workout.
Shaq is considered one of the most, if not the most, dominant player in NBA history. He averaged 23.7 points and 10.9 rebounds during a career that included four NBA Championships and an MVP award following the 1999-2000 season. O’Neal even has a passion for bodybuilding and has followed the sport over the years.
Shaquille O’Neal was named an honorary ambassador for the 2020 Olympia. In 2021, he attended the Arnold Classic and took some time to meet Arnold Schwarzenegger. It is clear that O’Neal has put in some work in the gym following his latest update.
Shaquille O’Neal Continues To Make Changes In The Gym
At 50 years old, Shaquille O’Neal is making some changes to his lifestyle. Last year, he revealed his diet and workout plan. It consisted of protein shakes and a complete change to his diet. In the gym, O’Neal works out an hour a day and has incorporated cardio.
The results are clear as Shaq showed off his defined abs to his 26.9 million followers on Instagram.
In 2018, Shaquille O’Neal jokingly called out Phil Heath and shared a posing routine of his own. Shaq has been knowledgable about the bodybuilding world for years now and that is going to continue as he is a fan of the sport.
During his NBA career, Shaq used his incredible size and strength to dominate opponents down low. He built an NBA career that has him as one of the best of all-time and now, the changes to his routine are paying off.
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The IFBB Indy Pro To End After Seven Years Of Competition
The Indy Pro has officially ended after years of competition.
There are certain shows over the course of the bodybuilding season that gain more attention than others. The Indy Pro was in that category. Known as one of the top shows of the year, the Indy Pro held an Olympia qualification for winners but it looks like the 2022 event will be the last. In a recent announcement, Dave Bowers has decided to end the IFBB Indy Pro after seven years of competition.
Over the years, the Indy Pro has featured some of the top talent in bodybuilding. Blessing Awodibu won this year’s competition, taking the crown from Justin Rodriguez. Steve Kuclo became a back-to-back champion after winning the show in 2018 and 2019.
Bowers decided to make the decision because of many aspects, from “family” to “logistics business.”
Dave Bowers: “IFBB Indy Pro Has Retired”
Bowers took to the official Indy Pro Instagram account to make the announcement on Thursday afternoon.
“It’s been a wonderful 7 years getting to know so many great athletes, sponsors and spectators. We’re blessed the IFBB & NPC supported us every step of the way. This decision is solely based on the need to focus my time on our Logistics businesses, employees, and family. Thank you all for everything….. maybe you’ll see me on stage in the future. Yours in Bodybuilding, DB”
Following the announcement, there are many athletes who have made statements in the comment section. This includes the likes of Nathan Epler and Hassan Mostafa. Yumon Eaton also commented after making his pro debut at this year’s event.
The Indy Pro will be missed moving forward because of the impact that it had on bodybuilding as a whole. Now, competitors will have to focus on other shows in order to make up for the loss of the Indy Pro.
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Iain Valliere Criticizes Derek Lunsford’s Special Invite, Claims “There Is No Excuse Not To” Qualify During A Show
Iain Valliere shared his thoughts on Derek Lunsford receiving a special invitation to the 2022 Olympia.
Derek Lunsford officially received a special invitation to compete in Men’s Open at the 2022 Olympia. Naturally, this decision was going to ruffle some feathers from those who disagree with the decision. Iain Valliere decided to share his opinion and criticize the process claiming that Lunsford could have competed in a show.
On Instagram, Bi’s and Tri’s shared the news of Lunsford receiving an invitation. Valliere appeared in the comments section of the post sharing his thoughts on the decision.
“My main issue with it here is absolutely no effort was made to qualify and go through the proper channels like everyone else competing there, and there is still plenty of shows, so there is really no excuse not to. He was in good shape all the way back in Pittsburgh for the guest posing, he easily could have done a show and qualified, but instead he used the extra time to be better for the O and rely on an invite. Just not a kosher move imo.”
Derek Lunsford and the 2022 Olympia
Derek Lunsford appeared as a guest poser during the 2022 Pittsburgh Pro. This is when he got the initial chance to show off the size that he put on next to other mass monsters in Men’s Open. The event in Pittsburgh took place during the first week of May so Iain Valliere believes Lunsford should have entered a show over the summer to qualify for the Olympia.
Valliere was victorious at the 2021 Texas Pro and Tampa Pro in back-to-back weeks to qualify for the Olympia. This year, he won the Vancouver Pro and will now appear at the biggest show once again. As for Lunsford, he is the reigning 212 Olympia champion and will now have a chance to compete in the biggest division.
There were many who believed that Derek Lunsford would miss the Olympia if he did not receive this invite. The size that he put on would be difficult to lose to get back down to 212. At the same time, he was not qualified for Men’s Open.
Nonetheless, we will see what Derek Lunsford has to offer in Men’s Open come December. Do you believe that Iain Valliere is right to criticize the decision? This will be an added storyline heading into the event.
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Strongman Commentator Eddie Butler Has Passed Away At 65 Years Old
Eddie Butler became known for his incredible work commentating the World’s Strongest Man competition.
Eddie Butler, legendary strongman commentator and Rugby player, has passed away at the age of 65. Many sources have reported that Butler died in his sleep while on a charity mission on the Inca Trail in Peru.
Butler became known for commentating the World’s Strongest Man competitions. He was the voice of Strongman competitions because of his language and tone. Butler even went on to work for BBC over the course of his career.
“The World’s Strongest Man is saddened by the news that legendary commentator Eddie Butler has passed. We will forever be grateful to Eddie for giving his voice to a golden age of Strongman. Rest in strength.”
The Career Of Eddie Butler On The Field And Behind The Mic
Eddie Butler was an incredible Rugby player before taking his talents to the mic. During the 70s and 80s, Butler helped Pontypool reach elite status in Welsh Rugby. Butler had a chance to play 16 games for the National Team during his career.
Butler moved to commentary after retiring from Rugby. He was known for his work in Strongman but also had the chance to commentate the Olympics and Rugby.
Burnage Rugby Football Club posted a tribute to Butler on Instagram. The page described Butler as “one of the best sports commentators around” because of “his iconic deep welsh tones becoming synonymous with rugby and 6 Nations.”
Many Strongmen have had the chance to meet and get to know Butler over the years. They have shared condolences via social media following the sad news.
Generation Iron sends condolences to the family and friends of Eddie Butler during this time. For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Derek Lunsford Has Received Special Invitation To Compete In Men’s Open Division During 2022 Olympia
Derek Lunsford will now have a chance to compete in Open bodybuilding!
Reigning 212 Olympia champion Derek Lunsford will now have a chance to compete in a different division. After speculation, Lunsford has received a special invitation to compete in the Men’s Open division during the 2022 Olympia.
Lunsford submitted a formal request to receive a special invitation for the biggest show of the year and it was approved by Olympia promoters and the IFBB Professional League.
“After careful consideration, the Olympia promoters and the IFBB Professional League have granted Lunsford a Special Invitation. The addition of Lunsford further bolsters what many are calling “one of the best lineups” in the history of the event.”
Greg has covered the four major sports for six years and has been featured on sites such as Sports Illustrated, Fox Sports, SB Nation, NJ.com, and FanSided. Now, he is transitioning into the world of bodybuilding and strength sports.
Hunter Labrada Says “Low Volume, High Intensity” Training Benefits Enhanced And Natural Athletes
Hunter Labrada reveals his thoughts on enhanced and unenhanced lifting strategies.
Men’s Open bodybuilder Hunter Labrada has become one of the top competitors in the world. He is currently working to build a championship physique for the 2022 Olympia. During training, Labrada took some time to give viewers tips on how to train if you are an enhanced or unenhanced athlete.
Labrada has bodybuilding in his blood. His father, Lee Labrada, was an elite competitor during his career. Now, Hunter Labrada is working to capture the elusive Sandow Trophy. In 2021, Labrada won the Chicago Pro and qualified for the biggest show of the year. He finished fourth at the Olympia in October.
There are many who believe Big Ramy will win his third consecutive title come December. Labrada finished behind Ramy, Brandon Curry, and Hadi Choopan. It will be interesting to see if he can make a jump over any competitor he finished behind.
Hunter Labrada Believes Lifters Should Focus On Intensity
Hunter Labrada shared tips on how enhanced athletes should train compared to natural lifters. He believes the best way is to focus on intensity rather than volume.
“I’d like to say based off of people’s body of work and the people that are at the very top of the bodybuilding food chain right now, most of them are training in a relatively low volume, high intensity fashion.
Which, surprise — it’s the best way you can be training as a non-enhanced athlete. Why? For the exact reason that enhanced athletes recover better; you are not recovering better. You need to pick and choose your battles.”
Despite your status as an enhanced lifter or not, Hunter Labrada believes that all should focus on the same strategies in order to build muscle and speed up recovery.
“I know this might be surprising, but at the end of the day, the best thing that you can do as a non-enhanced lifter is to truly lift like an enhanced lifter. Bang caveat being that progressive overload training style.”
Hunter Labrada Explains The Purpose Of Steroids
The amount of weight that bodybuilders can move in the gym over the course of a workout is eye-opening. Labrada explained that the use of steroids helps during recovery and this helps do more in the gym.
“I want you to take a step back and think about what all of those steroids that we are taking do. They greatly enhance your recovery capabilities, meaning we can do more work in the gym versus someone who isn’t. So… what does that mean? That means the non-enhanced lifters should be at the level of volume or even a lower level of volume than the enhanced lifters.”
There are many athletes who claim to be natural because of the reputation that steroids have. This is something that Hunter Labrada spoke on in the beginning of the video. He believes that no matter if you are enhanced or natural, it is nothing to discuss or be ashamed of.
I’m going to preface this by saying: if you are natty, good for you. If you are enhanced, good for you. If you are either of them and you brag about it and take pride in the fact and tear others down who are the opposite, shame on you,” Hunter Labrada said.
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Regan Grimes Announces He Will Not Compete At 2022 Olympia, Plans To Put On 15 Pounds Of Muscle
Regan Grimes announced that he will sit out the Olympia to add some more size.
Regan Grimes has not competed since March and now, fans will have to wait until next year to see him back on stage. Grimes announced on Cutler Cast with Jay Cutler that he will sit out the 2022 Olympia. He plans to put on 15 pounds of muscle to compete with the size on stage.
Grimes qualified for the 2022 Olympia after winning the 2021 Egypt KO Pro. He continued to compete to see where the matched up with the other competitors. Grimes finished as the runner-up to Shaun Clarida during the 2021 Legion Sports Fest before seventh-place finishes during the Arnold Classic and Boston Pro.
Following Boston, Grimes announced that he would be taking some time off to prepare for the Olympia. Now, he will take even more time to make some changes to his physique.
Regan Grimes Shares Plan For Next Season
Regan Grimes made the official announcement on the podcast, which was released on Thursday morning.
“We’ve decided to take it off this year and continue putting tissue on and we’ll hit a show next year and go to Olympia,” Regan Grimes said.
“I’m 14 weeks out from the Olympia and I need to put on 15 pounds of muscle to compete. I’ve been competing for the last 10 years and I think this is the time to take a year off.”
Regan Grimes continued to explain the aspects that went into this decision. Grimes and Milos Sarcev ultimately felt like this was the best course of action to prepare for next year.
“We did the Arnold’s, but unfortunately, I got sick halfway through. We were going to keep pushing and hoped the body would start responding. After Arnold, Boston and Reno, we had a 12-week and 12-week break, and then 24 weeks out from the Olympia, we started discussing something and around 13-14 weeks out.”
Milos Sarcev Believes Regan Grimes Needs More Size To Compete With Big Ramy
Milos Sarcev had plenty of positive things to say about Grimes’ physique. He is a well-conditioned competitor who brings great symmetry as well. Now, he will have to add more muscle in order to compete with the size of Big Ramy. There are many who believe Ramy is unbeatable is he comes to the Olympia shredded.
He blows them out of the water as far as symmetry, balance and shape, but they’re still going to beat him in this mass department. Nowadays you have to have size to compete with Big Ramy,” Milos Sarcev said.
Regan Grimes now has a plan moving forward and will begin putting it into motion. Fans will look forward to seeing Grimes qualify for the 2023 Olympia and ultimately compete on the biggest stage.
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Bodybuilding Legend Bill Pearl Has Passed Away At 91 Years Old
Golden Era bodybuilder Bill Pearl passed away in his home early Wednesday morning.
Former Mr. Universe champion and Golden Era bodybuilding legend Bill Pearl has passed away at the age of 91. Pearl, who enjoyed incredible success on stage, was battling Parkinson’s disease and this might have played a role in his death. The news was announced on Wednesday by Pearl’s wife, Judy Pearl, on his official Facebook page.
Pearl was recently involved in a mower accident and picked up a bacterial infection while he was in the hospital. He was able to overcome the infection thanks to “intense antibiotic therapy.” Judy Pearl shared a long message on behalf of her husband.
“TO ALL OUR FAITHFUL FACEBOOK FRIENDS:
As you all know, Bill has overcome a lot of things that would have taken down a lesser man in this past year.
just as he was getting back in the gym after his accident, he developed a bacterial infection (pseudomonas) which he apparently picked up while in the hospital. after intense antibiotic therapy, he overcame that.
i believe the parkinsons finally defeated him.
he passed away peacefully at home at 4:00 AM this morning.”
The Legendary Career Of Bill Pearl
At 22 years old, Bill Pearl served in the United States Navy. He was stationed in San Diego and began training at Leo Stern’s gym. In 1953, he competed for the first time as a professional, winning the AAU Mr. California and Mr. America competitions.
That same year, Pearl won the first of four NABBA Mr. Universe titles. In 1956, Pearl captured the Mr. USA title. Aside from his career on stage, Peal began managing several gyms and even dabbled in owning. This includes his purchase of George Redpath’s gym in 1962, which was one of the first co-ed gyms in the country.
Following his career on stage, Bill Pearl worked as a trainer, coaching nine Mr. America winners and 14 Mr. Universe champs. He also wrote three books, where he continued to share his knowledge of fitness.
Bill Pearl won six Lifetime Achievement Awards following his career from many outlets. In 2004, he was awarded the Arnold Schwarzenegger Lifetime Achievement Award for his incredible work in bodybuilding.
“All day yesterday he was fretting about his facebook page,and had me post a couple of things he had prepared.
He loved to share stories of other peoples triumphs and accomplishments.
he had written a lot while his page was down last year which he asked me to continue to post.
He so much appreciated your prayers and messages of encouragement after his accident. He loved reading your comments and arguements. It kept him occupied when he was unable to do much physically. Thank you all. I know we will all miss him,” Judy Pearl wrote on Facebook.
Generation Iron sends condolences to the family and friends of Bill Peal during this time. For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.