Tag: nEWS
WATCH: Larry Wheels Crushes 827lb Triple Squat
Larry Wheels has been putting up crazy numbers in recent training sessions.
Larry Wheels is known for pulling off eye-popping lifts and he is back at it again. In a recent training session, Wheels destroyed an 827lb squat for a triple — and did it with relative ease.
Wheels is back to training with monstrous weight and has been posting some recent work on social media. For this incredible lift, Wheels took to Instagram to show his recent progress.
“827×3Wait for it… then wait for it again. Then wait for it one more time!@teampersonalrecord“
Larry Wheels spent some time arm wrestling and took on some of the best competitors in the world. This includes Aleksandr “Schoolboy” Toproll, who is one of the best in the world today. The two linked up twice for some memorable events. Now, Wheels seems to have his focus back on powerlifting and is back to moving some unimaginable weight.
An 827lb squat is no joke. Wheels makes this lift look effortless for a triple and there are many aspects at work here. The patience that the 26-year-old has is incredible and he maintains the same form, even with a full-grown grizzly bear on his back.
This is the most recent accomplishment for Wheels. On Aug. 1, he shared a video of a 852lb squat for a double. He has also excelled in other areas such as a 515lb shoulder press and an 875lb sumo deadlift.
The weight that Wheels has been moving recently makes one think that he has big things in mind for the near future. As of now, we know that he plans to compete on Sept. 11 at the IPS Long Island Insurrextion.
This is where Larry Wheels could continue to attempt different personal records. The arm-wrestling journey was exciting but powerlifting is better with Wheels in the game. If his social media is any indication, it is clear that Wheels is back to fully focusing on weightlifting and is doing it in a big way.
The Rock Responds To A Viral Picture Of His Doppelgänger
Lt. Eric Fields has gone viral for looking just like Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson.
Dwayne Johnson, also known as The Rock, has done it all. He became the biggest star in WWE before shifting to the big screen and becoming one of the highest-grossing actors in the world. Now, he has gone viral for a recent picture of his doppelgänger.
The Rock’s lookalike is Alabama police officer — Lt. Eric Fields, who works for the Morgan County Sheriff’s Office. A recent picture of the duo was tweeted out and The Rock responded for his 15.3 million followers and more.
“Oh shit! Wow. Guy on the left is way cooler. Stay safe brother and thank you for your service. One day we’ll drink @Teremana
and I need to hear all your “Rock stories” because I KNOW you got ‘em
#ericfields”
Oh shit! Wow.Guy on the left is way cooler.Stay safe brother and thank you for your service. One day we’ll drink @Teremana and I need to hear all your “Rock stories” because I KNOW you got ‘em ????? #ericfields https://t.co/G38tOr68cW
— Dwayne Johnson (@TheRock) August 31, 2021
For the record, Teremana is The Rock’s tequila that is growing rapidly. There is no doubt that Fields has stories about being compared to The Rock. He has mentioned that Johnson and Vin Diesel are his two most-frequent mentions.
“It’s always been a running joke of people saying I resemble the Rock or Vin Diesel and I just go with it,” Fields told WBRC, Fox’s affiliate in Birmingham, AL.
Fields continued by saying even his wife enjoys the comparisons. Since this picture came out, both The Rock and Fields has commented. The Morgan County Sheriff’s Office has even invited the movie star out to patrol with Fields.
This entire story began with a TikTok video posted by an Alabama resident and tagging The Rock. From that point on, residents began asking for pictures with Fields and it went onto the Morgan County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page. Fields is a 37-year-old who has worked in the sheriff’s office for 17 years.
The Rock is known for his incredible physique, both from WWE and in movies. Now, the question remains — will Johnson ever find a way to connect with his doppelgänger? The world will be waiting to see.
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Ryan Terry Answers: Does Respect For Men’s Physique From Men’s Open Bodybuilders Matter?
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Ryan Terry weighs in: Does it matter whether or not Men’s Open bodybuilders respect Men’s Physique?
Ryan Terry is an accomplished Men’s Physique competitor from the UK. Growing up, he was always inspired by the work ethic of Men’s Open bodybuilders – but he knew genetically he could never reach that kind of mass monster size. That’s why Men’s Physique ultimately was the perfect fit for him. Suddenly he can follow in the work ethic footsteps of bodybuilders he admired – but also compete with a smaller physique that better fits his goals.
It’s no secret that some (but not all) Men’s Open bodybuilders criticize Men’s Physique. There has been a long history of Men’s Open competitors jabbing or mocking Men’s Physique. Antoine Vaillant jokingly did a guest posing in board shorts. Bodybuilding legend and mass monster Paul Dillet called Men’s Physique at the Olympia “laughable.” The list can go on. Many of these men are bodybuilders that Ryan Terry always respected and looked up to. Does this kind of lack of respect bother him? In our latest GI Exclusive interview, Ryan Terry shares his thoughts on the relationship between Men’s Open and Men’s Physique.
We had a chance to connect with Ryan Terry via video chat and discuss his bodybuilding origins, opinions on trending topics, and his future plans. When discussing on how Terry discovered bodybuilding – it was clear he had a deep reverence for legends in the Men’s Open division. His step father was even a super heavyweight competitor during Terry’s childhood.
Ultimately, Ryan Terry wanted to apply the bodybuilding work ethic to his life. At first not to become a competitor – but to feel better about his body. He knew he could never be a mass monster but still wanted to train and build that kind of work ethic. He eventually discovered Men’s Physique and it was a perfect fit. He quickly went pro and has found great success in his bodybuilding career.
But does it bother him that the very athletes that inspired him – occasionally disrespect Men’s Physique. It ranges from innocent jokes to straight out comments diminishing the division. How does that affect Terry’s view of Men’s Open and the legends that motivated him?
Ryan Terry doesn’t think it matters much. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion and Men’s Physique will remain a popular division regardless of what Men’s Open athletes think. While Terry would love to gain more respect from mass monster competitors – his respect for them remains. Their accomplishments and how they inspired future generations (such as himself) remain in tact.
“To be honest with you I respect all athletes,” Ryan Terry states in our interview. He continues:
“I respect them. I respect what they’ve achieved and stuff. I would love for them to acknowledge and respect what we do as well but I don’t lose sleep over it. That’s up to them. That doesn’t change the way I train. It doesn’t change the way I think about my sport. I can take it or leave it.”
Ryan Terry believes that everyone is entitled to their own opinions. What Men’s Open feel and think have no bearing on Terry’s life as a Men’s Physique competitor. It also doesn’t change what Men’s Open bodybuilders have achieved. So his respect remains in tact. He knows the kind of work ethic he puts in – and if Men’s Open want to acknowledge it, that’s fantastic. But if they don’t – that’s their decision. He’ll keep going forward with respect and hunger to improve and succeed.
You can watch Ryan Terry’s full comments about his bodybuilding origins, Men’s Open vs Men’s Physique, and more in our latest GI Exclusive interview segment above!
POWER 30: The Most Powerful People In Bodybuilding, Fitness, & Strength Sports (2021)
Presented by Generation Iron, the bodybuilding, strength sports, and fitness world is filled with a whose who of talented athletes, businessmen, and personalities, all of them leaving their own impact on the health and wellness industry. Generation Iron’s Power 30 honors thirty unique and important individuals who have left their mark on the bodybuilding, fitness, and strength sports industry this year.
The Power 30 is our annual attempt to create a ranking, through in depth discussions amongst our editorial staff, of the 30 athletes, CEOs, and personalities that have made an impact on bodybuilding this year.30Janet Layug
After spending years on the scene looking to pick up a dominant victory, Janet Layug got her chance to shine at the 2020 Olympia. A long time competitor with a beautiful physique, Layug was able to rise to the occasion and win the Ms. Bikini Olympia title. She blew the competition out of the water and made good on her incredible potential. While she won’t be defending her title in 2021, her 2020 victory will stand as a truly memorable one to say the least.
29George Farah
One of the greatest trainers in bodybuilding today, George Farah has been a great influence on the modern game. Training athletes like Kai Greene, Farah clearly has a ton of knowledge on how to build an impressive physique. With a recent health scare and his acquired knowledge, Farah has shifted his focus to the health and wellness of bodybuilders. He’s been using his supplement company and extensive knowledge to create a healthy space for bodybuilders to become the best versions of themselves.
28Edwin Mejia Jr.
Edwin Mejia Jr. has become a very influential figure in the industry. Over the past 10 years, he has helped the careers of some of the top fitness pros and bodybuilders in the industry such Kai Greene, Calum von Moger, Zac Perna and Zac Aynsley. Mejia has also been responsible for producing and managing the distribution of an extensive content slate which includes the award winning film, “Generation Iron,” the ‘Generation Iron’ series installments, ‘Ronnie Coleman The King’ (Netflix), ‘CT Fletcher My Magnificent Obsession’, Calum von Moger Unbroken’ and the ‘Dorian Yates Mass Monster’ life story biopic. Most recently he executive produced #1 debut releases such as Generation Iron: Natty 4 Life and Strength Wars: The Movie.
27Nick Walker
One of the young guns in modern bodybuilding, Nick Walker has cemented himself as one to watch on the scene. Already being touted as the second coming of Dorian Yates, Walker has the kind of size, development and potential that could see him become a future Olympia champion. His big win at the New York Pro 2021 seems to have cemented him as the most hyped pro bodybuilder rising in the sport. It will be exciting to see what he brings later this year at the Mr. Olympia.
26Joey Swoll
Joey Swoll is one of the most popular Instagram fitness celebrities. With an impressive physique and a unique personality, Joey Swoll has become one of the most recognized figures in the fitness and bodybuilding space. Recently releasing his own brand of low-calorie sauces, Joey Swoll continues to make waves as a budding entrepreneur. Beyond these many accomplishments, Swoll also struggled with pain killer addiction during the pandemic lockdowns. He has since recovered and made his experience public to help reach out to struggling individuals and athletes. With a goal to let those with addictions know they are never alone – he has further expanded his goals and endeavors in the fitness world.
25Shaun Clarida
Shaun Clarida made good on his potential as a top bodybuilding competitor this past December 2020. Clarida became the new 212 Olympia champion by bringing a truly impressive, chiseled, and well muscled frame. His physique has been called a “once and a career achievement” by many fellow athletes. Beyond division – his physique has been touted as one of the best of the past year… and might be the start of a Men’s 212 Olympia reign for years to come.
24Brandon Hendrickson
After failing to defend his Men’s Physique Olympia title back in 2019, Brandon Hendrickson was able to make a strong comeback in 2020. Motivating himself to overcome his weaknesses and improve upon them, Hendrickson was able to push himself to once again reclaim his title and do so in impressive and dominant fashion. He has now proved that this 2018 victory was no fluke and will perhaps be the dominant Men’s Physique champion for the foreseeable future.
23Mark Bell
Powerlifter, gym owner, former professional wrestler, Mark Bell has worn many different hats throughout his career. With his highly regarded Sling Shot brand helping lifters around the world, Mark Bell is an entrepreneur who has fully embraced the strength lifestyle. His popularity only continues to grow and he remains one of the most inspiring figures in the industry today.
22Julius Maddox
One of the strongest humans on the planet, Julius Maddox has yet again proven why he’s the king of the bench press. On a mission to conquer the 800lbs bench press, Maddox has once again broken the world record, breaking his previous record with a 782lbs lift. With another contender hot on his heels ready to contend for the world record, you can bet Julius Maddox will be in the gym doing what he does best.
21Brandon Curry
The 2019 Olympia champion acquitted himself well in 2020. While he was upset by Big Ramy, Brandon Curry was able to defeat the once dominant Olympia champion Phil Heath. His incredible physique can’t be denied and we could easily see him reclaiming his title in 2021 with just a few tweaks. Since his 2019 Olympia victory – he has become one of the key faces and voices of the IFBB.
20Jake Wood
Acquiring the Olympia brand back in 2019, Jake Wood was forced to undergo the impossible task of putting on the 2020 show amidst a pandemic. While it seemed like a truly impossible situation to overcome, Wood and his staff were able to deliver a truly impressive show. With less restrictions handicapping him and his team this year, Wood is likely to put on quite the show in 2021.
19Phil Heath
After failing to defend his title Phil Heath took time away from competing. In 2020 he made a triumphant return taking third at the Olympia after years away from being on stage. He cemented that despite becoming more advanced in age that he still has plenty left in the tank. After placing 3rd at the Olympia 2020, he has released a series of photo physique updates in 2021 with what seems like a further improved physique. With his recent improvements to his physique there’s still a possibility we could see Phil Heath bring an incredible package to the stage in the near future. And the buzz around his updates still prove he is one of the more powerful athletes in the sport.
18Michelle Lewin
A former bikini competitor, Michelle Lewin has seen it all in the fitness and bodybuilding industry. She has risen to become one of the most recognizable faces in the world with her over thirteen million Instagram followers and continues to grow her fan base with well constructed social media posts. Michelle showed great poise and heroism as she stood by her husband’s side through sickness. Even in their toughest hour, she was still able to stay strong and continue to keep her brand flourishing.
17Mike Rashid
One of the most influential fitness personalities on the web, Mike Rashid has proven to be a multifaceted talent. Not only has he ventured into professional boxing, Mike Rashid has also runs a successful supplement brand, Ambrosia, and continues to diversify his resume with a budding new podcast. It’s clear that he is one of the most charismatic and motivating figures in the fitness and bodybuilding industry.
16Mike O’Hearn
While many have questioned the legitimacy of his natural status, there’s no question that Mike O’Hearn is one of the hardest working bodybuilders in the business. His recent appearance in Generation Iron: Natty 4 Life offered an in-depth perspective on the life long bodybuilder and demonstrated just how much passion and energy he puts into being an ambassador for fitness and bodybuilding.
15Dorian Yates
One of the most influential bodybuilders of all time, Dorian Yates has completely reinvented himself in recent years. Dorian Yates: The Original Mass Monster captured the legendary champion in his days of yore. Since his reign as Olympia champion, Yates has gone on to be an advocate for psychedelics, yoga, and has even gone back to his bodybuilding roots with his own online training program. With a curious and entrepreneurial spirit, Dorian Yates continues to get better with age.
14Steve Weinberger
One of the most powerful figures in the IFBB, Steve Weinberger continues to be the example of the premiere bodybuilding judge. With the responsibility of deciding who will be Mr. Olympia, Weinberger is the one person with the most extensive knowledge of what a top champion should look like on stage. A powerful figure with a ton of influence.
The top judge in the IFBB Pro League, Steve Weinberger has cemented himself as one of the most powerful individuals in the industry. Working with high level talent on a daily basis, Steve Weinberger continues to push athletes to the next level with his intricate insight into building the human body into something only few can achieve. He is also the owner of the Bev Francis Powerhouse Gym – also known as the East Coast Mecca. A gym that remains to this day one of the most famous and historic bodybuilding gyms int he world.
13Ronnie Coleman
One of the most loved and respected bodybuilders in the history of the game, Ronnie Coleman took bodybuilding to heights never seen before. Always in high spirits despite the injuries he’s suffered throughout his career, Ronnie Coleman is a vision of determination and embodiment of never giving in no matter the difficulties faced.
12Tom Stoltman
Potential can only get you so far in the competitive strength space. After awhile, execution is necessary to standout. Tom Stoltman finally made good on his potential by dominating at the 2021 World’s Strongest Man. As champion, Stoltman has proven that he’s the real deal and now has the opportunity to build an even greater legacy for himself in the strongman space.
11Kai Greene
While many try to write off Kai Greene it’s still abundantly clear that he’s a powerhouse in the industry. The rumors of his return to action, variety show launch, numerous acting and business ventures show just how impressive, powerful, and influential Kai Greene is in the business. Since selling Dynamik Muscle and joining RedCon1, Kai Greene shows that he still has plenty of pull in the industry.
One of the hardest working people in the business, Kai Greene has proven himself to be a man of many talents. While he may not have stepped onto a competitive bodybuilding stage in quite some time, Kai Greene has remained relevant with his entertaining content and recent appearance in Generation Iron: Natty 4 Life.
10Bradley Martyn
A budding entrepreneur who got his start on the competitive scene, Bradley Martyn has turned his passion for bodybuilding into a multifaceted fitness empire. From opening up his own gym, Zoo Culture, to launching apparel lines, a supplement brand, and a podcast, Bradley Martyn has certainly become the picture of success in the bodybuilding and fitness industry. Keep your eye on this man as he continues to grow in the world of fitness!
9Jeff Cavaliere
A pro athlete trainer and popular YouTuber, Jeff Cavaliere has established himself as a powerhouse in the fitness industry. With his comprehensive knowledge on training and athletic performance, Cavaliere has and continues to make waves in the fitness space.
8Jay Cutler
One of the most successful businessmen in the bodybuilding and fitness industry, Jay Cutler has translated his impressive dedication for building muscle to building his supplement company and other ventures. The four-time Olympia champion looks to continue to thrive in his post pro bodybuilding career, and from the looks of things, Cutler will only continue to have tremendous success.
7Calum Von Moger
Calum von Moger went through some harrowing experiences in his career. The injuries he suffered would have stopped many in their tracks. Instead, Calum battled through the odds and was able to successfully attain his IFBB pro status back in November 2020. Building his Staunch brand into a powerhouse and now a certified pro, the future continues to look bright for the Generation Iron athlete.
One of the top fitness influencers in the world, Calum von Moger has been a great motivation for many facing adversity. While being a major force in the fitness and bodybuilding community in the online sphere, Calum has also made waves in spaces outside of the industry. Calum has appeared in a massive Gucci campaign, has continued to grow both his Staunch Nation Nutrition line and his training program, as well as starring as a young Arnold in the movie Bigger alongside Tyler Hoechlin and Julliane Hough. The documentary Calum von Moger: Unbroken showcased the kind of will, determination, and incredible mental fortitude the talented bodybuilder possesses – turning what could have been a career-ender for many into new challenge overcome with an even brighter future ahead of him.
6Hafthor Bjornsson
While he may not be going to battle with Eddie Hall this fall, Hafthor Bjornsson has accomplished a great deal in the calendar year. With his world record breaking 501kg deadlift and his consistent boxing competitions, Hafthor has cemented himself as one of the most adventurous strength athletes in the game today.
The 2018 World’s Strongest Man, Hafthor Bjornsson has proven himself to be a force in the strength community. The Game of Thrones actor proved he’s still one of the strongest humans on the planet after crushing the deadlift record with 501 kg lift. With strongman competitions now in his rear view, Hafthor Bjornsson has put all his focus on preparing for his battle against rival Eddie Hall in 2021.
5Larry Wheels
A strength athlete who has his hands in many ventures, Larry Wheels is not only an entrepreneur, but a man with a sense of adventure. His appearance in Strength Wars: The Movie further cemented the athlete as a man willing to take on any challenge in the strength field.
A man who constantly looks to better himself one lift at a time, Larry Wheels has come to be known as Mr. Personal Record. With hopes to compete in strongman events in the future, Larry Wheels is becoming one of the most influential and recognized figures in the strength community. He’s done powerlifting, he’s done bodybuilding. Can he make a name for himself in strongman?
4Chris Bumstead
Chris Bumstead showcased just how dominant of a champion he is with his victory at the 2020 Olympia. After a close victory in 2019, Bumstead would bring one of the most stellar physiques to ever step onto a bodybuilding stage. What we saw could be the beginning of a truly impressive reign as Classic Physique Olympia champion.
3Jim Manion
Undoubtedly one of the most powerful individuals in bodybuilding, Jim Manion continues to be a major influence in the industry. His sharp mind, business savvy, and leadership has taken the IFBB Pro League to all new heights. The mastermind behind all the machinations in the IFBB Pro League, Jim Manion has proven to be the glue that keeps the bodybuilding world together.
2Arnold Schwarzenegger
The Godfather of bodybuilding, Arnold Schwarzenegger continues to be an inspiration to most anyone who’s stepped onto a bodybuilding stage. Recent controversial statements withstanding, Arnold has been an advocate for not only strength sports, but other sporting endeavors as well. When faced with the harrowing circumstances of the last two years, Arnold has risen to the occasion. He was still able to put on one of the best bodybuilding shows in 2020, the Arnold Classic acting as a template for other shows to follow for over a year and a half now.
Considered by many to be the GOAT, Arnold Schwarzenegger is a not simply just an icon in bodybuilding, fitness, and entertainment, he’s a force of nature. Throughout 2020 Schwarzenegger has been a source of positive motivation and continues to encourage his followers despite the dark times we find ourselves in.
1Big Ramy
With his unexpected win at the 2020 Olympia, Mamdouh “Big Ramy” Elssbiay tops the list of this year’s Power 30 list. Big Ramy impressed with not only his incredible size that the bodybuilding world has come to know well. Big Ramy was able to maximize his potential by getting in some otherworldly condition. If he is able to come in the same great shape in 2021, this could be the beginning of a truly impressive reign as champion. After claiming the long sought after victory – he was signed on as the key sponsored athlete for Enhanced Labs. Big Ramy started from the bottom and has now risen to the top of bodybuilding. So too does he deserve to be at the top of this list.
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Regan Grimes Looks Massive Ahead of the Olympia at 300lbs
Regan Grimes is looking super jacked and Olympia ready at 300lbs.
It looks like Regan Grimes spent his off season very wisely. After earning his spot at the 2021 Olympia at the end of last year, Grimes has been hard at work in the gym. Grimes has been on a mission to boost his gains and gain a ton of muscle. From his recent updates to social media it appears that he’s done just that.
Regan Grimes has always had a great deal of potential. Since he hit the bodybuilding scene it was clear that he had the kind of physique that could take him to the top. Despite that, a few missteps in his career has delayed Grimes rise through the division. Grimes had a stint in the Classic Physique division, but the cut was just too much for his body and forced him to reevaluate which division was right for him. Now that he’s decided to stay in the Men’s Bodybuilding division, his sights have been focused on one goal, put on size to be able to contend with the best in the world.
Since making that decision Regan Grimes has put on some solid muscle. But his recent updates show a man who has outdone himself in regards to his incredible gains. His recent post shows Grimes tipping the scales at 300lbs.
300lb
Not only is Regan Grimes 300lbs, he appears to be tight, jacked and well defined. This version of Grimes is something we’ve never seen before. He could potentially break into the top 8 with this kind of physique.
What do you think of Regan Grimes and his current physique?
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Managing Editor 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.
Cedric McMillan Withdraws From 2021 Arnold Classic
Cedric McMillan will miss the event while still recovering from injuries.
Cedric McMillan was forced to miss the 2020 Olympia because of different injuries and operations. He was expected to make his return during the 2021 Arnold Classic in September in Columbus, Ohio. McMillan recently announced that his plans for a return will have to be put on hold.
McMillan shared a post on Instagram detailing his most recent setback. He is still recovering from surgery to repair a broken hand. McMillan received this operation back in February and has been unable to train. Unfortunately, fans will have to wait to see McMillan back on stage.
“Just wanted to let everybody know I won’t be able to compete at the Arnold this year as I’m still recovering and the docs were like “uhh nope Mr McMillan”, this is the first year I’ve missed since my first one in 2013. I can’t wait to get back on that stage. But guess what, I will be there as part of the broadcast team!,” Cedric McMillan wrote.
“Hopefully me and Arnold can call the show together, that would be an honor for me. I hope to help bring a different feel and experience to all of you that will be watching the show online. Pray for me that I don’t say to many curse words haha”
The Arnold Classic has an impressive lineup for the event and McMillan was set to be one of the biggest names. This also impacts McMillan’s status for the 2021 Olympia. It is now likely that he will have to miss his second-straight competition unless he receives a special invitation and can accept it.
Cedric McMillan last competed during the 2020 Arnold Classic, where he placed sixth. His last victory came during the 2019 Romans Muscle Fest Pro Men’s Bodybuilding. McMillan has competed in each Arnold Classic since 2013 with his best finish coming in 2018 when he placed third.
McMillan did not provide any specific details on his latest setback but it is likely that he will not be back on stage for awhile. Fans are hoping that he can get healthy and back to competing soon enough.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Victor Martinez Defends Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Freedom Comments
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Victor Martinez reacts to Arnold Schwarzenegger’s “Screw Your Freedom” comments.
Victor Martinez is a pro bodybuilder who is not afraid to speak his mind – but he’s also someone who likes to make sure he’s critically analyzed all the facts before he cements his opinion. That’s why he’s taken some time thinking over Arnold Schwarzenegger’s controversial freedom comments and the bodybuilding communities reaction to it. In our latest GI Exclusive interview, Victor Martinez explains his defense of Arnold Schwarzenegger’s freedom comments.
On August 13th, 2021, an interview with Arnold Schwarzenegger went viral across the bodybuilding, strength sports, and fitness community. Speaking on CNN, Schwarzenegger stated, “Screw your freedom” in response to Americans who were anti-mask mandates. You can see his full statement here. Schwarzenegger was stressing, albeit aggressively, that community health was more important than individual freedom where dangerous consequences could be endured.
The bodybuilding, strength sports, and fitness community ignited with many making statements on social media condemning Schwarzenegger’s statement. Some pulled down posters. In the biggest move, supplement company RedCon1 pulled out of sponsoring the Arnold Classic 2021 set to occur on September 25th.
Last week, we were able to reconnect with Generation Iron alum and pro bodybuilder Victor Martinez. During our catch up, Arnold Schwarzenegger’s comments were brought up. Perhaps somewhat surprisingly, Martinez defended Schwarzenegger and his statements. He also weighed in on the bigger fitness community’s angry reaction to the statement.
“You don’t need to explain it to me. I saw it. I saw it one time. I saw it one time and for some reason, yes, I know what he said, you know – ‘Screw your freedom.’ That became the focus,” Victor Martinez states in our interview. He continues:
“…There’s certain things you say where you think you can say them and right now a lot of people are too soft. They’re too soft on words. They’re too soft on what they hear. They jump the gun on smallest thing that really is irrelevant to what the person really is. I mean, I think Arnold is more American than most Americans actually.”
Not only does he think that people as a whole have become too sensitive. He also thinks they are misinterperating what Schwarzenegger really meant when he stated, “Screw your freedom.” Martinez goes further to try and explain his viewpoint:
“He didn’t say screw your freedom like when America became free in 1776 on July 4th and they declared their freedom… that’s not the kind of freedom Arnold said you know. Be responsible with your freedom, you know? Yes you are free but that doesn’t mean be carelessly free, you know? Wear your mask.”
Ultimately, Victor Martinez still holds extreme respect for Arnold Schwarzenegger. He finds that he has not only given back to the bodybuilding community throughout his entire life – but he’s also given back to America since becoming a citizen. This is a trying time for many people across the world. It’s causing gut reactions and bold statements that might be a bit too black and white.
It seems that Victor Martinez is trying to see the grey and the nuance during these troubling times. He believes Arnold Schwarzenegger believes in freedom but he also believes in responsibility. Do you agree or still find Schwarzenegger’s comments a step too far?
You can watch Victor Martinez’s full comments in our latest GI Exclusive interview segment above and decide for yourself!
Nizami Tagiev Is Critical Of Leroy Walker’s World Record Strict Curl
Nizami Tagiev does not believe Walker’s lift was legitimate.
The strict curl is a lift that used to be used in competition. The competitors’ head, upper body, and butt must remain against a wall while the lift is performed. This has become a popular exercise and one where many powerlifters have been eyeing the world record. On Saturday, Leroy Walker set a new world record with a 114kg (250lb) strict curl but there has been some controversy over it.
Walker beat the previous record set by Denis Cyplenkov in 2019 by a single kilogram. Russia’s Nizami Tagiev believes that Cyplenkov should still hold the record and does not recognize Walker’s lift as legitimate.
Tagiev took to Instagram to explain his reasoning and share a video of him performing a strict curl that is close to the record.
“I don’t wanna be a hater!I just want to say that if everyone compete for the world record then the rules should be the same for everyone.
I believe that LeRoy @lwthemachine is a strong athlete, but I do not recognize his record, just as Denis Tsyplenkov @cyplenkovden does not recognize him. This is not pride or vanity! If I saw a clean rise there, I would strive for it simply and accept the challenge with dignity!There’re too much questions:the elbows are bent too much, the assistants serve the barbell, the grip is narrow, the wall is narrow, honestly I have a lot of distrust of the weights on the barbell.”
It was originally said that Nizami Tagiev had 115kg on the bar when he completed this curl. This would have been enough to beat Walker’s record but it would not have been recognized because it was not confirmed while Walker’s record lift took place during a sanctioned event. Tagiev later confirmed that the weight in the video above was 110kg, not 115kg.
Tagiev continued by sharing criticism on the lift. He mentions how Walker’s elbows are too bent and how the wall and grip are narrow. Tagiev also mentions Cyplenkov and how the former record holder also rejects this lift. He ended his Instagram post with a call to action to judges when looking at lifts in the future — and even got backup from the likes of CT Fletcher, who commented “I totally agree with you.”
“I ask the organizers of the Arnold Classic, @arnoldsports which will be held in March ‘22 in the USA, to be seriously about all of that?? I repeat once again, the rules and judging should be the same for everyone! I am for fair sport and for justice! Respect for all athletes from different countries! And let’s be honest with ourselves firstly!”
Leroy Walker has yet to respond but has already been sharing a new goal on social media. Walker has his eyes on a 275-pound strict curl in the near future. Below, you can see Walker’s record-setting lift. Do you think it is legitimate?
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2021 IFBB Tokyo Pro Results
Yukihiro Yuasa wins Men’s Physique at the Tokyo Pro.
The 2021 IFBB Tokyo Pro was another chance for competitors to gain qualification to the 2021 Olympia. Many gathered to show what they can do on stage and the event did not disappoint. In Tokyo, Men’s Physique athletes got on stage and put on a show in hopes of punching their tickets to the year’s biggest event. In the end, it was Yukihiro Yuasa who was able to come out on top.
This will be Yuasa’s first trip to the Olympia since he began competing. In 2019, he placed sixth at the IFBB Japan Pro. Prior to that appearance, Yuasa made some noise in the Men’s Physique Class A division picking up victories at the 2018 Amateur Olympia and 2017 Amateur Arnold. This will be Yuasa’s biggest opportunity since becoming a pro and he earned the right to compete. Now, Yuasa will have a chance to go up against some of the best competitors in the world.
Yuasa led the way for a competition that featured some elite physique athletes. This was a small competition but the talent was high and an Olympia qualification was at stake. The results from Sunday have been announced. Below, you can find the full results from Sunday along with the official scorecard.
2021 IFBB Tokyo Pro Breakdown
Men’s Physique
First Place – Yukihiro Yuasa
Second Place – Hirokawa Shoichi
Third Place – Shogo Sata
Fourth Place – Edward Kato
Fifth Place – Tomohito Koike
Sixth Place – Junpei Taguchi
Seventh Place – Naoto Takemoto
Eighth Place – Nobuyuki Ichikawa
Official Score Cards
Generation Iron wishes to congratulate all the great athletes who earned a win at the IFBB Tokyo Pro. Make sure to check out our full IFBB Pro results page from this year and previous years right here to catch up on any action you may have missed!
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.
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