Tag: Videos
Blessing Awodibu Details 7,000-Calorie Diet, Talks Next Show & Life at 300-Lbs+
Blessing Awodibu’s strength is at an all-time high as he dials in preparations for his next outing. In a recent Muscular Development interview, Awodibu discussed an array of topics including his 7,000-calorie diet, bulking to 300 pounds, his competition plans, and his training strategy. In addition, he revealed his plans to compete at the 2023 Chicago Pro, Texas Pro, and Tampa Pro.
“I’m proud of my symmetry. I think I am pretty balanced. People get to talk about my legs when I’m off,” added Awodibu. “If I could buy leg muscles right now I’d fuc**ng buy it. I need more of everything.”
Men’s Bodybuilding star Awodibu is on a quest for redemption this year. He performed exceptionally well in 2022 under the guidance of his former coach, George Farah. Awodibu started off his season with a pair of victories at the Indy Pro and New York Pro. With momentum and a Mr. Olympia invitation, he pushed himself at the biggest event of the year.
The 2022 Mr. Olympia show was brimming with talent and new contenders such as Michal Krizo and Andrew Jacked emerged. Admittedly, Awodibu missed the mark and found himself outside of the top 15. Fans had hoped to see him perform in Ohio at the Arnold Classic, but he withdrew his name from the roster shortly after the list went public.
Blessing Awodibu / Instagram
Before starting his campaign for Olympia again, Awodibu shocked fans with the heaviest off-season physique update of his career. While he opted not to disclose his exact weight, it’s now evident that ‘The Boogieman’ was sporting a physique exceeding 300 pounds.
Blessing Awodibu Lays Out Contest Plans and 2023 Off-Season Strategy
Blessing Awodibu plans to make a splash in a few months by competing in three shows: the 2023 Chicago Pro, Texas Pro, and Tampa Pro. With that in mind, fans can expect to see him back on stage in less than two months from July 21-22 for the Chicago Pro.
“Those are not small shows [Chicago Pro, Tampa Pro, and Texas Pro],” said Awodibu. “I’m sure he’s [Hunter Labrada] has a chip on his shoulder. He’s got a lot to prove due to his Olympia. I’m sure he wasn’t happy with that as well. He’s got a lot to prove to the fans. I’m pumped to be able to stand next to him, especially in Tampa.”
These contests appear to be serving as popular destinations for Open talent this year. In 2022, Andrew won the Texas Pro. Jacked announced he would defend his title a few months ago. Hunter Labrada, who finished seventh at Mr. Olympia last December, has also decided to compete in Tampa and Texas.
According to Awodibu, this is the strongest he’s ever felt. He shared that he’s tipping the scale at over 300 pounds but feels healthy. In addition, he said he’s using fewer ‘super supplements’ than in past preps.
“We got up to about 301, honestly, that was rough man. I think a lot had to do with that because it was my very first time being that heavy you know. My joints hurt. My knee hurts. My performance sucked. Honestly. Lower back problems, this off-season, that’s not even a question. I feel fresh. It feels good. I’m not going to say I’m 100% I’m fuc**ng overweight, so you always going to get that but overall, my performance is good, it’s the strongest I’ve ever felt. I feel really healthy.”
“Exactly [I’m using less super supplements. This is one of the things… man, I’ve been so blessed, bro. I’m always grateful for all my mistakes and all my ups and downs because they make me better. YOu learn from these things. People don’t realize I’m still fresh in the game. This is my third year competing as a pro.”
Awodibu pointed to flatness as one of his biggest obstacles this year. As far as leg training is concerned, Awodibu said he’s eliminated heavy movements. He added that he’s training four times a week.
“I had a problem being flat on stage. Getting in shape is not a problem for me but holding that fullness, that roundness, and not being flat on stage, that is always my problem. Even when we won in Indy and New York, that was the flatter side of me.”
“I’m training three to four times a week. I’m two days on, two days off. One day on, one day off. So, those rest periods for me, they are absolutely key. When I’m in the gym everything is supersetting. Especially for my legs. We got away from all that heavy heavy heavy – that doesn’t work for me. I don’t have the body for it. I don’t have the knee.”
“I’ve brought my physique to another level. I mean, if you look at me now, the type of fullness and roundness I’m holding right now… I’ve never seen it before. It really excites me. I cannot wait to really showcase all this on stage.”
Awodibu Breaks Down 7,000-Calorie 2023 Off-Season Diet of 6 Meals
To maintain a physique of over 300 pounds, Awodibu is eating six meals a day with a 7,000-calorie intake.
“Right now we’re probably doing 6-7,000 calories. Meal one, we’ll start with 120 grams of oats, 100 grams of blueberry, and one banana. Two scoops of MuscleTech. Then we do three slices of Ezekiel bread laced with fuc*ing jam. Then, 200 grams of steak, two whole eggs, and egg whites.”
“Meal two, 350 grams of rice with 280 grams of salmon,” Awodibu added. “Post workout meal, another 400 grams of purple potato 280 grams of salmon, then after that, four would be 300 grams of rice, about 250 grams of steak. Then, I would have another 300 grams of rice, either chicken or I tend to switch it up sometimes shrimp. The last meal would be Greek yogurts, 300 grams, and two scoops of whey. Three slices of Ezekiel bread with peanut butter.”
While away from the stage, Awodibu has maintained a steady training schedule. His eccentric personality was on full display when he joined hands with fitness model Bakhar Nabieva for a quad-focused leg day workout.
With a lot to prove in 2023, Blessing Awodibu is attacking his progress from all angles to produce a more complete physique. Time will tell how he fares against other Men’s Open contenders at the 2023 Chicago Pro in late July.
You can watch the full video from Muscular Development below:
RELATED: Blessing Awodibu Escapes Serious Injury, Ready to Start The Growing Season
Published: 5 June, 2023 | 3:59 PM EDT
Flex Wheeler Reveals 1993 Cycle, Says ‘People Didn’t Take Large Amounts Back Then’
Flex Wheeler, a 1990s bodybuilding icon, still represents the sport with class today. In a recent The Menace Podcast with Dennis James, Wheeler laid out his 1993 steroid cycle and discussed whether or not he used diuretics and growth hormones throughout his career.
During a tenure lasting over 20 years, Wheeler traveled the world as a bodybuilder and showcased a remarkable physique with round muscle bellies and superb conditioning. He paved the way for future pros by sharing the stage with greats such as eight-time Mr. Olympia Ronnie Coleman, Chris Cormier, and Kevin Levrone. Before calling it a career, Wheeler won four Arnold Classic titles and placed in the top two at Mr. Olympia three times.
Wheeler would face adversity after his retirement, however. He struggled from a series of health scares and injuries, which often saw him stuck inside a hospital. In 2019, tragedy struck as a medical emergency resulted in the amputation of his leg. While Flex persevered following the surgery, the 57-year-old was candid about his deteriorating health recently.
Last year, Wheeler told Dennis James that his transplanted kidneys from 2003 were starting to show signs of failure. Despite the hardship, Wheeler has remained busy. He recently accepted an Arnold Classic Lifetime Achievement Award in March. Now he’s back to discuss one of his first-ever cycles with Dennis James and company.
Flex Wheeler Talks 1993 Cycle, Diuretics – Says He Didn’t Know He Was Taking “5:1 Anabolics vs Androgens”
As far as contest prep was concerned, Wheeler said he introduced two diuretics: Aldactone and Dyazide on the Wednesday before a respective event.
“Back then I did my same regimen, it was 100 milligrams a day of Dactone, including the 25 milligrams of Diazide that was in there. What is that, 150 milligrams. Just the last three days [before a show] from Wednesday.”
Wheeler said his 1993 cycle consisted of Deca, Winstrol IV and tablet, Anavar, and testosterone propionate.
“Charles never knew more than I did about diuretics and dieting. He never wrote a cycle. He never did any of that for me,” added Wheeler. I have it all written down. Even after I retired, I had these books that I use to always write my whole cycle down. Somebody threatened to break into my house and steal it.
1993, if I can remember correctly, 800 milligrams of deca a week, 600 milligrams of Winstrol, I think 100 milligrams a day of Winstrol tab,” Wheeler said. “I think it was something like 30 milligrams of Anavar. I think back then, my go-to was like testosterone propionate. That was pretty much it.”
“Me and him were like super close, he was super cool, he was always like, ‘Damn Flex, why you always running this candy?’ You’re not running androgens you’re only running anabolics. You’re like 5:1 with anabolics versus androgens. I didn’t understand. I didn’t know.”
Again, Wheeler mentioned he used Lasix and Aldactone but sometimes switched to Aldactazide to dry out his physique.
“What did I take, nothing. It’s just my body was fighting against me. Like I said, man, I won’t say the amounts of diuretics and Lasix I took in 1998 and 1999 but I still couldn’t achieve a good condition,” added Wheeler. “It wasn’t diuretics again. My body and kidneys were failing. I think I took, I can’t even remember the amount.
My go-to, and that was a big mistake back then even when the diet diuretics started changing, I always stayed to what I knew. I always took out Aldactone and then I switched over to Aldactazide. That was the go-to back then. I didn’t know. Remember, back then, diuretics ripped water from you. You would just take a little bit and be shredded.”
Even though Flex Wheeler thought he was taking an excessive amount of GH, he specified that it was less than what bodybuilders use today.
“GH, you know how much GH I was taking? I thought I was crazy, one IU every other day,” said Wheeler. “Listen, back then, people didn’t take large amounts and if they did, they didn’t tell us. I know one pro bodybuilder’s name, he had his own clothing line. That was the first I ever heard of somebody taking 10 IUs a day. If you don’t believe me, call up Paul Dillett.”
Wheeler Talks ‘Reward Meals’ Instead of Cheat Meals & Eating French Fries During Prep
Initially, Wheeler said his diet for bodybuilding in 1993 was mainly eating out at Sizzler or Firehouse. He added that he was able to eat French fries during prep until eventually, his body wouldn’t allow him to ‘get away with it.’
“I’ve talked about worse, right? Yeah 1993, I don’t think I cheated in ’93. You got to understand my diet. Even in 1993, my breakfast was eating at Firehouse, right? Then, my next five meals were eating at Sizzler. Maybe [cheeseburgers in 1997] I was used to eating French fries, so I ate French fries all the way up till I left for the Arnold Classic, French fries, and ketchup.
My point is, now we understand that we need a little more fat. The second thing is I was always in such good shape right, now, right, back then we called it cheating but no, it’s called reward food,” Flex Wheeler said.
“I figured if I could get away with it and it made me look better, then I really didn’t look at it bad. The truth is, the truth is, only until about 1998, I think my was my kidneys were really started failing and I didn’t know what was going on. I couldn’t get away with it anymore. And it wasn’t that, it was the diuretics.”
While battling on stage, many saw Wheeler winning Mr. Olympia as a foregone conclusion. Though, he never was able to match the sheer size of Ronnie Coleman. Since then, Wheeler has made it a point to warn competitors of today not to chase size unnecessarily.
Wheeler was a consummate professional. Despite his competitive nature, he was open to helping others and actually introduced Coleman to his long-time coach Chad Nicholls. To this day, Ronnie has said had it not been for Flex Wheeler, he never would have won his first Mr. Olympia competition.
Bodybuilding cycles have become a very popular subject in the fitness community as of late. Just a few weeks ago, Arnold Schwarzenegger sat down to discuss the two-compound steroid cycle that he used during his Mr. Olympia reign. While some found it surprising, Schwarzenegger shared that he only used deca (Nandrolone decanoate) and testosterone.
Wheeler’s insight surrounding steroids makes for some interesting conversations. Given his expertise, he continues to serve as a valuable resource for upcoming talent in the IFBB Pro League.
RELATED: Flex Wheeler Recaps 2023 Arnold Classic, Says Samson Dauda Exposed Everyone’s Weaknesses
Check out the full video from the Muscle and Fitness YouTube channel below:
Published: 5 June, 2023 | 11:32 AM EDT
Bodybuilder Andrew Jacked Teams Up With Vlad Suhoruchko For A Rigorous Arm Workout
Andrew Jacked recently partnered with rising Men’s Open division bodybuilder Vlad Suhoruchko for an intense arms workout as he prepares to defend his title at the 2023 Texas Pro.
Chinedu Andrew Obiekea, also known as Andrew Jacked, is a Nigerian professional bodybuilder who shot to fame in 2022 due to his muscular physique, perfect V-taper, and excellent proportions. After earning his IFBB Pro card with a dominant win at the 2022 Arnold Classic Amateur, Jacked secured a direct qualification to the 2022 Olympia with a dominating victory at the 2022 Texas Pro. He added another feather to his cap with the 2022 Arnold Classic UK win before Olympia.
Jacked surged into the top ten and secured an eighth-place finish in his maiden Olympia appearance. What made the performance more impressive was the fact that Jacked was on the verge of pulling out of the event due to an illness and still managed to produce a stellar performance.
He made a quick turnaround and competed at the 2023 Arnold Classic next, finishing third. Andrew will return to the stage at the 2023 Texas Pro in hopes of registering his second consecutive victory at the Olympia qualifier. In his recent physique updates, the 38-year-old looks primed to dominate the stage once again.
Jacked joined Ukrainian IFBB Pro bodybuilder Suhoruchko for an arms workout. Vlad earned his IFBB Pro card with a win at the 2019 Dennis James Classic. He has competed at several Pro shows since and achieved his first victory at the 2022 IFBB Yamamoto Pro Show. He is a hot prospect and is perceived as a future top contender in the IFBB Pro League.
Andrew Jacked and Vlad Suhoruchko go through an arm workout
Jacked visited Suhoruchko for the training session and followed the latter’s lead for this session. The duo trained arms together, and the video of this training session was posted on Suhoruchko’s YouTube channel. So let’s go over this training session and see how the big men fired up their massive arms.
Biceps
Machine Preacher Curl
Preacher curls are arguably the best biceps isolation exercise. Since the triceps are firmly pressed against the pad and the shoulder is neatly placed on the edge of the pad, none of these muscles can take over the movement. As a result, the biceps get optimal stimulation. Also, the setup eliminates the possibility of using momentum. (1)
Jacked and Suhoruchko started the training session with preacher curls on a selectorized machine. They performed the exercise unilaterally using slow and controlled movements to build the mind-muscle connection.
EZ Bar Curl
The bodybuilder duo next took to the EZ bar curl to work the biceps. The EZ bar has a zig-zagged shape that enables an angled grip. Unlike a straight barbell, the EZ bar can be a lot easier for the shoulders, wrists, and elbows as it promotes a more natural angle of grip and movement. (2)
Jacked and Suhoruchko cranked out a few sets of EZ Bar curls next to add more stimulus to the biceps brachii muscles and jumped into another machine exercise.
Machine Biceps Curl on Matrix Curl Machine
Seated biceps curls eliminate the role of stabilizing muscles, and the lifter can focus a great deal on the biceps alone. Additionally, various machines add to the benefits of this variation as well. Andrew and Vlad took to the seated biceps curls on the Matrix curls machine next.
This machine works the biceps from a stretched position. Additionally, the machine has a pad to press the triceps against so that the biceps are forced to do the work, similar to the preacher curls.
The training partners pushed through some solid sets of unilateral biceps curls on the machine before moving on to a free weight exercise next.
Dumbbell Zottman Curl
While most of us want big biceps and triceps, we often ignore the forearms. However, it is possible to train the biceps and forearms together. Enter Zottman curls. Although it is primarily a biceps exercise, it helps improve forearms and grip strength, and muscles. (3)
Jacked and Suhoruchko pushed through a few sets of the Zottman curls and wrapped up the biceps exercises.
Triceps
Incline Cable Triceps Pushdown
This is an effective isolation exercise to work all three triceps heads. Additionally, it is excellent for getting a deep stretch in the muscle to stimulate growth. However, it is essential to use moderate weights to avoid excessive stress on the elbow joint. (4)
The bodybuilder duo carefully did some sets of the exercise to work the triceps and took to the next lift.
Machine Overhead Triceps Extension
The overhead triceps extension is a hypertrophy-inducing exercise that activates all three triceps heads. Additionally, studies show overhead triceps extensions induce nearly 40% more muscle growth than triceps pushdowns. (5)
Andrew and Vlad pushed through some heavy sets of the movement on a plate-loaded machine and took to the next exercise.
Reverse-Grip Cable Triceps Pushdown
Cable triceps pushdowns are a great exercise to train the triceps in totality, irrespective of the grip and other factors. However, using the reverse grip helps emphasize more on the outer triceps head. The training partners cranked out a few sets of this exercise and followed on to the day’s final exercise.
Triceps Dip Machine
Triceps dip is one of the most effective compound exercises to build muscle and strength. Jacked and Suhoruchko performed the machine press variation of this exercise to wrap up the show. The dip press machine allows you to reduce as well as increase the resistance beyond your body weight. This helps people at all fitness levels to utilize this equipment to achieve their goals.
The duo annihilated a few sets of triceps machine dip presses and called it a day in the gym.
Overall, the workout included:
Biceps Exercises
Triceps Exercises
Jacked is one of the rising contenders in the Men’s Open division. Experts predict he can make a splash at the 2023 Olympia if he builds his legs up more. The Nigerian is doing the necessary work to achieve the desired results.
You can watch the full workout video here, courtesy of Vlad Suhoruchko’s YouTube channel:
References:
Preacher Curls for Biceps: The Good, the Bad and The Alternatives (Author – Taylor Stranaghan, BHK)
Four Benefits of Training With an EZ Curl Bar (Author – Olivier Poirier-Leroy, NASM-CPT)
Try The Zottman Curls To Grow Your Forearms And Build Stronger Arms (Author – Mike Dewar)
Incline Cable Triceps Extensions (Author – Dr. Malik)
Triceps Brachii Hypertrophy is Substantially Greater After Elbow Extensions Training Performed In The Overhead Versus Neutral Arm Position [Authors – Sumiaki Maeo, Yuhang Wu, Meng Huang, Hikaru Sakurai, Yuki Kusagawa, Takashi Sugiyama, Tadao Isaka (Affiliation – Faculty of Sport and Health Science, RItsumeikan University, Kusatsu, Japan), Hiroaki Kanehisa (Affiliation – National Institute of Fitness and Sports in Kanoya, Kanoya, Japan)]
Published: 5 June, 2023 | 9:11 AM EDT
Flex Lewis Reveals His Workout, Diet & Recovery Secrets
Legendary bodybuilder Flex Lewis dominated the IFBB Pro League Men’s 212 division with his insanely jacked arm muscle development. Although he moved on from professional competition years ago, he remains connected with the community as a respected figure. In a recent interview with Escaped Fitness, Lewis revealed the secrets to his workout plan, diet, and recovery process.
Flex Lewis grew up with a passion for sports playing rugby in his teenage years. He got inspired to start bodybuilding after coming across Golden Era bodybuilder Tom Platz and the iconic Arnold Schwarzenegger. He emerged as a budding prospect after taking home the top prize in his debut show at the 2003 Jr. Mr. Wales. After the division’s weight limit got increased by 10 pounds, Lewis secured his maiden 212 Mr. Olympia title in 2012. He proved to be a commanding victor as he racked up seven wins in a row. He decided to move on after a final win at the 2018 Mr. Olympia.
Following a decorated career, Lewis continued to train hard in the gym. He embarked on a mission to downsize his enormous build and live a healthier lifestyle. In Nov. 2022, he teamed up with rising Men’s Open sensation Andrew Jacked for a brutal quads workout. The experienced Welsh mentored Jacked again in an upper body training session a week later in prep for the 2022 Mr. Olympia.
Earlier this year, Flex left the fans stunned with an impressive physique update boasting his jacked frame. He laid out the new diet and training plan he utilized to pack on a few pounds after dropping down by around 60 pounds in body weight.
Flex Lewis / Instagram
Considering the impressive package Lewis maintained, there has been speculation about a potential comeback. While he appeared to be content on the sidelines, Lewis revealed he could return on stage if he was offered a seven-figure payday two months ago.
Flex Lewis provided fans with three of his best movements for muscle growth targeting triceps last month. Then, he joined forces with iconic Strongman Eddie Hall for a sleeve-busting arms workout.
Flex Lewis reveals training secrets
In a recent YouTube video, Flex Lewis shared the keys to his training philosophy. Having trained under coach Neil ‘Yoda’ Hill, Lewis utilized Hill’s Y3T training or Yoda-3 Training. He explained the ins and outs of the training plan.
“It’s Neill’s. It’s Y3T so you order three training,” said Lewis. “It’s basically three different weeks; week one, two, and three. Week one is heavy compound lower reps. Week two is kind of like a hybrid of the third week, rep ranges on the second week goes up a little bit higher. On the third week, it kinda answers number two, is high reps, drop sets, super sets so every single week you get a different stimulus and then you repeat it all over again. That’s something Neill was doing way before it became something and I was like Neill, why isn’t this got a name? I just made a name for it and called it three weeks here, your name’s Yoda, Y3T. He was like I like that. That was it.
“We’ve been doing it since I was 19 so it’s nothing that was created, this was something that was just put a name to.”
Being a high-volume athlete, Lewis shared the number of sets he likes to perform in training and the part he enjoys working out the most.
“I do between 20 and 24 sets per body part. Workouts are an hour to an hour and a half. I would train one body part per day. Arms would be combined or separated. My last training system was Sunday legs, Monday morning hamstrings, a couple hours later chest and back. I’d have two days off a week, Wednesday was one and then on Thursday I’d do shoulders, Friday arms, Saturday off.”
“My weakest one is chest. It’s the most stubborn body part I’ve suffered with my whole career and my favorite part to train.”
Lewis opens up on his current diet
Flex Lewis further gave fans a look into his current diet plans, consisting of low carbs and clean sources of nutrition.
“I get up in the morning around 4:30, do my cardio, I won’t eat my first meal until about nine and that first meal is eggs, bacon, and olive oil. I don’t have any carbs. If I have carbs, I feel by the time I get to the gym and I stack in on calls and trying to do things, I feel foggy like I’m mentally not there. I don’t get that way if I don’t eat carbs. Normally my second carb meal is around about 12 o’clock. I’ll eat that a couple hours later. I got a little over a cup with some steak and some asparagus.
“I then have three or fours hours later some salmon. I have a wide diverse of meats, different protein sources, and then before bed I have the same meal as what I woke up on. I try not to go to bed with carbs. I sleep a lot better, I’m 60 pounds lighter than I was so that helps too.”
“But the diet elements of it I eat very clean. The bacon is what it is but it’s very lean cut. I use fats in a lot of my meals like good fats. I’m a big believer in that too for brain function and with the weekends, I have whatever I want. Not all throughout the weekends. I still have structure, same breakfast, and still go to bed with the same meal.”
He recommended creatine as a non-negotiable supplement for any athlete.
“I think creatine has a big part in any athlete’s gym bag. They should be supplementing creatine. In my peak, I was probably taking about 10-15g a day predominantly around my workout.”
Flex Lewis talks recovery & announces body transformation challenge
Lewis declared his ambitions to level up his fitness for his upcoming 40th birthday.
“I’m going to be doing a ‘Fit for 40,’ not the theme I’m going to be calling it but I’m turning 40 in November so I want to be in the best shape I can be physically, mentally, and cardiovascularly than I’ve ever been. We start that in June and there’s going to be a periodic following of sorts documenting different things.
“A little bit of bodybuilding training, strongman training, and UFC guys, a couple of things mixed in and I think it’d be just a good journey to follow.”
He stressed the importance of recovery and offered some techniques he used to boost healing.
“Recovery was something that I really started putting more and more into for the Olympia preps. I got two torn shoulders, micro tears in different parts of the body. I was having Physical Therapy five times a week.
“Recovery for me, I was in excruciating pain. I couldn’t sleep at night. Then I started looking into different things. I invested into a bed one of these systematic beds. I also sleep to this day, I bought a pregnancy pillow, the big U, so I sleep in this pillow on my back.”
“Right now, I’ve got things like cold plunge in my house, a sauna that’s on the way.”
Flex Lewis retired at the top. He believes he could have become the first two-division champion in bodybuilding had he moved up to the Men’s Open class as a 212 Olympia king. He opened up on his steroid use and revealed how he still gets people trying to convince him to return last month. Then, he collaborated with reigning four-time Classic Physique Olympia winner Chris Bumstead for a challenging back workout.
Based on Lewis’ track record, his latest offering will certainly add clarity and value to fitness enthusiasts who want to improve their performance in the gym.
You can watch the full video below.
Published: 4 June, 2023 | 3:10 PM EDT
Lee Priest Wants ‘Olympia-Themed’ Superhero Showdown with Kai Greene: ‘Come Back for an Encore’
Australian bodybuilding veteran Lee Priest has an undying passion for fitness and working out that he has kept up even in his later years. Since stepping away from professional competition years ago, he has become a revered analyst in the game. In a recent episode of Iron Rage, Priest called for an Olympia-themed superhero showdown with Kai Greene at an upcoming bodybuilding show.
Lee Priest rose to prominence for his insane arm muscle development along with his impressive muscle definition and conditioning as an IFBB Pro League’s Men’s Open contender in the 90s and early 2000s. He dominated the regional circuit before making his way to internationally renowned shows like the Arnold Classic.
Priest secured a qualification to the Mr. Olympia contest in 1997 and place sixth in his first outing under the banner. While he didn’t lay claim to the Sandow trophy, he was one of the most consistent athletes with six Mr. Olympia appearances. He took to the sidelines after a final showing at the 2013 NABBA Mr. Universe, where he dominated the competition to score gold.
With the anticipated return of the 2023 Masters Olympia set for August, Priest expressed his interest in potentially competing at the show. However, he would not be able to do so due to the atrophy in his chest and compromised arms. Earlier this year, he revealed the difference would be significant if he leaned out to step one stage.
The 50-year-old laid out some crucial bicep-focused tips on the preacher curl to maximize pump three months ago. He explained the reasons for using different rep ranges, equipment, and grip variations while offering his take on developing the bicep peak.
Two months ago, Lee Priest criticized the eligibility criteria for the 2023 Masters Olympia. He took issue with the show allowing athletes above age 40 and suggested raising the bar to 50 along with the condition they did not compete for at least two to three years.
Lee Priest / Instagram
American bodybuilder Kai Greene is regarded as one of the best Men’s Open contenders of all time to have never won Mr. Olympia. He displayed an impeccable blend of freakish muscle mass, size, and definition. He separated himself from the pack with his memorable posing routines.
Greene came close to winning the Mr. Olympia contest multiple times but kept falling short of legendary bodybuilder Phil Heath. He developed a fierce rivalry with the seven-time champion who kept knocking him down to second place from 2012 to 2014. After taking three silvers, Greene did not return to the Mr. Olympia stage again and stepped away with three Arnold Classic titles under his belt.
Greene teamed up with budding Men’s Open competitor Blessing Awodibu for a grueling arm workout in Jul. 2022. The duo forged a strong partnership as they regrouped for another brutal shoulder workout six weeks out from the 2022 Mr. Olympia. The veteran helped solidify Blessing’s prep for the show with a final hamstring and back training session where he stressed the importance of building neurological awareness.
Three months ago, Greene reflected on his career competing as a natural athlete for over 15 years. He encouraged his followers to avoid steroids and revealed he consumes anywhere between 2,500 and 6,000 calories daily. Then, he showered praises on his former rival Heath, and left the door open for a comeback. He followed up by showing off his massive delts in a workout update two months ago.
Related: 5 Superhero Workout and Diet Programs: From Hulk to Ant-Man
Lee Priest wants an Olympia-theme superhero showdown with Kai Greene
In a recent YouTube video, Lee Priest called for an Olympia-theme showdown with Kai Greene where they’d portray superheroes and villains for an entertaining skit.
Priest donned the prosthetic arm worn by Bucky(the Winter Soldier) in the Marvel Cinematic Universe before suggesting the idea he plays a superhero against Greene’s villain.
“I’m getting ready, I can cover the bad arm [with the prosthetic arm]. I can come back for an encore,” said Priest. “We could do like a skit. Kai could be a villain. I could be Superman. It would be great. Kai could make a really good Venom character or something or Predator.
“I could do like the Bucky and then do something else but at the end the big Superman muscle suit.”
Dave Palumbo responded, “I’d like you to reenact the scene where Superman’s dead and then he comes back from the dead. I think that would be better if you could do that.”
“Can hit me on stage like a big bright light and then the cables raise me up off the stage. That would be amazing,” Priest said. “Then the music changes, the lightning flashes, and Kai comes out as the evil villain.
“They’re going to have a painted backdrop of Metropolis or something or just project Metropolis and then have scaffolding there because remember Kai did that routine once where he started climbing the scaffolding. He could be up on the scaffolding Venom hanging down.”
Lee Priest would like to incorporate the play into a bodybuilding show to entertain the fans.
Palumbo said, “I mean really you’re Superman. What about would you do Spider-Man or whatever? I would like to see actually I’d like to see Kai as octo. He gets in all those positions and yeah that would be Dr. Octavius versus Spider-Man. You could be Spider-Man.”
“Or the Punisher. The villains and the heroes together.”
“The whole show’s just going to be Lee and Kai. It’s Lee and Kai variety hour. It would be entertaining like Lee and Kai going to do three or four different skits throughout the show but they’re well-choreographed and all that sort of stuff. It would be entertaining. But then you could use some of the other bodybuilders too, just people on the stage that you’re working around like general public type thing.”
Palumbo: “It’d be nice to have an Olympia theme.”
“I think it would be good too because superheroes these days people associate whatever they are with the muscular characters in superheroes and that X-Men type things and stuff.”
Lee Priest detailed the difference in his diet and training routine from the time he was in his 20s to now that he’s his 50s last month. While a lot did not change, he modified his training due to injuries and believes burning body fat might have got more difficult.
Last week, Priest suggested doing a Golden Era seminar with bodybuilding legend Jay Cutler and facing the four-time Mr. Olympia in a guest-posing appearance after the conclusion of the 2023 Masters Olympia.
Priest’s idea of bringing Greene back to the stage in such an entertaining fashion would surely be a treat for the fans to enjoy. However, it remains to be seen whether it comes to fruition.
You can watch the full video below.
Published: 4 June, 2023 | 12:39 PM EDT
Kali Muscle Claims to Eat 1 Meal a Day: ‘Everything We Learned is Fake’
Internet sensation Kali Muscle, real name Chuck Kirkendall, is on a mission to push back against the rampant use of steroids. After suffering a series of health challenges, he revamped his training and diet regimen to live a healthier life. In a recent Escaped Fitness interview, Muscle claimed he only eats one meal a day and argued against consuming too much food and bulking up.
Kali Muscle first rose to prominence for his massive build and brash personality online. Having grown up in challenging circumstances, Kali started working out as a teenager to channel his energy. He also grew up playing several different sports. Eventually, Kali found himself in trouble and got locked up in his college days but didn’t let the setback dictate his life.
Kali continued to train passionately behind bars with whatever equipment was available to him and managed to pack on the pounds before getting released in 2010. He had hopes of pursuing a career in bodybuilding and exploring the world of entertainment. He won the Mr. California contest in 2012 along with numerous appearances in music videos and more, which inspired fans given his respective Cinderella story.
In Jan. 2021, Kali joined forces with fellow social media influencer Big Boy for an intense training session at Gold’s Gym in Venice Beach, considered to be one of the Meccas of bodybuilding. The fitness stars progressed through the workout and crushed a massive set of 330-pound dumbbells made of solid gold. They later found themselves in an argument with the manager and were asked to leave the gym. Things didn’t end there as Kali nearly got into a fight outside the facility.
Kali Muscle / Instagram
Kali Muscle suffered a heart attack after his left artery was said to be 100% clogged in 2021. He was hospitalized but fortunately recovered. He used the experience to change his daily routine and started cleaning up his diet for longevity. A week later, Muscle issued a stark warning to bodybuilders to not ignore the warning signs their bodies might give them. He also blamed the health scare on plaque build-up in the artery from years of eating junk food and taking gear.
The 48-year-old laid out the dangers of bodybuilding in another cautionary message in April 2022. He admitted he used to avoid blood tests and health checkups due to a fear of finding out an issue. Then, he labeled bodybuilding as the unhealthiest sport because Open athletes pursue bigger physiques.
Kali Muscle revealed how he started using gear with an off-season stack he utilized during his days of competing on stage in May 2022. While he’s not sure if steroids were the sole reason for his heart attack, he’s convinced they certainly played a role in exacerbating the condition.
Last August, Kali encouraged people to avoid competing in bodybuilding shows. He argued against bodybuilders appearing to be healthy. Then went as far as to label the competitors ‘test dummies’ that are jeopardizing their health in the sport.
Kali regretted ever getting into competitive bodybuilding after a health checkup last October. He bashed rising Men’s Open sensation Andrew Jacked and former Arnold Classic champ Nick Walker for risking their health to improve their physiques.
Kali Muscle claims to eat 1 meal a day, pushes back against bulking
In a recent YouTube video, Kali Muscle shared his thoughts on consuming too much food and bulking up. He argued against the lessons he learned about nutrition while competing.
“Everything we learned to me is fake,” said Kali. “We used to laugh at people who take supplements in prison. We ate tuna, top ramen, mackerel, and peanut butter, that’s what did it though all those bad carbs.
“It’s big now. Everybody’s starting to wake up. I’m starting to see on social media what we’ve been told we need we don’t like six meals a day, four or three a day. I’ve been on this regimen since I had my heart attack. I’m down to 195 and I love it. Crazy shredded and don’t have to depend on food.”
“We’re just caught up in this culture that bigger is better. No. Let’s go look at some people that’s 80, 90, or 100 years old. They not fat, over muscular or buff.”
Kali claims to eat 1 meal a day
Kali claimed he consumes one meal a day or two at most while avoiding supplements.
“One meal a day, two max. I’m scared of all [supplements]. I’m scared of ingesting anything.”
In Nov. 2022, Kali Muscle opened up about his reasons for retiring from bodybuilding. He believes he could’ve ended up dead if he would’ve taken the steroids recommended to him by top coaches. He stressed the need for competitors to prioritize their health instead of focusing on pleasing judges.
The outspoken fitness influencer reinforced one of his most important messages in the latest offering and will help fans reconsider their goals. In addition, his 1-meal diet plan certainly raises some eyebrows as well.
RELATED: Kali Muscle: Here Is Why I Lost All My Muscle Size
You can watch the full video below.
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Published: 3 June, 2023 | 1:27 PM EDT
Bob Cicherillo Calls Out Salty Fans Over Contest Results: “Leave Your Feelings at the Door!”
Bob Cicherillo is setting his sights on angry fans who disagree with judges and contest results. In a recent Voice of Bodybuilding podcast, Cicherillo laid out why the judging process is fair and accurate despite fans continually taking issue with scorecards.
Judging in bodybuilding took center stage following last December’s Mr. Olympia competition. The event served as a major shake-up for the Open class as Mamdouh ‘Big Ramy’ Elssbiay lost his title to Iran’s Hadi Choopan. The former two-time champion dropped down to fifth whereas Derek Lunsford and Nick Walker took second and third.
Immediately after the results, fans and some bodybuilding veterans criticized the judging process. Retired pro Zack Khan was among them. He believes Ramy wasn’t given a fair shot on stage in Las Vegas because the 38-year-old was sidelined for most of prejudging.
Months later, competitors gathered in Ohio for the Arnold Classic. Nick Walker entered the contest on short notice as the overwhelming favorite but lost to Samson Dauda. Once again, fans and the bodybuilding community were upset by the results.
While Chris Aceto and Jay Cutler thought Walker could have won, Cicherillo disagrees. He’s taken to multiple podcasts and interviews to explain the judging process. Even though Walker brought the best conditioning of the show, Cicherillo stressed that Dauda presented the best combination of symmetry, balance, shape, proportions, and stage presentation.
Bob Cicherillo Sounds Off On Fans Angry Over Contest Results: ‘The Judges Decide the 1st Call Out’
Cicherillo said his latest video was inspired by fans who called out the 2023 New York Pro scorecards.
“He [Brent Swanson] didn’t end up doing that well in terms of placings, he ended up in ninth place. But this isn’t about where he placed okay, it’s about a post that I saw which inspired me to want to put out on this edition of the Voice of Bodybuilding. In a nutshell, Brent’s got a couple of fans/clients I guess that do personal training from the description. We’ll get to that in a second. They put out a big long lengthy post about after show about how disappointed they were.”
Again, Cicherillo highlighted that a contest is won by a combination of factors, not just conditioning.
“Number two: he was the most shredded guy on stage, you can see it right there. What does that mean? There’s so many components to a bodybuilding show. We’ve been over this folks, over and over and over. The most shredded guy on stage… listen, that’s fantastic. If we were in the Mr. shredded competition, well he might have won the thing.
But there’s size shape, proportion, symmetry, muscularity, presentation, and conditioning, so if that was all he had then obviously, what, you’re [the fans] are 1 for 6? That’s not really helping your cause. That’s strike two,” Bob Cicherillo explained.
According to Bob, only judges can dictate who earned a spot in the first call-out.
“Earned a first call out, we believe he earned a first call out. No, no, you earn a first call out with your physique. You don’t earn a first call out because of these other accolades or because you believe he worked very hard or any of those things. The judges dictate who earns a first call out, I don’t care who you are.
If you’re a former champ, if you’re a former Olympian, I’d say that consideration only goes so far as to what you’re quote entitled to. You’re entitled to step on that stage, alright, in front of a jury of your peers, we call them judges and get compared to the guys next to you. Now, it’s all about comparisons. I don’t care if you won six Olympias, if you’re not at that level at that point if you blew your conditioning and you just weren’t in shape, you don’t earn anything. You earn it by showing up and being in contention with the other guys.”
Cicherillo highlighted that the point of the judging panel is to score shows in an impartial manner. He added that fans shouldn’t bash events because their friends were unable to win.
“You have to take these things out of consideration. When you’re objectively talking about a physique competition because the underlying [problem] here are that he was given a raw deal and that he deserved a top five call out, ‘He should have been in the first call out.’ Our hearts were broken when he wasn’t in that top-five call out and he deserved to be called out. I couldn’t disagree more.
Listen, your hearts might have been broken for your friends personally, listen, I’ve had family around me for 13 years trying to get a pro card. Trust me, their hearts were broken as much as mine. When I would go to another show, another year and come up short of a pro card. They knew how hard I worked. They knew I put 100% in every prep,” said Cicherillo.
“Check your feelings at the door! Stop bashing shows your friends didn’t win.”
The last time fans heard from Cicherillo, he gave his thoughts on the recent 2023 Pittsburgh Pro guest posing spectacle. Big Ramy fulfilled his obligation this year, but Bob thought his physique looked the same or worse than at Mr. Olympia.
Overall, Cicherillo thinks judging should fairly and objectively compare different body types. He admits the system has flaws, but he urges fans not to criticize the shows.
RELATED: Bob Cicherillo Talks Olympia TV Labeling Athletes ‘Failures;’ Terrick El Guindy Apologizes
You can watch the video from the Voice of Bodybuilding YouTube channel below:
Published: 3 June, 2023 | 9:53 AM EDT
Rich Gaspari: ‘Chris Bumstead Needs 40 Lbs to Win Open Mr. Olympia, No One Is Close to Him in Classic’
Bodybuilding veteran Rich Gaspari is back to discuss the career of reigning four-time Classic Physique Olympia Chris Bumstead. In a recent Fitness Fame & Fortune podcast with John Romano, Gaspari critiqued Bumstead’s physique and shared what it would take to win the Open title at Mr. Olympia.
Since Bumstead’s 2019 Olympia takeover, contenders have yet to catch up to his physique. His full muscle bellies, x-frame, and conditioning have made for an overwhelming combination on stage. Before taking his talents to Las Vegas in December, Bumstead and his brother-in-law Iain Valliere decided to stop working together. With 12 weeks until the big show, Bumstead joined forces with bodybuilding coach Hany Rambod.
When the dust settled after 2022 Mr. Olympia many fans were shocked to find out Bumstead thwarted his competition successfully with a torn bicep. He has been open about his career as of late and mentioned that he’s on the hunt for a fifth title.
In addition to his growing popularity on social media, talks of Cbum moving to the Open have percolated for some time. Earlier this year, the 28-year-old said he would consider competing in the Open at the Arnold Classic if the contest was scheduled two weeks after Olympia. The latest to discuss his career was Rich Gaspari, who made a solid case for Bumstead winning Open Mr. Olympia with an added 40 pounds.
Rich Gaspari Assesses Cbum’s Physique, Believes He Needs 40 Lbs to Be a Mr. Olympia
According to Gaspari, competitors of Classic Physique lack muscle density and that ‘crazy look.’ When critiquing Bumstead’s physique, Rich said his arms were a weak point.
“Even in Classic, I don’t want to toot my own horn, you look at my physique when I won the 86 Pro Worlds, the density in that muscle, first of all, it was never seen those striations. Then, you look at guys that are winning now in Classic, they don’t even have that look, that crazy look. They have great symmetry, small waist.
You got Chris Bumstead, a really small waist. The one thing about Chris he doesn’t have huge arms, kind of weak in the arm size but a really good front double biceps. You see how he looks with the vacuum, good legs, but he doesn’t have big arms. That class is very very hard.”
“I saw him at the Pittsburgh Pro, they asked him if he’s considering going to the Open, he goes, ‘Are you crazy? How can I go to the Open? I’m grateful that I came into this sport at a time when Classic was big and I just fit the mold of what a Classic bodybuilder should look like and because of height and because of my weight, I can look a certain size that’s still impressive at my height and weight in the Classic category. And this is why I’m winning that category,’” shared Rich Gaspari.
Given his current build and genetics, Rich Gaspari laid out what it would take for Bumstead to make a play for Open Mr. Olympia gold.
“At least 40 pounds [he’d need to win Open Mr. Olympia]. Yeah, at least 40 pounds. He said it. He was like, ‘I’ll have to be 40 pounds bigger to be competitive with these guys and how do I know I’m going to look right?’ Because, you know, when you gain that muscle it may not necessarily look the way he looks now with the streamlined look that he has. It may not look the same.
He goes, ‘Why would I put my body through that when I’m doing really well in my category? That’s my category, I was fortunate to be born at this time.’ He’s dominating. He’s dominating, I think he’s going to win again, this is his fourth win, he’ll win a fifth Classic Bodybuilding because there’s no one close to him with his small joints, wide clavicle, small waist, big muscle bellies in his legs, the only weakness I see, he doesn’t have these huge arms, these huge peaked arms, but still, they’re good.”
Gaspari says Bumstead has found success in the category because of his bone structure, small waist, and wide clavicles. When comparing the Canadian to Arnold Schwarzenegger, Rich said Bumstead lacked charisma but made up for it with an authentic personality.
“He’s got 17 million followers, it’s an anomaly. Nobody has that type of following. He’s not flamboyant, charismatic, he’s actually, I hate to talk about him bad, he’s kind of boring. He’s authentic, he’s not like this charismatic, he’s not like Arnold, Arnold was very charismatic. Chris Bumstead is not charismatic, I’m not putting anything against him.”
“To really look good in Classic bodybuilding you need small bone structure, small waist, you need a wide clavicle, there’s a lot of factors that makes a good Classic bodybuilder. You can’t take a Jay Cutler and make him a Classic bodybuilder.”
Recently, event announcer Bob Cicherillo shared a similar prediction about Bumstead. However, he specified that Chris could be a threat on the Mr. Olympia stage with an added 20 pounds. If that were the case, Cicherillo argued that Cbum could push Samson Dauda, Nick Walker, or Mamdouh ‘Big Ramy’ Elssbiay.
Gaspari isn’t the only bodybuilding veteran to assess Bumstead’s physique and impact on the sport. Arnold Schwarzenegger has suggested that the Classic Physique champion should be crowned the Mr. Olympia title instead of the Open winner.
It’s evident that there’s a public interest to see Bumstead switch divisions. Though, in the meantime, he’s made it clear that his sole focus is on repeating as the Classic Physique Olympia on November 3.
RELATED: Bodybuilding Veteran Chris Cormier Breaks Down Chris Bumstead’s Chances In the Men’s Open Division
You can watch the full video from the Dragon Slayer Media YouTube channel below:
Published: 2 June, 2023 | 5:53 PM EDT
‘Chris Bumstead Should Get an Invitation’ to Open Olympia’: Chris Cormier & Olympia Judge
Canadian bodybuilder Chris Bumstead is easily one of the most popular contenders in the sport. What makes his success even more impressive is the fact that he doesn’t compete in the Men’s Open division, which generally serves as the main attraction of any event. In a recent episode of Prime Time Muscle, bodybuilding Hall of Famer Chris Cormier and Olympia judge Terrick El Guindy shared their thoughts on how Bumstead would fare if he switched divisions and voiced their support for him to receive an invitation to compete in the Open class at the Mr. Olympia competition.
Reigning four-time Classic Physique Olympia champion Chris Bumstead first gained attention for his impressive muscle mass, definition, and symmetry in 2017 when he took silver at Mr. Olympia. He fell short of former two-time champion Breon Ansley for the second time in 2018 before exacting revenge the following year in 2019 to win his maiden Sandow trophy. Once he reached the top, there was no stopping him as he racked up three successful title defenses.
Bumstead is coming off his fourth win at the 2022 Mr. Olympia last December. Following the victory, he announced his ambitions to win another title and opened up about finding his passion for bodybuilding again.
Four months ago, Bumstead gave his take on testing out the waters of the Men’s Open division. He expressed a desire to get a special invite and compete in the Open Arnold Classic contest on the condition that the event took place two or three weeks after Mr. Olympia.
Bumstead joined forces with Brazilian standout Ramon Rocha Queiroz for a heavy back training session earlier this year. Then, he teamed up with German sensation Urs Kalecinski for a sleeve-busting arms workout two weeks later.
Chris Bumstead With Coach Hany Rambod
‘CBum’ gave fans a look into his 3,500-calorie diet that he utilized in the 2023 off-season two months ago. He tipped the scales at 253 pounds and targeted adding more muscle mass to his frame. Then, Chris Bumstead showed off his massive back while crushing an intense upper-body workout. He later collaborated with seven-time 212 Olympia champion Flex Lewis for a taxing back training session.
Coach Hany Rambod wants Bumstead to bulk up to 255-258 pounds by the time off-season rolls out to start gearing up for the 2023 Mr. Olympia.
Olympia judge breaks down Chris Bumstead’s chances in the Men’s Open class
Olympia judge Terrick El Guindy shared his thoughts on how Chris Bumstead would look competing against the mass monsters of the Men’s Open division.
El Guindy lauded Bumstead for his mindset and believes he won’t aim for an extended run in the Open category.
“Chris Bumstead lives on his own pace,” said El Guindy. “He will not do anything to prove anything to anybody. If Chris Bumstead gets married and has two kids, looks at his wife and says I’m done, and everybody thinks he’s going to win the Mr. Olympia, he’s done. I give him a lot of credit because he’s a free-spirited guy who’s not going to be swayed by money or titles.
“If he does an Open bodybuilding show, I believe it’s going to be for fun. I think he’s going to give his best but I don’t think he’ll do on our terms he will do on his terms. He could very well show up at a show in Texas, here and there.
“Do I think that’s his career? I personally don’t. I don’t think Chris Bumstead will be known as an Open bodybuilder when he retires even if he competes. His legacy will be as the greatest Classic Physique of all time.”
Chris Bumstead / Instagram
Chris Cormier & El Guindy want ‘CBum’ to get an invitation
Chris Cormier and El Guindy extended their support for ‘CBum’ to receive an invitation for participating as an Open athlete.
“There’s some poses we would be dying to see Chris Bumstead up there against some of the top guys hitting the front lat spread, side chest, ab and thing, and such like that,” Cormier said. “Maybe even start just like Derek did. Go to Pittsburgh, try your luck on stage and see how you fare and just take it from there.
“Yeah I would give [Bumstead an invitation],” added Cormier. “He’s the most popular bodybuilder we have in the sport.”
El Guindy said, “If Derek got an invitation, Chris Bumstead should get one in my personal opinion, I’m not a decision maker.”
Chris Bumstead reflected on his partnership with former coach and Men’s Open standout Iain Valliere about two weeks ago. He credited Valliere for helping him stay healthy and succeed at a young age without using heavy amounts of steroids.
Even though Cbum competes in the Classic Physique division, his impact on the Open class is undeniable. Recently, 1990s bodybuilding veteran Kevin Levrone argued that Bumstead’s efforts have resulted in a new era of aesthetics in Open bodybuilding.
IFBB Pro League athletes’ representative Bob Cicherillo weighed in on Bumstead’s chances in the Open class and backed him to present a challenge against the likes of former two-time Mr. Olympia Mamdouh ‘Big Ramy’ Elssbiay, Samson Dauda, and Nick Walker if he added 15 to 20 pounds.
You can watch the full video below.
RELATED: Chris Bumstead on Fantasy Match-Up vs Arnold Schwarzenegger: ‘I Think I Would Beat Him’
Published: 2 June, 2023 | 9:15 AM EDT
Ross Flanigan Reveals How Vodka & Edibles Ruined Prep & Targets Arnold Classic Title in Next 2 Years
American bodybuilder Ross Flanigan made headlines after turning in a spectacular performance at the 2023 California State Pro, held May 27 in Anaheim, CA. In a recent interview with Muscular Development, Flanigan shared the story of how his prep for the 2022 Indy Pro got ruined and his ambitions in the game next.
Ross Flanigan started his career as an amateur bodybuilder under the NPCC in 2015. His potential was evident from the start as he took home the top prize in his division and the overall in his debut at the 2015 Shawn Ray Classic. He took to the sidelines for the next year and came back in 2017 with a dominant win at the Phil Heath Classic. He finished the season with a top-ten placing at the USA Championships.
Flanigan continued to work his way up the ranks. In 2018, he narrowly missed out on the gold at the North American Championships. He handily dispatched the competition in his next showing at the 2019 San Antonio Classic and followed up with a solid third-place finish at the 2019 National Championships. He added the 2020 Adela Garcia Classic title under his belt in Oct. 2020 and took runner-up at the 2020 National Championships a month later.
After taking 2021 off, Flanigan decided to turn Pro and joined the IFBB Pro League in 2022. He signed up for the 2022 Indy Pro for his maiden appearance. Although he was brimming with confidence going into the contest, he missed the mark on stage and settled for a ninth-place finish.
Ross Flanigan was last seen in action at the 2023 Musclecontest California Pro last weekend. The competition gained a ton of attention after Sergio Oliva Jr., son of three-time Mr. Olympia Sergio Oliva, joined the roster to make his long-awaited comeback just days out from the show. In the end, Flanigan managed to ward off the threats and came out on top of the contest with Oliva Jr. taking bronze and Tonio Burton in second place.
While he did not get the win, Oliva Jr. assured the fans he would continue to compete and stay active. As for Flanigan, the win secured him an invite to the upcoming 2023 Mr. Olympia competition, widely regarded as the most prestigious fitness showcase in the world, for the first time.
Ross Flanigan reveals how vodka & edibles ruined contest prep
In a recent YouTube video, Ross Flanigan revealed the reasons for his lackluster appearance at the 2022 Indy Pro. He explained he was in a good spot going into the show but a night of drinking vodka and ingesting cannabis-infused edibles derailed his progress.
“We were ready. I had shredded glutes five weeks out coasting in we didn’t have to manipulate water, didn’t have to do any diuretics,” said Flanigan. “All we were going to do and ironically, we have a video doing this, me and Dom toasting to such a successful pro debut. So, we take a shot of vodka and for some reason I am inclined to take an edible. And something happens with the combination of alcohol, the edible, my low body fat, dehydration maybe. I lose my f**king mind. I blackout.
“I don’t sleep. My cortisol goes crazy, I have this crazy panic attack and I end up gaining 20 pounds overnight of water. I just go from skeletor face to fat overnight.”
Flanigan shared two crucial tips for those in prep to help make the process a bit easier to handle.
“I have two tips for anyone that is in prep or prepping. Always stay physically active so track your steps. The more you move, the more you’re going to want to keep moving. Body in motion stays in motion. The same thing applies to your mind. Most people sit on the couch and just veg out but me, I’m literally always working, always moving. Preps are super easy and they’re super fulfilling because I get so much done.”
Flanigan is targeting an Arnold Classic title next & wants to improve his package with experience
Ross Flanigan expressed contentment with his recent performance. He wants to come in better next time and identified a need to level up his mid-back, chest, and triceps for Mr. Olympia later this year.
“Happiest, like I said I just wanted to show up on stage with my potential. I think I did that and we can’t wait to get on Toronto stage too because there’s a lot of things we can improve upon especially with posing that’ll make me a little bigger, want to come in a little drier and fuller for the prejudging for Toronto. But for the Olympia, I’m going to have a massive rebound. Definitely bring up my mid-back, chest, and triceps. I think that’ll make me much more complete but I’m not looking to put a placing goal. I just want to get better.”
While he doesn’t believe he would win the Sandow trophy just yet, he’d prefer to get as much experience as he can to improve his chances.
“I want to compete. I want to get in front of the judges more. I want more feedback. I know I’m not going to win the Olympia this year but if I keep progressing maybe three years, five years, the more stage time the more chances I have to showcase my bodybuilding, it’s going to be more beneficial than doing less shows.”
His ambition is to win an Arnold Classic title in the next two years or so.
“An Arnold Classic championship would be the top goal. I’m 32, only been bodybuilding seriously for the last 3-4 years and an Arnold Classic title by 35 would be realistic.”
Ross Flanigan is set to compete at the upcoming 2023 Toronto Pro Supershow, scheduled for Jun. 3-4 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. He will likely face a tough challenge from the likes of Men’s Open standout Iain Valliere, Jason Lowe, and Hassan Mostafa.
Based on his latest update, Flanigan looks focused on scoring back-to-back wins with another stellar performance this weekend. Although he’s already qualified for the Olympia, it will certainly boost his confidence further.
You can watch the full video below.
Published: 1 June, 2023 | 11:15 PM EDT