Tag: Power 30
POWER 30: The Most Powerful People In Bodybuilding, Fitness, & Strength Sports (2022)
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.30Edwin Mejia Jr.
One of the top film producers and managers in the fitness and bodybuilding industry, Edwin Mejia Jr. has helped generate massive interest in strength sports and bodybuilding in recent times. Co-producing the likes of the films such as the Generation Iron movie series, Ronnie Coleman: The King, CT Fletcher: My Magnificent Obsession, The Hurt Business, and the recent chart-topping Kai Greene documentary film titled – Kai, Mejia Jr. has become an influential figure in the industry. He continues to build mainstream appeal by bridging media across Netflix, Amazon, Apple TV, Hulu, Amazon and many platforms worldwide.
29Denny Kakos
The INBA and PNBA founder and president, Denny Kakos put natural bodybuilding on to the map. Kakos has helped to bring a spotlight to natural bodybuilding at a time when untested bodybuilding is at its height of popularity. While there are many natural bodybuilding leagues – only the INBA/PNBA league stands tall as a unifying force in the mainstream of bodybuilding. Kakos is the perfect person to cultivate the natural scene and bring it to the mainstream.
28Domenic Iacovone
A budding and successful entrepreneur carving out his name in the bodybuilding and fitness space, Domenic Iacovone is certainly an individual to watch in the industry. Founder of the R3VIVE Medical Franchise which is making waves in the supplement world, Iacovone is quickly asserting himself as one of the fitness industries budding new powerful figures.
27Matt Jansen
Matt Jansen is a major authority in the bodybuilding community. Having trained the likes of Dallas McCarver, Nathan De Asha, and most recently helping cultivate the up-and-coming Nick Walker, it’s safe to say Jansen is a coach of repute. Most recently, Jansen has helped Shaun Clarida realize his dream as a 212 Olympia king – showing that he has the wealth of knowledge to turn the top pros into champions.
26Mark Bell
After his wildly successful powerlifting career, Mark Bell has shifted focus to becoming one of the most respected podcast figures in the fitness space. Along with his Sling Shot sleeve brand, Bell has established himself as an intelligent entrepreneur always looking to reinvent himself. His podcast, The Power Project, is one of the top podcasts in the bodybuilding, strength, and fitness space – it’s definitely worth a look and listen.
25George Farah
One of the top bodybuilding coaches in the world today, George Farah is still cultivating top champions in the IFBB Pro League. Having worked with the likes of Kai Greene and competing with legends in the sport, Farah has a massive wealth of knowledge that has kept him at the top of the sport. Having most recently worked with top prospect Andrew Jacked to help him secure his first major IFBB Pro League victory, Farah has his hand on the pulse of bodybuilding and will remain a fixture for years to come.
24Michal Krizo
There’s no question about it. Michal Krizo is one of the top prospects in the IFBB Pro League. What started as a crossover curiosity from the IFBB Elite Pro league – news of Krizo’s move to the IFBB Pro league sent waves through the industry. With so many respected figures singing his praises, including former reigning Olympia Jay Cutler (who compared him favorably to Phil Heath), the future is bright for Krizo who has real potential to become an Olympia champion.
23Milos Sarcev
The veteran bodybuilder turned trainer has been earning his legendary status recently. Taking talented bodybuilders under his wing like Regan Grimes and giving pointers to the talented Andrew Jacked, there’s no question that Milos Sarcev remains a major player in the bodybuilding scene. With his wealth of knowledge there’s no doubt that we’ll be seeing more and more competitors win championships under the tutelage of Sarcev.
22Hany Rambod
A twenty-time Olympia winning coach, Hany Rambod is the premiere bodybuilding trainer of our time. Helping many pros reach the promise land and beyond, Rambod has helped Jay Cutler, Phil Heath, and Jeremy Buendia obtain Olympia glory on multiple occasions. These days Rambod is helping Hadi Choopan in his own quest for the Sandow and was behind the scenes with Derek Lunsford as he earned the Olympia 212 title this past year. Clearly, Rambod has not slowed down – his knowledge as coach is truly indispensable still to this day.
21Larry Wheels
One of the most popular strength athletes in the world today, Larry Wheels is always looking to reinvent himself. When he’s not breaking personal records in one strength sport or another, Larry Wheels is training alongside some of the best athletes in the world. If he’s able to hold his own with the likes of Hafthor Bjornsson in strongman, train with the up-and-coming Andrew Jacked, and still remain dedicated to his powerlifting, there’s no doubt that Larry Wheels will be considered one of the best all around strength athletes of all time.
20Mike Rashid
Having carved out a space for himself in the fitness industry, Mike Rashid has become an authority in the space. Never afraid to reinvent himself and explore the many different avenues of fitness, Rashid is a man who has garnered respect and a loyal following through his actions and consistent hard work. Years of success through proven projects and his partnership with Trifecta Nutrition show that more than ever Rashid is still a dominant force within the industry.
19Phil Heath
The seven-time Olympia champion himself, Phil Heath is still going strong. While he has not competed in almost two years, his popularity among bodybuilding fans hasn’t waned one bit. Most notably, Heath is set to be the color commentator for the 2022 Mr. Olympia. The former Olympia champion has also hinted at a comeback in the future, and he still has the potential to challenge the competitors at the top of the division. As he said himself, “It ain’t over yet, I’m just getting started!”
18Michelle Lewin
A former bikini competitor, Michelle Lewin has seen it all in the fitness and bodybuilding industry. One the most popular and recognize figures in the fitness industry, Michelle continues to build upon her fitness empire. Having made it through a tough time her husband Jimmy Lewin, the two are now expecting their first child together. But that hasn’t slowed down Michelle one bit. She continues to provide quality training programs to her millions of loyal followers.
17Chul Soon Hwang
A popular figure who has brought awareness to bodybuilding in his native South Korea, Chul Soon Hwang has garnered world renown for his incredible physique and multitude of talents. Through his dominant victories on the Muscle Mania stage to his turns in acting and modeling gigs, Chul Soon has gained quite a bit of notoriety both in and out of the bodybuilding industry. Massively popular on social media, Chul Soon has amassed an army of loyal followers in the millions making him one of the most influential and recognized figures in the fitness and bodybuilding space.
16Tom Stoltman
Tom Stoltman is one of the strongest humans walking the Earth – literally. After winning the 2021 World’s Strongest Man competition, Stoltman followed it up by repeating the feat in 2022. Stoltman has broken many records during his tenure as a strongman and his two World’s Strongest Man victories are icing on the cake. With how incredible his last several showings have been, it would come as no surprise if Tom Stoltman maintains a stranglehold in the strongman world.
15Big Ramy
The reigning Mr. Olympia, Mamdouh “Big Ramy” Elssbiay has proven twice that he is the best bodybuilder on the planet. Ramy caused quite some controversy earlier in the year after he skipped out of the prestigious guest posing spectacle at Jim Manion’s Pittsburg Pro. But his most recent update makes it clear that the Egyptian bodybuilder is still the favorite to walk away once again with the Mr. Olympia title. If he continues to come in shredded and well-conditioned the question will shift from if Big Ramy can win to how many Sandows can he collect.
14Dan Soloman
President and Chief Olympia Officer Dan Solomon is at the heart of the 200-billion-dollar fitness industry. Responsible for putting on the Olympia year after year, you could argue that Solomon is the most important behind-the-scenes figure in bodybuilding today. Always looking to bring something fresh to the table, it will be interesting to see where Dan Solomon leads the Olympia show next.
13Steve Weinberger
Head judge of the IFBB Pro League Steve Weinberger is one of the most important men in bodybuilding today. Weinberger sets the standard for what we see in competition today and without his vision many wouldn’t have a road map to traverse in their journey for bodybuilding supremacy. His continued dedication to the evolution of bodybuilding will be paramount in the years to come.
12Hafthor Bjornsson
One of the most popular figures in the strength industry with a ton of crossover appeal, Hafthor Bjornsson has reached a new audience thanks to his most recent endeavors. In his boxing match with rival Eddie Hall, the 2018 World’s Strongest Man showed that he was serious about the craft and looked the part of a polished boxer. Bjornsson has always looked to push limits in his career and his victory over Hall has given him a taste for continuing his boxing journey. When he’s not throwing down in the ring or breaking deadlift world records, you can be sure to find Bjornsson tackling some kind of endeavor in the entertainment industry truly making him a force.
11Ronnie Coleman
The eight-time Mr. Olympia king, Ronnie Coleman has remained popular and relevant in modern times through his continued motivational training to his successful supplement line. 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.
10Nick Walker
One of the most talented bodybuilders in the world today, Nick Walker has shown and proved that he’s the future of the bodybuilding division. Winning the 2021 Arnold Classic and breaking into the top five at his first Olympia show proved that there’s a ton of upside to this young man. His massive size and yearning to improve every fine detail make him a threat to the top of the Men’s Open division. His progress has been so impressive – there are many who predict he can be a threat to Big Ramy’s throne this year and become the new Mr. Olympia champion. Only time will tell.
9Jake Wood
The Olympia owner himself Jake Wood has done well to keep the brand afloat after purchasing the event and brand name from AMI. The pandemic could have destroyed, or at the very least cancelled, the Olympia event in these last couple years, but through his ingenuity and business smarts Jake Wood was able to overcome the hardship and succeed where others would have faltered. He is considered a key component of bringing back the Ms. Olympia into the schedule. And he continues to be determined to transform the biggest event in the year into a more accessible, more finely produced competition worth of its title.
8Mike O’Hearn
A long-time and avid bodybuilder, Mike O’Hearn is a staple in the industry. The self-proclaimed natural bodybuilder has taken his fair share of criticism over the years. Despite the detractors and the naysayers, Mike O’Hearn has proven time and again to be a truly impressive bodybuilder. Most recently, O’Hearn has launched The Mike O’Hearn Show co-produced by Generation Iron and Barbend to give audiences a deeper look into his life including his training and his opinions on the latest happenings in the bodybuilding world. In addition to this, he is set to appear in the upcoming feature film – Magazine Dreams.
7Bradley Martyn
A budding entrepreneur who got his start in the competitive bodybuilding scene, Bradley Martyn has turned his passion for bodybuilding into a multifaceted fitness empire. From opening 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!
6Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson
Always looking to improve himself physically, mentally, and financially, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson remains one of the most influential figures in the fitness world. When he’s not dominating the film and liquor industries, The Rock is showcasing that age is nothing but a number with his incredible physique and inspiring training online. Most notably, this year he will appear as Black Adam in the DCEU – brining his hulking bodybuilding frame to the superhero world. He’s also set to break into the promotional side of bodybuilding as well as professional football proving that The Rock is a force to be reckoned with in the sporting industry.
5Kai Greene
Always looking to embrace different facets of his creative personality, Kai Greene has become one of the rare crossover successes in the bodybuilding world. Having joined the RedCon1 brand and collaborated with a who’s who in the fitness and bodybuilding space, Kai Greene has proved as popular as ever. If his millions of followers weren’t proof enough, his foray into different forms of entertainment showcases just how in demand Greene is. With his upcoming documentary, Kai, the world will learn everything about the talented bodybuilder’s life.
4Jay Cutler
Still training hard and remaining relevant in the bodybuilding community, Jay Cutler has constantly reinvented himself since retiring from the stage. His Cutler Nutrition and TRIFECTA nutrition brands have exploded in recognition and popularity. His podcast has also become a great source of information for avid fans and Cutler’s ability to pick winners has made his one of the most important voices in bodybuilding today.
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, still standing tall as the most well known bodybuilding league in the sport, to brand 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
A fixture in the bodybuilding scene and its most popular figure to date, Arnold Schwarzenegger continues to sit atop the industry as revered royalty. Commanding a ton of respect in the realm of bodybuilding, Schwarzenegger still manages to put on one of the best and most important shows of the year, the annual Arnold Classic. No matter the industry, from bodybuilding to movies, Schwarzenegger has always dominated whatever space he’s entered making him the most influential fitness figure of all-time.
1Chris Bumstead
The three-time Classic Physique Olympia champion, Chris Bumstead has proven himself to be one of the most popular figures in bodybuilding. Sporting a powerful and aesthetic physique unmatched by his peers, Bumstead has become very influential in the industry. After once again dominating the field at the 2021 Olympia, Bumstead further cemented his legacy as the quintessential Classic Physique champion. With three victories under his belt, Bumstead is looking to further his legacy as champion and who knows, perhaps we could one day see him moving up to take on the Men’s Open division.
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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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