Tag: Videos
Natha De Asha Targets Goals for 2023 Olympia & Showdown With Samson Dauda: ‘I’m Heavier I’ve Ever Been’
UK-based Men’s Open powerhouse Nathan De Asha is mapping out his respective 2023 bodybuilding season. In an interview with Muscular Development, De Asha discussed training, injuries, diet, Samson Dauda, and his game plan for qualifying for this year’s Mr. Olympia.
“Yeah, I’ll be fuc**ng rock hard, I’ll be fuc**ng rock hard [If I meet Samson Dauda again],” De Asha shared discussing this year’s Olympia contest.
Despite his recent hiatus, Nathan De Asha is a proven force as a Men’s Open competitor courtesy of his massive arms, popping chest, and capped shoulders. He enjoyed a stellar 2021 season which saw him claim back-to-back titles at the Europa Pro Championships and Arnold Classic UK. En route to earning gold in the U.K., De Asha defeated a lesser-known Samson Dauda, who has since gone on to find great success in the league.
De Asha’s momentum in Europe wouldn’t stop in his native country as he made an appearance at the 2021 Yamamoto Cup, once again laying claim to the top prize, and in the process, outpointing bronze-finisher Samson Dauda as well as runner-up Roelly ‘The Beast’ Winklaar on the scorecards.
While De Asha has been nursing a pair of shoulder injuries for some time, it appears a comeback is on the horizon this year. The Open bodybuilding star joined Giles Thomas for an honest interview about where he intends to take his career in the coming months.
Nathan De Asha Lays Out Aggressive 2023 Mr. Olympia Campaign; Talks Battling Samson Dauda
De Asha’s goal is to win a number of pro shows in Europe to prevent other contenders from making their way to the Olympia stage.
“All these new pros coming through… saying the old guard is gone, my intention this year is to get all these new apparently top five Olympias, take their fuc**ng Olympia spots away. So I’m going to Spain, few Brazilians are going, I’ll beat them. Go to Spain and hopefully go to Italy and see where we’re at, maybe France also, one of them, maybe one or two of them.”
Even though he’s been away from competition for only one year, De Asha is convinced fans and competitors have forgotten the physique he’s capable of crafting. He added that he’s happier and the heaviest he’s ever been in the 2023 off-season.
“People think I’ve been gone for years in this sport, I’ve only missed a year. I’ve missed one year you know what I mean. People think you’re never coming back but I’m here to show them it’s possible. And you know obviously, all the guys… I’ll just smoke them again mate, it’s just one of those things. I think people forget what I can bring.”
“I’m happy and heavier I’ve ever been before,” said De Asha. “I don’t like him as a person but I like his physique I’ll be honest. I don’t like him as a person but you have to like his physique. I was a bit mad the way – I don’t understand the judging to be totally honest at the Arnold. Why? I don’t see why Nick Walker got second if Samson won it, you should have put Andrew Jacked second, I would have anyway.”
“Seeing him doing well for himself, I congratulate him it’s probably the best Samson I’ve seen on stage, probably the biggest I’ve seen him, 290 pounds or something – absolutely massive. He and Milos are doing great things together. Hopefully, he can bring it to the Olympia this year,” added De Asha.
De Asha Address Bicep Tears, Training Details & Diet
De Asha revealed his training intensity will ramp up at the end of May. He’s been careful during training sessions to avoid additional injuries.
“We been like training end of May, June, started getting back to training hoping we can qualify this year’s Olympia. We know we can qualify doing a late show. Obviously thought of Patrick Jordan, he got behind me and told me things to do. I’ve been to the Pinatta studios and they got some new machines. They have this new incline biceps curl, didn’t like it,” added De Asha. “I was careful, I felt my ankle, literally felt like I snapped me arm, I said I’m not happy, it’s sore, it’s sore. They keep telling me to go through, go through. Kept on trying to do that shit, and came home the next day in agony.”
Despite some depression, De Asha said he’s gotten over his injuries and is determined not to let the adversity affect his mental outlook.
“Yeah it was a big deal [to overcome that injury] but I never took it serious. A lot of these guys, their heads go because that’s all he got mate. They take it so serious. For me, I’m good at it, and its something I like doing. A lot of guys take it serious and it gets to them. I’m not going to lie I was depressed because I didn’t go to the Olympia the year before, I didn’t believe I would have been the strongest at Olympia, and then I was like, ‘Fu** I should have done it,’ and this and that. But that year, 2021, was more about the money rather than placing in the Olympia.”
As far as nutrition is concerned, De Asha plans to start taking his diet more seriously in July.
“I need a bit more work but it’s coming. I just got to keep plugging a lot. I think I start dieting in July probably.”
One of the last times fans heard from De Asha, he discussed the controversial compound trenbolone. The popular drug has become a common tool used in the fitness and bodybuilding sectors. Despite its reputation for altering the mood, De Asha prefers the powerful compound because it makes him feel stronger year-round.
With a constantly changing Men’s Open division, Nathan De Asha would certainly be a wildcard should he qualify for the 2023 Mr. Olympia. Given his history with Samson Dauda, fans would love nothing more than to see the two square off on stage again.
RELATED: Nathan De Asha Tests Himself With A Killer Shoulder Workout
Watch the full YouTube video from the Muscular Development YouTube channel:
Published: 10 May, 2023 | 1:48 PM EDT
Hunter Labrada Shares 277.6-Lb Ripped Physique Weeks From 2023 Tampa Pro, Texas Pro; Gives Exercise Selection Tips
Rising Men’s Open star Hunter Labrada is eager to redeem his 2022 Mr. Olympia performance after falling to seventh. In a recent YouTube video and Instagram post, Labrada revealed his weight of 277.6 pounds and offered fans tips on maximizing performance through exercise selection.
It’s been an exciting IFBB Pro League career thus far for Hunter, son of IFBB Hall of Famer Lee Labrada. Last year, fans deemed him an early Olympia favorite given his mass and conditioning levels displayed throughout the off-season. However, when he traveled to Las Vegas for the show, he was met with heavy resistance on stage in the form of his rival Nick Walker, Samson Dauda, and many others.
In the end, Labrada would secure seventh at 2022 Mr. Olympia, three spots below his performance the year prior. Processing the aftermath, he was transparent about the seemingly botched prep and peak. Labrada’s coach, Ben Chow, later suggested that Hunter carried excessive weight too close to contest prep which exacerbated the peaking process in the days leading up to the show.
While Hunter’s placement consumed him with anger, he says he’s now using the setback as fuel to further his success. Lee’s father spilled the beans in Feb. on The Menace Podcast with Dennis James and revealed his son Hunter was aiming to compete at two bodybuilding contests before even considering another Mr. Olympia. After throwing his hat into the 2023 Tampa Pro and Texas Pro, Labrada provided a recent update on his progress as well as some exercise selection tips.
Hunter Labrada Shares Impressive Update at 277.6 Lbs & Tips on Exercise Selection: ‘Avoid Joint Pain’
Labrada reported that he and his team have begun pulling food in preparation for the 2023 Tampa Pro, scheduled for Aug. 3-5. In addition, he provided a comprehensive diet plan consisting of six meals.
“Inside of 13 and 15 weeks out from Tampa and Texas, respectively?? 277.6 fasted this morning.–Made our first aggressive pull on food 3 days ago, so definitely just now starting to see/feel that! We also removed all whey protein from my diet, so we will finally see what that does??? Really looking forward to seeing what winning another week will look like running things more aggressively like we are!–Other than that, no real changes to report! Still training on the same split with no modifications to volume or intensity, and still doing 30 min on the stairs at level 5 fasted for cardio??–Really looking forward to seeing my @npcnewsonlineofficialpage / @ifbb_pro_league family this coming weekend in Pittsburgh, as well as all fans coming out to support all the incredible pro and amateur athletes competing!–Current nutrition:Meal 1170g Lean Beef220g Rice50g Green Veg
Meal 2170g Chicken Breast220g Rice50g Green Veg
Pre workout20g EAAs5g Creatine
Meal 3- Post220g Lean White Fish/Cod220g Rice50g Green Veg
Meal 4170g Chicken Breast220g Rice50g Green Veg
Meal 5220g Lean White Fish/Cod220g Rice50g Green Veg
Meal 6170g Lean Beef300g Potato50g Green Veg” Hunter Labrada wrote.
In a separate YouTube segment, Hunter Labrada discussed the significance of exercise selection. During the video, he said lifers should look through a metaphorical ‘lens’ while exercising. He demonstrated the process he follows for selecting his workout routine and when changes are necessary for advancing progress.
“The first thing that comes down to exercise selection in my mind, and this is going to be like a filter that we’re going to work our way through and pick – pick our exercises and why I would switch them out afterward. The first filter I’m looking through for exercise selection is what is the main priority for the day or what is you know the main bang for your buck that we could get out of that day. A smaller body part, something like arms or shoulders or something like that, there might not be a ton of variation to which you can do but a larger body part like the back or legs, quite a bit of prioritization that you could do, that’s where I would first start.”
“Let’s use back day for example and I’m trying to bring up my lower lats at all costs. Knowing that in my back session, I’m going to A prioritize exercises that hit my lower lats, and B prioritize them lower in the session. That’s the first lens I look through for the exercise selection what am I trying to bring up and improve the most on any given session in this day.”
“The next lens that I’m looking through is, what is the best exercise to accomplish this with? Best is a relative term and it’s one you can really define in a lot of ways; I’ve boiled it down to meeting criteria. A best exercise in my opinion is the one that offers the best alignment, the best resistance profile, and the best bracing ability. Alignment, everything is lined up there’s not any weird tork on any of the joints involved, resistance profile, it’s heaviest where it should be heaviest and drop off where it should drop off, and bracing this how well I can brace this.”
According to Labrada, once an exercise is no longer garnering results, it’s time to change movements to facilitate substantial progress.
“There’s telltale ones [signs of when you need to switch your workout] that I’ve gotten from my personal experience and talking with others. The first one is that your no longer making progress in it. You’re running it into the dirt a while, two or three sessions have gone by where you were not taking steps forward or even taking steps back, that’s a good sign that you’ve used that runway and progressed that lift as much as you can at that point,” Labrada said.
“The last reason and this is one that hopefully doesn’t surface a lot especially if you know, you’re doing your leg works on terms of looking at those exercises through the lens and meeting the criteria we talked about earlier. They’re starting to put you in pain, you’re doing exercise XYZ and it’s really making joint XYZ here, that needs to come out, the worst thing you can do is push through joint pain.”
This wasn’t the first time Labrada has offered guidance on pushing past workout plateaus. He shared that he encounters this problem during preps from time to time. In order to remedy the problem, Labarada implements a ‘plateau breaker’ or ‘intensity technique’ at the end of his workouts to maximize results.
RELATED: Bodybuilder Hunter Labrada Shares Detoxifying ‘Gut Health Drink’ for Optimal Digestion
Given his lineage, comprehensive nature, and work ethic, fans believe it’s only a matter of time before Hunter is pushing for Mr. Olympia gold. The bodybuilding community will get a sneak peek of his physique soon as Labrada is scheduled to guest pose at Jim Manion’s 2023 Pittsburgh Pro next weekend.
Watch the full video below from Hunter Labrada’s YouTube channel:
Published: 10 May, 2023 | 11:19 AM EDT
Jay Cutler Draws Similarity to Brian Shaw, Talks 2023 Pittsburgh Pro: ‘Derek’s Going to Wow People Again’
Bodybuilding legend Jay Cutler moved on from professional competition years ago but always has his finger on the pulse of the sport. He’s not lost his passion for fitness and is currently working towards a body transformation challenge. In a recent video posted on YouTube, Cutler talked about his similarities to Strongman icon Brian Shaw and shared his thoughts on the upcoming 2023 Pittsburgh Pro and lowering his carb intake to get leaner for the ‘Fit for 50’ challenge.
Jay Cutler first made headlines for his insane muscle mass, size, and overall proportion as a Men’s Open competitor in the IFBB Pro League in 1999. He racked up three Arnold Classic titles and graced the covers of several magazines in the early 2000s. His fierce rivalry with legendary bodybuilder Ronnie Coleman elevated his star power.
Cutler fell short of the eight-time Mr. Olympia on four occasions before finally securing his maiden Sandow trophy in 2006. He added a successful title defense the following year and reclaimed the title in 2009 by dethroning Dexter Jackson. With four Olympia wins under his belt, Cutler hung up his posing trunks after a final appearance in 2013.
Jay Cutler And Brian Shaw
Earlier this year, Cutler gave his take on using steroids and cycling on and off gear to achieve the results he wanted. However, he stressed the importance of being consistent with training and nutrition to sculpt the ideal physique regardless.
The 49-year-old offered some of his best workout tips on developing a gigantic chest two months ago. He recommended feeling the contraction in each movement and laid out the exercises he liked to utilize for the training session. He’s currently gearing up for the ‘Fit for 50’ body transformation challenge he set for himself. He shared an impressive physique update where he showed off his monstrous package as part of the challenge.
Jay Cutler draws a likeness to legendary Strongman Brian Shaw
In a recent YouTube video, Jay Cutler found similarities between Strongman legend Brian Shaw and himself after the 2023 WSM.
Brian Shaw / Courtesy of World’s Strongest Man
Legendary strongman Brian Shaw is one of the most successful strength competitors of all time. He won four World’s Strongest Man contests (2011, 2013, 2015, 2016) and competed in the finals of the competition for a historic 16 times. He stands as the fourth most decorated strongman in history with 26 titles.
Shaw was last seen in action at the 2023 World’s Strongest Man a month ago. He revealed he contracted an infection that resulted in him nearly losing his leg while getting ready for the event. He detailed how he overcame the setback and identified the infection as a severe case of leg cellulitis. Fortunately, he recovered in time and made his way to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina for the show.
The 41-year-old completed his final WSM showing with a record-breaking performance on the Stone-Off to get his entry into the finals. In the end, he finished the event in seventh place. Following the result, Shaw admitted age may have factored into his performance and called for a change in the format of the show last week.
“It sounds like he’s got a lot of great things going on that his transition will be similar to mine,” said Cutler. “It’s kind of funny because we have a lot of similarities in our career, four times champ, and I finished six my last. So when you were saying he finished seventh I was like I got six the last one.”
Matt: “We always joke about that. There’s Brian Shaw and Jay Cutler, both got three Arnolds. You guys are so alike. Me being around both of you I see the similarities, it’s almost eerie. It’s like he’s the Strongman version of you.”
Coleman was left stunned after watching some of Shaw’s most insane lifts in Strongman contests earlier this month.
Cutler shares his expectations for the 2023 Pittsburgh Pro
Many of the top Men’s Open contenders will take their talents to the 2023 Pittsburgh Pro for guest posing appearances, including Olympia runner-up Derek Lunsford, fellow standout Nick Walker, former two-time Mr. Olympia Mamdouh ‘Big Ramy’ Elssbiay, and freshly minted Arnold Classic champ Samson Dauda.
Jay Cutler believes Ramy has the most pressure on his shoulders given his dethroning at the 2022 Mr. Olympia and expects Lunsford to make a statement another time after his previous Pittsburgh Pro showing last year.
“I think Derek’s going to wow people again. I think Nick’s on a mission. I saw he’s starting prep. Will Ramy show up and what will he look like? I think that’s the big question. I think Ramy will be big as hell and Samson will be big. We’ve seen some pictures of him. He’s going to scare some people. So, I think Ramy will be huge, Samson will be huge, Nick will be huge, Derek will be crazy and better condition than last year because he’s going to have more muscle.”
“I expect the house to come down man. I wish I was going to be there.”
Derek Lunsford Posing At The 2022 Pittsburgh Pro
Cutler reveals goal for ‘Fit for 50’ challenge
Jay Cutler opened up on his ambitions for the ‘Fit for 50’ challenge. While he has no intentions of coming back to competition, his aim is to get leaner.
“I’m making a priority to get my workouts in so I eat one meal. I haven’t done cardio fasted I stopped doing that. I did a little bit after training today so I try to get the training in to get in front of everything else so it’s done.
“That’s what I kinda dealt with when I downsized. That’s the difference like I look good in certain but in my back the muscle’s not filling out the skin so I feel like sometimes when I stand I have little folds and stuff. I’m hoping that what’s going to do over this time of dieting, it’s going to shrink that a little bit but also give me a little more fullness to the muscle where I don’t really want to get a lot bigger but I really think the nutrition is going to play the key in this and having enough protein and obviously carbohydrates mixed in there but I’m trying to scale back. I would like to do a little lower carbs even though I was a huge carb advocate just because I got bigger on that where I’m not trying to be bigger. I’m just trying to be leaner so that’s kinda the goal by the time I finish this thing.”
Jay Cutler is confident he could significantly improve his physique with proper nutrition, training, and only using TRT (testosterone replacement therapy). Last month, he compared his training style to that of six-time Mr. Olympia Dorian Yates. In stark contrast to Cutler’s volume-heavy approach, Yates would push himself to near failure each time he worked out.
Last week, Cutler identified a need to add volume in certain areas of his physique. He’s been consuming a high-protein diet along with regular workouts to achieve the goal.
You can watch the full video below.
Published: 10 May, 2023 | 9:01 AM EDT
Nick Walker Reveals Training Structure, Role of Science & Drugs in Bodybuilding
American bodybuilder Nick Walker is one of the frontrunners for the upcoming 2023 Mr. Olympia competition. After placing third at the previous event, he will look to challenge for the coveted Sandow trophy later this year. In a recent video posted on YouTube, Walker shared the changes in his training structure after the 2023 Arnold Classic, how much science goes into his training, and the role of drugs in bodybuilding.
Nick Walker first gained attention for his freakish muscle mass, size, and granite conditioning levels in the IFBB Pro League Men’s Open division. He took home the top prize at the 2021 New York Pro and scored another win at the 2021 Arnold Sports Festival. He concluded one of the best rookie years of his generation with a fifth-place finish in his Olympia debut.
Walker presented a significantly enhanced package with a narrower waistline at the 2022 Mr. Olympia last December. He placed third behind runner-up Derek Lunsford and champ Hadi Choopan. After the result, he set his eyes on the 2023 Arnold Classic title. He went into the show as the betting favorite and the highest-ranked Olympian. In the end, Walker took silver as Samson Dauda pulled off the upset and won the title.
Considering the improved package Walker brought to the stage in Ohio, many thought he performed well enough to get the win. Walker admitted it was a tough reality to accept for him as he came into the show brimming with confidence. Former Mr. Olympia Samir Bannout sided with Walker in the matter in his analysis of the competition. IFBB Pro League athletes’ representative Bob Cicherillo argued against their stance and laid out a comprehensive guide on judging a freaky physique against a more aesthetic one.
Nick Walker / Instagram
Two months ago, ‘The Mutant’ opened up on being a hyper-responder to steroids while detailing the evolution of his cycles over time. While he doesn’t push gear as hard as he used to, he indicated plans to dial in on his nutrition for the current season. Olympia judge Terrick El Guindy and Hall of Famer Chris Cormier praised Walker’s potential and backed him as a potential champion if he worked on his legs. Cormier highlighted the intense rivalry Walker developed with Lunsford, which has fans even more enthusiastic about their next meeting.
Nick Walker made his way to Canada for a guest posing appearance at the 2023 Pure Muscle Championships last month. A week later, he voiced his disapproval of his defeat to Dauda at the Arnold Classic. Although he’s not resentful of the outcome, he believes he had the better package and vowed to leave no stone unturned in his preparations for the Olympia. He’s confident he could dethrone Choopan based on his track record of coming in better shape.
Nick Walker reveals training structure & changes after the 2023 Arnold Classic
Nick Walker shared the structure of his training sessions in a recent appearance on YouTube.
“[Most important movement] is usually first or second movement,” said Walker. “Just for the connection. It’s already pumped it’s warm so now when I go to press I just feel I connect better. It’s the same thing with legs like if I start with the leg press when I go to a squat type movement my legs automatically connect better than anything. If I start with a squat I feel it in my knees a little bit. I got to take for everyone and it’s not the same when I do a leg press I feel nothing.
“There’s no pain. I’m good on that one so when I kill that leg press they’re always pumped. They’re fired up. I go to a squat now. The pump is so big it hurts and it’s just unbearable at that point and then even after that to finish off with leg extensions I’m toasted.”
He laid out the changes he made after the 2023 Arnold Classic.
“I’m all for learning the biomechanics. I was working with Matt. He’s the very low volume high intensity guy that’s also what I’m used to but I kinda steered away from it a little bit. I have the size so I’m going to not go not once they go as intense but more volume without taking a lot more sense to failure to get more round fullness that I think I needed which I do think benefited me for the Olympia. But at the same time I enjoy that low intensity high training, high volume is fun. But there’s just nothing better than picking some heavy sh*t out there.”
“That’s not all because we can all do that but if you’re not targeting the muscle you want to target it becomes pointless and you’re just kind of fatiguing yourself and youre not getting anything out of it.”
“Training with Jared, he’s all about full range. I thought I always was I guess not so my feet actually are a little wider on a platform and a little more put out so I can go all the way down. A lot of people would be like that’s what a duck is doing, more hamstring when I’m done. First of all, my legs, my quads are so pumped outer sweep that everyone thinks are so weak or flaring. I get their point but if it’s working for me it’s working.”
Walker argued he should’ve defeated Lunsford for second place at the 2022 Mr. Olympia.
“I knew it was going to be between me, Hadi, Derek just the way things were moving around. That’s what I figured out through prejudging. I didn’t think I was going to win just because I was never directly ever in the middle but I did believe I was going to be at least second. Obviously, no disrespect to Derek but I just think I get it and I said this before he has one of, if not the best shape on the stage.
There’s so much more to it and I felt like beside that aspect I feel like I beat him in every other criteria. That’s they want. I do think I should’ve gotten second but again I wasn’t disappointed by any means. It’s a two-place jump.”
Walker talks about the role of science & drugs in bodybuilding
Nick Walker shared his thoughts on how much science goes into his approach to training.
“Zero. When people are trying to preach size to them they shut the f**k up. I’m number three in the world. This works for me. It’s as basic as it would sound from a bodybuilder it’s just I’m a bro and bro stuff and it works. It’s like hiring a coach that’s been through it knows what he’s doing than someone who’s just science. It’s cool to know that I do but if that’s all we’re not going to work.”
He gave his take on the importance of steroids as a competitor.
“Drugs play a role so I do agree with that but to get to that point I’m going to be honest and say I don’t think, growth’s a different story, that’s a different type of animal but I don’t think people need as much as they think they need to progress to where they need. There some people that are not I would say to the genetic elite that I am that may have to push a little harder. Sure, there are those that’s where science doesn’t make sense for someone like me. I can get away with not doing a crazy amount of things and progress haywire and the three major things that will take somebody to that next level as you already stated training, recovery, sleep, body, work.
Consistency, eating, and training hard those are like the three main things and consistency with those things over time. Those are the things that need to be addressed. People are not as disciplined. They can do it for a week, two weeks, maybe two months but if they’re not necessarily seeing what they want to see they’re like yeah it’s all right, then you have the party drugs if you are mixing that with anabolics, you’re just waiting for a big problem to happen.”
Cicherillo favored Hadi Choopan to retain his title against Nick Walker in his early prediction last month. He highlighted the danger Samson Dauda would present to any contender on the Olympia stage, including Choopan.
Walker crushed a heavy push-day training session last week. He offered some vital tips on how to maximize the effectiveness of the chest, shoulders, and triceps workout. He received major praise for his intense mindset from renowned bodybuilding guru Hany Rambod days later.
‘The Mutant’ is confident with the amount of muscle size on his frame. He’s aiming to bring an impeccable blend of the freak factor as displayed at the last Olympia, and aesthetics, similar to his Arnold Classic performance, in hopes of becoming the new champion.
You can watch the full video below.
RELATED: Nick Walker on Using Kratom for Cardio Before 2023 Arnold Classic: ‘I Feel Great and Full of Energy’
Published: 9 May, 2023 | 8:16 PM EDT
Chris Aceto Talks Big Ramy & Derek Lunsford Battle at 2023 Pittsburgh Pro Guest Posing: ‘Leave an Impression’
With the 2023 Pittsburgh Pro approaching next weekend, Chris Aceto is taking a closer look at the stars expected to perform on stage. Speaking in a RxMuscle interview, Aceto predicted standout performances from Mamdouh ‘Big Ramy’ Elssbiay and Derek Lunsford, who both share the same goal of winning this year’s Mr. Olympia show. The Men’s Open division has been turned upside down after the conclusion of the 2022 Mr. Olympia event. For starters, Ramy fell to fifth place after most in the community suspected he was off on stage, such as IFBB Pro League head judge Steve Weinberger. Instead, Hadi Choopan reigned supreme and won his first title whereas Derek Lunsford and Nick Walker rounded out the podium in second and third. Judging became a hot topic on the heels of the 2023 Arnold Classic competition which took place in March. Despite his status as the highest-ranking Olympian, Walker ended the show in second behind Nigerian native Samson Dauda. In the meantime, Lunsford made it clear that he was using the off-season to increase his chances of winning the next Mr. Olympia.
Last year, Lunsford guest posed in place of Big Ramy who failed to meet his obligation. Lunsford and Walker stole the show anyhow, which paved Derek’s way to a special invitation from the Olympia brass to compete in the Open. Given the significance of the Pittsburgh Pro guest posing event, fans consider it an appetizer for what is to come in November at 2023 Olympia.
Chris Aceto on Big Ramy at 2023 Pittsburgh Pro Guest Posing: “100% Slam Dunk Bigger Than He’s Ever Been”
Aceto believes Big Ramy will remind the bodybuilding community that he’s still a viable Mr. Olympia threat once he’s done guest posing in Pittsburgh.
“Mark my words, slam dunk. He’ll be in good shape and he’ll be way bigger than he’s ever been. We can play this show back but go ahead. 100% to use the 100% three times in one show,” said Chris Aceto.
Similar to last year, Aceto expects Derek Lunsford to make a powerful impression. He anticipates the former 212 Olympia to be even bigger on stage than in 2022. In addition, he believes Lunsford will have made improvements to his upper body, most notably his chest.
“We got Ramy, who else? Lunsford will look better than last year, he’s also gearing up to leave an impression. Unfortunately, if you’re not gearing up to make an impression for this show, you’re making a mistake. Derek is gearing up to leave an impression that he’s going to win the Mr. Olympia. He’s going to be bigger than last year, rounder, his upper body will be better.
He’ll probably be close to last year’s condition, but probably better. But the scuttlebutt will be you know, his front double is better than Ramy’s front double and his back double is better than Ramy’s back double because he’ll be in better condition than Ramy because naturally it’s easier for him to get in better condition than Ramy.” “Some people have an easier time getting into condition than others, added Aceto. “I think it’s [small waist] is probably a combination of all those. He’s just crazy round,” said Aceto.
Aceto Touches on Judging & How Hadi Choopan Won 2022 Mr. Olympia Title: ‘Tremendous Condition Still at a Bigger Weight’
Aceto says judges at major contests like Mr. Olympia look at physiques for something ‘truly special.’ He specified that Choopan won last year because he brought excellent conditioning but paired it with more size.
“The Olympia, you know, when you’re being judged at the Olympia, I think the judges want to see no stone left unturned. That means they want to see something special. At that level, everyone is big, so they need to see something that is truly special. Look at how successful Hadi has been from day one at the Olympia, this year, of course, he was fuller than ever, not fuller, but bigger and he brought tremendous condition still at a bigger weight and that’s what put him over the top. They want to see something special, usually something special means conditioning.”
In regards to the judging process, Aceto believes it’s fair to wait a few days after a show before asking officials what areas of improvement are needed to advance further in the sport.
“I would never go up to a judge and say hey what did you think between second and first or first and second, I would give him a lot of time before I ask him, and I wouldn’t necessarily blab it out on a show, ‘Oh I spoke to Bill, oh I spoke to Steve and they had so and so in ninth place during prejudging, then he ended up in ninth because of XYZ, a show is a show, but you have to keep some level of fairness there if that makes sense.” “People can come off as biased or unfair when they connect it to the Olympia and make criticisms of people’s attention,” said Aceto.
The last time fans heard from Chris Aceto, he discussed the chances of four-time Mr. Olympia Jay Cutler returning to the stage. Despite fan speculation, rumors online, and the return of Masters Olympia in August, Aceto said Cutler isn’t even considering it on a scale of 1-10. RELATED: Chris Aceto Talks 2023 Arnold Classic Judging Backlash, Says Nick Walker Beats Samson Dauda ‘1v1’ Next weekend, bodybuilding fans will have a teaser of the upcoming season at Jim Manion’s 2023 Pittsburgh Pro. In addition to the contests, Nick Walker, Samson Dauda, Shaun Clarida, Hunter Labrada, Big Ramy, and Derek Lunsford will be in attendance to stake their claim as the next contender to push Hadi Choopan for gold.
Watch the full RxMuscle interview below:
Published: 9 May, 2023 | 4:28 PM EDT
Rich Gaspari, John Romano Talk Health Implications of Competitive Bodybuilding
Bodybuilding veteran Rich Gaspari joined industry expert John Romano for a candid discussion about steroids. In a recent Fame, Fitness & Fortune podcast, Gaspari and Romano examined the use of trenbolone in-depth and revealed some of its benefits and drawbacks.
Gaspari, who competed in the 1980s and ’90s, was a conditioning pioneer, having been the first man to display striated glutes on a bodybuilding stage. Even though he was unable to capture the prestigious Mr. Olympia title during his tenure, Gaspari was the first winner of Arnold Schwarzenegger‘s inaugural Arnold Classic in 1989.
Given his accolades and achievements, Gasapri’s voice holds weight in the bodybuilding community. He regularly compares different eras of competitors. For instance, he sparked fan backlash online after posting a side-by-side picture of Dorian Yates and Hadi Choopan. He made the comparison because he was trying to argue that dry conditioning has fallen by the wayside in the Open class today.
Gaspari’s issues with the Open class didn’t end there. In the 58-year-old’s opinion, athletes in the Open have begun to rely on drugs more so than hard work, training, and proper nutrition. In his latest endeavor, Rich took a closer look at a powerful compound called trenbolone, which has quickly become popular and controversial due to its reputation for causing dramatic gains and mental instability.
Note: Fitness Volt does not condone and/or recommend the use of recreational or performance-enhancing drugs. This article reports on information relayed by the athlete or subject. FitnessVolt is not a medical resource and the content provided to you is for informational purposes only.
Rich Gaspari & John Romano Praise Trenbolone for Gains But Highlight Harsh Side Effects on Mood
Romano started by saying the younger generation of athletes has nicknamed insulin ‘slin.’
“One of my classic most-hated terms is running slin, running slin, you ever heard that one, insulin, running insulin. What am I running, EQ and deca,” said John Romano.
Gaspari said tren has become one of the most talked about compounds in the fitness sector. He added that the gains from trenbolone are impressive but come with drawbacks, specifically to the liver and cardiovascular system.
“The new one is tren, these tren people, you hear about Trenbolone constantly online and you guys, if you want to know what Trenbolone is, let’s talk about it, you probably know more about the characteristics of what it does. First of all, it’s a very harsh steroid, you can make really great gains off trenbolone, but it’s very harsh on your liver, it’s very harsh on your cardiovascular system, when you inject it, you cough right way. And then the tren cough,” says Rich Gaspari.
“These are the pellets that — back in the day, this is what [we used],” said Gaspari. “Today’s bodybuilders… they only know about the liquid oil that you get, it’s a very yellow liquid, but explain to them these pellets and you had to set up this old kit, that was the old trenbolone.”
Romano explained the differences in trenbolone formulations as some are more quick-acting than others. Gaspari and Romano agree that pairing trenbolone and Sustanon together results in an effective combination for promoting muscle growth.
“You got to remember it’s the ester that’s important, so trenbolone acetate is the quick-acting tren, the most powerful one right, so it’s – they don’t make it for humans. At the time, I don’t think they still do this, but when it started getting big in the late 80s early 90s because people were taking finijet, but finijet, the Ester’s name is this long, it’s like hex blah blah blah, LMNOP, we’ll just call it hex for short. That was a real Caddy drug, very expensive hard to get,” said John Romano.
“But acetate esters is the more potent one,” added Romano. “That’s why tren and sustanon made such a great mix because you had to take sustanon every other day too because of the propionate component – you always defer to the fastest esters regardless of if it’s a mix. Proprianate is the faster ester of the [bunch],” said Romano.
“Sustanon is a blend of four testosterone one of them being proprianate – that’s the important one because you have to defer to it because it’s the fastest acting one. That’s why you have to take sustanon every other day and that’s why tren goes very well with it because sustanon is a powerful well-used steroid paired with trenbolone acetate. If you don’t grow on that, you’re not growing.”
Gaspari contends even the nicest person would turn ‘nasty’ on a regular trenbolone dose.
“What people are taking are the tren acetate,” added Gaspari. “What I’m seeing with people, so we’re talking about the great effects, really great gains, you’re going to get really big. Tell them the bad things. One of the things I’ve noticed taking tren is it makes you nasty, nuts. Even the nicest, even Mr. Rogers would be nasty.”
In the past, Romano said trenbolone use caused him to feel anger over manufactured thoughts that weren’t real.
“Me, included, me especially, not only does it make me nuts, like wanting to kill, but it causes me to fabricate scenarios in my brain that do not exist and I react to them and get angry over them. Man, it’s only because I do have a strong mind that I’m able to understand that that’s why that’s happening and not to react to it. For as long as I’m on tren, it’s always a struggle to remember reality and what I’ve manufactured are two different things, and don’t react.”
“Users beware, you’re probably going to punch people in the face at the gym,” joked Gaspari.
Gaspari isn’t the only athlete in bodybuilding calling attention to the dangers of trenbolone. Powerlifter and bodybuilder Larry Wheels said he used the compound for some time, which he described as a ‘living hell.’
Contrarily, Nathan De Asha, a popular UK-based Open competitor, swears by the compound and says he takes it year-round for maintaining strength. He also mentioned that using the compound hasn’t made him any more aggressive.
RELATED: Zack Khan Says Athletes Should ‘Stop Chasing the Scale’ and Mega Dosing Steroids: ‘I Don’t Understand It’
While Gaspari and Romano respect the benefits of trenbolone, they understand that taking the compound should be approached with caution. However, there’s no denying it’s widely used at the top levels of the IFBB Pro League.
Watch the full video below from the Dragon Slayer Media YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8DvXjAFYynI
Published: 9 May, 2023 | 2:10 PM EDT
Nick Walker Signals Intensity Shift in Training/PEDs for 2023 Mr. Olympia: ‘Growing Now, Strength is Up’
Nick Walker has set his sights on the 2023 Mr. Olympia title as his off-season efforts are well underway. In a recent Mutant and the Mouth podcast, Walker discussed his diet and game plan to take the title from the reigning champion Hadi Choopan in November.
“I feel great. Now that recovery is better, oh my God, fantastic,” Walker said regarding the next stage of his off-season.
Impossible to ignore, Nick Walker emerged as a Men’s Open frontrunner after winning the 2021 New York Pro and Arnold Classic consecutively. His freakish muscle mass, size, and hardness set him apart from his contemporaries. Though perhaps his massive arms were his biggest claim to fame, so much so, his biceps have even been compared with icon and Mr. Olympia kingpin Ronnie Coleman. With considerable momentum, Walker entered his first Mr. Olympia and finished fifth.
Instead of defending his Arnold Classic title, ‘The Mutant’ stuck to the sidelines in favor of making improvements to his physique, most notably to his waistline. Having taken full advantage of his 2022 off-season with an appearance at the Pittsburgh Pro guest posing spectacle, it was evident Walker was a favorite at the Olympia contest, which was hosted in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Hadi Choopan would raise gold above his shoulders at 2022 Mr. Olympia, but Walker still left with his head held high after earning third place and the Olympia People’s Champ Award. In a quick turnaround, the 28-year-old made a splash at the 2023 Arnold Classic and despite his status as a favorite, he lost to Samson Dauda, which admittedly, was a difficult outcome for Walker to accept.
Nick Walker Targets 20-Week Prep But ’12-Week Mark, That’s When It’s Really Game Time’
Typically, Walker’s preps start at 20 weeks but says the intensity of his diet and training change at 16 weeks, and then intensifies again at the 12-week mark.
“I usually always start the prep 20 weeks out which is kind of just like getting in the groove. Okay, not necessarily strict exactly but this is kind of where we’re headed, 16 weeks out, we dry up a little more, and then you get to the 12-week mark, and that’s when it’s really game time.”
“My waist honestly can say I don’t think my waist has changed much at all,” Walker said regarding his progress. “I’m not overeating, I’m trying – I don’t feel the need to where I have to eat so much food to pack on size and I think that plays a big role. Like I said, we’re eating enough where it’s going to put me in a surplus to give me the energy I need to get stronger make improvements in the gym that need it but not just blow up everywhere. I don’t need that anymore. I think that it keeps the waist obviously a little tighter. It just helps.”
“I’d rather start prep and my weight barely budges… you know, because you know you’re in a good fuc**ng spot right now.”
Nick Walker said his strength is rising and his physique is growing. He specified that his food intake hasn’t drastically changed but they are reintroducing supplements and steroids.
“Off-season really just kind of officially started now, so just training, growing now,” said Walker.
“Now officially means what did you start incorporating the drugs, did you increase the food?” asked Guy Cisternino.
“Yeah, pretty much. Supplements got incorporated now, food is a little bit higher. Training volume is starting to increase a little bit for me. Weight, right now, I’m 280,” added Walker. “My protein doesn’t really change, like after the Arnold even after the Olympia when we did a quick little rebound, it’s 224 grams, which is like eight oucnes, it doesn’t change.
Honestly, since we did start the off-season now, incorporating supplements, the food hasn’t drastically changed from what it was prior because he kind of wants to see what does what and then we’ll start going up in the food. The food is already… you know I’m eating enough to where my recovery is fine, training performance is fine, strength is going up, food wasn’t necessarily the issue but I’m doing say average 5, 600 grams of carbs a day right now for me. My fats are around 80 [grams] he’s pretty big on fats right now. Strength is going up,” said Walker.
At his heaviest weight where he pushed over 300 pounds, Walker said it wasn’t that bad, but he didn’t feel great. This season, however, his focus is not on acquiring more muscle tissue.
“Even when I was 300 and that was pretty fuc**ng heavy for me, I felt like crap, but it wasn’t that bad,” said Walker. “I definitely had moments but it wasn’t that bad.”
Guy Cisternino and Walker hope to train with Dorian Yates in Canada in the next few weeks after Nick guest poses in Pittsburgh.
“We live Wednesday to Pittsburgh because I guess I’m guest posing at the Pittsburgh Pro. She’s going to fly back here, but I’m driving back down with them to Canada – it’s a 5-hour drive, I’m going to be there for like two weeks when I get there that following weekend it’s that Fit Log, or some big thing in Canada, a fit expo or something, we’ll stay another week and doing a lot of content for them [HD Muscle] and then I’ll come back.”
“I was thinking maybe you and Dorian and those guys were out there, I really wouldn’t want to drive, if I was going to go do it I’d take a quick flight over there,” said Cisternino. “I thought that would be pretty cool, me and you could link up and do that to [train and do content with Dorian Yates].”
Walker hasn’t stopped training even though he’s competed at two shows in the last six months. He recently demonstrated a grueling chest and triceps workout that involved seven different movements. Just last week, the Open star demolished a push day workout where he offered insight on how to maximize gains during the training session.
RELATED: Samir Bannout Tells Nick Walker to Hire Frank Zane as Posing Coach for 2023 Mr. Olympia Win: ‘Fix Front Lat Spread’
As one of the most popular and beloved Open bodybuilders in the league, fans would love to see Walker push the current champion Hadi Choopan at the next Mr. Olympia contest, which is slated to take place November 2-5 in Orlando, Florida.
Watch the full YouTube video below, courtesy of Nick Walker’s Channel:
Published: 9 May, 2023 | 11:46 AM EDT
Dexter Jackson Talks Recent Stem Cell Therapy, TRT Cycles & Protein Demands During Prime
Despite stepping away from the stage in 2020, Dexter Jackson still holds himself accountable in terms of fitness and nutrition. In a YouTube video, Jackson detailed his recent stem cell therapy session, his nutritional plan, and how he’s used testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) to preserve his health.
During his illustrious career lasting over two decades, Dexter Jackson was constantly pushing himself at shows and breaking records as an IFBB Pro. While competing actively, Jackson became a five-time Arnold Classic winner, a feat he made possible with conditioning, symmetry, and most importantly, consistency. His tenure saw him face a number of icons such as seven-time Mr. Olympia Phil Heath, Kai Greene, and four-time winner Jay Cutler.
In 2008, Jackson would reach the pinnacle of his career by defeating Cutler at Mr. Olympia. He wasn’t able to regain the prestigious title but competed for several years en route to his final contest, which came at the 2020 Mr. Olympia where he finished ninth. Jackson also holds the honor of having won the 2012 Masters Olympia competition.
While fans hoped for his eventual comeback, Jackson appeared in an Olympia TV interview and made it clear he’s not returning nor does he miss the sport. When asked why, Jackson explained that his long career was fueled by the idea that he would have no regrets when he finally stopped competing.
Dexter Jackson Says Neck Mobility Has Improved Since Stem Cell Therapy
After seeing doctors, Jackson discovered that he had four discs in his neck that displayed considerable arthritis. However, he had positive findings to report after receiving the stem cell treatment.
“Well, they say it takes anywhere from six weeks to three months before you start really benefitting from the stem cell. But when I went over there, got an MRI, they did an MRI on me to check everything, right, found that I had a couple of – four of the discs in my neck that need – that has some arthritis in it as well. I thought I slept on the pillow wrong two months ago and my neck has been bothering me, I mean, I could turn like probably about three-quarters of the way without feeling some pain.
Now I can turn it all away, I’m not saying it’s from the stem cells, it could have just been from rest or maybe it could be, who knows. Stem cells affect people differently, right? Just like anything else. So, it could have been from maybe a little stem cell treatment and rest.”
“All I know is I can turn [my neck] all the way now, I don’t feel nothing,” said Jackson. “Hopefully that I got treated, hopefully, it’s now going to prevent me – it’s supposed to, prevent me from getting that way, hopefully, I’ve caught it early. I got stem cell treatments in my neck and back. In my spine, I had arthritis there.”
Jackson Details Diet and Current/Past TRT Use: ‘I Like to be Cautious and Safe’
According to Jackson, he now consumes four or five ounces of protein daily. Conversely, at the height of his career, he ate six-to-eight ounces. Moreover, he reduced his meals from seven to three in retirement.
“Let’s show you how I’m living and eating nowadays,” said Jackson. Shrimp, sometimes steak, I don’t eat like I use to no more. Instead of eating eight ounces or six-to-eight ounces of beef or protein, you know, with my meals, I probably do now, about four to five ounces. Not six or seven meals a day no more, so probably about three meals a day with one of my shakes. And like I said, I don’t do two cups or rice or none of that stuff no more.”
During his tenure, ‘The Blade’ said it was common to consume approximately 50 grams of protein per meal.
“For 30 years, about 50 grams per meal [of protein] six or seven meals a day. 300 grams or maybe more. Protein has always been around that. I manipulated the carbs depending on off-season versus prep, contest prep right? You have to manipulate the carbs during contest preps so they would go down as low as 150 grams. But on my high days, I was probably eating 100 grams per meal, so 6, 7, 800 grams of carbs a day.”
He said he ate grits almost every morning while competing. He added that he switched to baked potatoes as a breakfast option because it helped avoid midsection bloat later in his tenure.
“I used to eat grits every day for breakfast. Even you get turned off of grits too much because of the mountain I had to eat and how long I had to eat it for. Now, I probably have a baked potato/grits for breakfast depending on how I feel that day. I started doing backed potatoes during the end of my career because it kept my stomach from getting bloated.”
Jackson shared that he started TRT two years ago and took an on/off approach. Generally, he preferred to use TRT for 12 weeks and then take a 12-week break.
“I started doing TRT about two years ago. I did it off and on for a little bit. I was even coming off. A lot of people think you stay on TRT or HRT or whatever, low test is what that means. You can stay on that forever and you don’t have to come off, but of course, me, I like to be cautious and safe and I would even come off of TRT and just be on it for like 12 weeks… come off that, be off for 12 more weeks. I did that for probably about a week but now I don’t even do that anymore.”
Jackson isn’t the only high-profile 2000s bodybuilder open about his TRT regimen. Bodybuilding legend Jay Cutler shared that he’s using TRT to transform his physique as part of a fit-for-50 challenge. He mentioned he plans to steer clear of more powerful compounds like trenbolone. In a separate interview, Cutler underlined that TRT is still a steroid despite some in the industry suggesting it’s not.
Given that Jackson has won every major title in the sport, he has nothing left to prove in bodybuilding. In retirement, he continues to give back to the community by sharing the wisdom he’s accrued following a long and successful career.
Watch the full video below on Dexter Jackson’s YouTube channel:
Published: 8 May, 2023 | 3:32 PM EDT
Rafael Brandao Hospitalized with Dengue Fever: ‘We Are Rooting for a Speedy Recovery’
Brazil’s Rafael Brandao is on the mend following a severe case of Dengue fever which required hospitalization. In a recent Instagram post, Brandao updated fans on his symptoms, recovery plan, and how long he might be staying under medical supervision.
Brandao is a top Men’s Open contender in the IFBB Pro League, who found success quickly against top-tier talent. Fans took notice of his symmetry, aesthetics, and balanced proportions following his bronze-earning performance at the 2020 Europa Pro Championships. Brandao was expected to compete on the Mr. Olympia stage that same year, but several health issues prevented him from the commitment.
One of Brandao’s best performances came in 2021 at the Romania Muscle Fest Pro. He took first place ahead of Samson Dauda and Quinton Eriya. Brandao mapped out a return to the 2022 Arnold Classic but eventually pulled out, citing health problems again. Nevertheless, he entered the Arnold Classic South America last year and earned gold plus an Olympia qualification.
At the 2022 Mr. Olympia, Brandao showcased an impressive package though some thought he lacked the size to contend with others in the first call-out. In the end, he took 10th place in his debut. Having yet to earn his 2023 Olympia qualification, Brandao will have until October 9 to secure an invite for this year’s event.
Rafael Brandao Offers Health Update After Being Hospitalized with Dengue Fever
Dengue is a disease that can infect humans through the bite of a mosquito carrying the virus. It mainly occurs in warm and humid regions of the world. Many people who contract dengue fever do not show any symptoms, but some may suffer from fever, headache, body aches, and nausea.
According to Brandao, he’s currently under doctor’s supervision and expects to be discharged in the next 3-5 days. Check out his post below:
“Good evening guys!
I’m a little absent here from the networks …
Unfortunately last weekend I had diarrhea and very strong pains in the abdomen, as I have a sensitive digestive system I was treating it as if it were a virus or food infection, until Thursday to Friday I had a lot of abdominal pain and came to the hospital, arriving here I was diagnosed with Dengue! They admitted me right away, as I was showing some symptoms that could worsen the condition to hemorrhagic dengue.
So I’m here hospitalized under medical supervision, probably staying here from 3 to 5 days or until everything is resolved!
Otherwise, I’m fine, being well taken care of and recovering to be able to go home soon. “
We are rooting for a speedy recovery” Rafael Brandao shared.
In light of Samson Dauda’s recent victory at the 2023 Arnold Classic, some believe the sport’s judges are shifting to favor aesthetics, beauty, and balance over size and conditioning. Terrick El Guindy, a popular promoter and IFBB judge believes the rise of aesthetic physiques is bad news for Nick Walker, who uses size, conditioning, and freak factor to overwhelm opponents on stage.
RELATED: Bodybuilders Flex Lewis and Rafael Brandao Join Hands For An Intense Back Workout
While he’ll likely need extra time for recovery, Rafael Brandao is optimistic about his bodybuilding future. Fans hope to see him back on stage in time to earn his 2023 Mr. Olympia invite as the contest is slated for November 2-5 in Orlando Florida.
Published: 8 May, 2023 | 1:17 PM EDT
Roelly Winklaar Rethinking Retirement: “I Never Thought I Would Have Ended It Like This”
Egberton Rulove “Roelly” Etienne-Winklaar‘s official retirement status has yet to be decided. In a recent The Menace Podcast, Winklaar, joined by Dennis James, Milos Sarcev, and Chris Cormier, discussed injuries, protein intake, and whether or not a comeback is on the horizon.
As a standout Men’s Open competitor, Winklaar quickly garnered attention in the IFBB Pro League with cartoonish muscle density, size, and pronounced triceps. The Curaçaoan/Dutch native has proven himself against elite talent, having earned and competed at Mr. Olympia a total of 10 times.
Fans of bodybuilding will be amazed but not surprised to hear that Roelly Winklaar has the most impressive and colossal triceps in bodybuilding history. Roelly’s triceps are so enormous that they redefine what is possible in bodybuilding.
What’s more, Roelly’s triceps are massive even when his arms are at rest. But he also knows how to show off his triceps with perfect posing. Whether he’s doing his signature side triceps pose or a cross-body arm pose, Roelly has unparalleled triceps that make him stand out as the best in the business. No one else even comes close to his impressive physique.
In 2018, Winklaar recorded his best Mr. Olympia performance, where he pushed the late Shawn Rhoden in the first call-out. He ultimately finished third but also received the Olympia People’s Champ Award. Well-respected for his active schedule, Winklaar’s last competition saw him reach ninth at the 2021 Romania Pro.
Questions surrounding Roelly’s retirement have lingered for some time. Last year, fans noticed he downsized his physique, which spurred rumors of his departure from the sport online. In addition, he helped fellow compeittor William Bonac prepare for 2022 Mr. Olympia.
Following a five-hour left shoulder rotator cuff surgery, Winklaar voiced that his future in bodybuilding was uncertain. He said the healing process would factor into his decision to make a comeback. And while he admits he may never build the physique he carried in his prime, Winklaar isn’t ready to close the door on his career.
Roelly Winklaar Hints at Comeback, Talks Injuries and Retirement
When explicitly asked if he was officially retired, Roelly Winklaar had the following to say:
“I can’t answer that no, [officially retired] I don’t want to retire. I don’t want to retire but the injuries that I have I think I can do better to be my best back on stage. I was fighting with myself to train so I can compete with myself even training to look good, but to be the best and what I want… I think it could be never anymore but,” Roelly Winklaar said.
“If I go back, I’ll be smarter and just control the muscle, the pump, and everything,” said Winklaar. “It was after Tampa, after my surgery, exactly. It was… I was training light weight but I was still feeling fit. It was after my surgery [where I decided to stop]. I was just trying to but it wasn’t going.”
Winklaar believes his heavy training likely caused the shoulder injury that has prevented him from working out and competing.
“I don’t know how to call it in English, rotator cuff, it’s done. It’s too much, third-grade [tear]. I tried food, I tried. No, it’s only from the gym from all the years of heavy training,” said Winklaar. “Yeah [I had surgery] that was in 2020 when I did it. I started training back again. And exactly all my last shows, 2021, I didn’t want to eat well. I don’t exactly know, that’s why I placed bad.”
According to Dennis James, ‘The Beast’ has nothing left to prove as a bodybuilder.
“Roelly doesn’t have anything to prove anymore, your name is cemented in the IFBB Pro League forever. People will talk about ‘The Beast’ for the next 100 years. You’ll never have to worry about that. Maybe, I would have loved to see was you getting off stage and telling your fans ‘This is it for me, I’m going to hang it up.’”
Winklaar would have preferred to leave the sport on his own accord instead of an injury forcing him to stop.
“Exactly, I’ve never had a chance to do that. I never thought that I would have ended it like this, you know,” says Winklaar.
Regarding his career’s best physique, the 45-year-old believes his greatest look came in 2018.
“The Arnold Classic Australia,” added Roelly.
During his tenure, Roelly was over 300 pounds but said pushing the limits of his size never helped at shows.
“The heaviest I have ever been was maybe 138 kilos (305 pounds),” said Winklaar. “I can’t go heavier because in that time, I was like heavier on stage. I was like 128 and nobody was liking my shape anymore. That’s why I don’t be heavier anymore.”
To maintain muscle mass, Winklaar discussed common proteins he consumed.
“I was eating in my prep I was always eating fish. No more, like two kilos, two kilos of chicken,” said Winklaar. “I don’t have protein [shakes] no, shakes. No shakes. With eggs [and chicken] for breakfast.”
This isn’t the first time Roelly Winklaar has reflected on his career. In a special appearance on William Bonac’s Gye Nyame podcast, Winklaar revealed that politics affected his placings at contests ‘a lot.’ However, he made it clear that his exit from bodybuilding was a direct result of his recent shoulder injury.
RELATED: Kevin Levrone on Winners Being Hand Picked in Bodybuilding: ‘It’s Business, I Didn’t Take It Personal’
While it doesn’t appear to be final, Roelly Winklaar is heavily considering a comeback. Given his abrupt departure, fans would love to see him back on stage.
You can watch the full video below from the Muscle and Fitness YouTube channel:
Published: 8 May, 2023 | 11:50 AM EDT