Former Mr. Olympia Phil Heath continues to stack up wins in retirement. In a recent Instagram reel, the former seven-time Mr. Olympia revealed that he will be inducted into the International Sports Hall of Fame in 2024 following his contributions to bodybuilding.
En route to building a lifetime legacy, Heath proved himself to be among the best in the world, pushing top names in the sport like Jay Cutler, Dexter Jackson, Mamdouh ‘Big Ramy’ Elssbiay, and Brandon Curry. Heath was celebrated for his freaky muscle fullness, striations, and overall conditioning. His last contest saw him take third at the Mr. Olympia show in 2020, won by Big Ramy.
The International Sports Hall of Fame (ISHOF) is a prestigious organization that recognizes and honors the most exceptional and influential athletes and sports figures in history. This non-profit organization was founded in 2012 by Dr. Robert M. Goldman.
The ISHOF’s advisory board selects five to seven inductees each year based on their achievements and impact in their respective sports. In addition, the ISHOF induction ceremonies are held annually at the Arnold Sports Festival, the second-largest and most popular fitness event in the world behind only Mr. Olympia.
International Sports Hall of Fame Will Honor Bodybuilding Legend Phil Heath in 2024
Heath shared the phone call on video and was blown away after hearing he would join five other Mr. Olympia winners, which included Arnold Schwarzenegger, Franco Columbu, Lee Haney, Ronnie Coleman, and Jay Cutler.
“Holy smokes,” said Phil Heath.
“You’ll be joining five other Mr. Olympia winners which include Arnold Schwarzenegger, Franco Columbu, Lee Haney, Ronnie Coleman, and Jay Culter. You will be our sixth Mr. Olympia inducted,” shared the Senior Vice President of the International Sports Hall of Fame.
“Outstanding man, wow, thank you so much,” replied Heath.
“You will forever be enshrined at the University of Texas Art Center. On behalf of our international Hall of Fame and Doctor Goldman congratulations my friend.
Despite stepping away from the stage, Heath’s love for the sport fuels him still, whether it’s a training session or his duties as a commentator at the recent 2022 Mr. Olympia show. Even though Heath has done it all and tied with Schwarzenegger in Sandow trophies, he continues to tease a possible comeback. Last month, ‘The Gift’ made it clear he could return to a contest outside of the Mr. Olympia.
Heath has taken considerable measures to preserve his physique while away from competition. One of the last times fans heard from him, he talked about recovery medications he’s using to stay healthy but emphasized that they were going to put him ‘in the best position to win.’ While his comeback is uncertain, fans can look forward to seeing Heath accept the honor center stage in 2024.
Aside from Heath, it was revealed in February that strongman legend Hafthor Bjornsson was inducted into the ISHOF as part of the 2023 class. He is widely considered one of the most prolific strongmen to ever compete and still holds the official deadlift record of 1,104 pounds.
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Heath continues to add to his mantle in retirement. Even if he never comes back to compete, his legacy will live on as one of the most impressive of this generation.