Tag: GI News
Branch Warren Defeated Reigning Champion Dexter Jackson In 2009 Olympia, Lost To Jay Cutler: ‘I Would Of Rather Got Third’
Jay Cutler recently sat down with Branch Warren, who he defeated at the 2009 Olympia.
It is the age-old question, would you rather lose a close game in the championship or get blown out early? Answers will be different depending on who you ask but in the case of Branch Warren, he would have rather come in third in the 2009 Olympia rather than runner-up to Jay Cutler.
On a recent episode of Cutler Cast, Warren decided to sit down with the man who defeated him at the Olympia in 2009. At this time, Cutler had already solidified himself as one of the best bodybuilders in the world and will be known as one of the best ever. He was crowned champion in 2006 and 2007 before Dexter Jackson dethroned him in 2008.
When Jackson was announced this, Warren was confident that he was going to win the show.
“I would of rather got third,” warren said.
You know, they called me, they called your name one, and I got second. It’s the worst though. Getting second place at Olympia is the worse. People saying, ‘oh that’s awesome’ and saying, ‘no that sucks. The second place in Mr. Olympia is the worst place in all of bodybuilding because you’re one small step from the grand prize but you didn’t make it.”
At the 2009 competition, Warren went through his emotions as the results were being announced.
“I remember they called Dexter in third place, and I’m like ‘oh shit I’m about to become Mr. Olympia. Then, I’m like I beat Mr. Olympia and I still haven’t won the show yet how does that happen.”
Branch Warren believes that he entered the 2009 Olympia at his absolute best. Jay Cutler agreed with this notion but also made the necessary improvements needed to get back on top.
During his reign, Cutler was a mass monster. This is when bodybuilding really started focusing on overall size, along with conditioning. This might have played a factor in the 2009 show.
“People say that because, first of all I was 242, and you were almost 260 at the show. Bigger is better in bodybuilding. You get two guys that are equal in conditioning, or close in conditioning, the bigger guy usually wins. That’s just the way it is.”
Branch Warren was an elite bodybuilder during his career and he was able to go toe-to-toe with the likes of Cutler and Jackson. The 2009 Olympia is one that will stick with him and also one that will be remembered by fans for the pure excitement of the top three competitors.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Zac Aynsley: The Best Drive In Bodybuilding
Zac Aynsley has a future in long drive after a 425-yard drive at Morpeth Golf Club.
Zac Aynsley is a British model and bodybuilder known for his massive biceps and incredible physique. He might be able to add his long drive on the golf course soon enough.
Aynsley was recently playing a round of golf at the Morpeth Golf Club in the United Kingdom when he decided to air it out with his driver. Aynsley stepped up to the fifth tee and sent a drive 425 yards to the green. Head greenskeeper John Scurfield, along with Aynsley’s team and three other witnesses, saw the incredible shot live.
Morpeth is a golf club that has been open since 1906. In 116 years, Aynsley is the only person to ever reach the green on this hole in one shot.
Aynsley used a 7.5 degree face on a 2x stiff shaft when he made the shot. Aynsley had a long-drive driver in his bag but decided to use a legal club. He took his shot from 25 yards closer than the competition tees, which are 450 yards out. Aynsley thought that this would be a bit out of range with the legal club that he used.
Zac Aynsley played golf growing up but it took a backseat to fitness once he began training. Now, he only plays casually for fun but it is clear that he has not lost his swing. Aynsley’s strength has translated into his golf game and this could lead to a new venture.
After seeing how far he can hit a ball now, Aynsley might contemplate taking up long drive. This would be a chance to take on some of the world’s best long-drive golfers to put on a show for the public.
“Everyone likes to see people hit a ball far but when you hit it over 400 yards, it’s just insane. It really is incredibly rare to see anyone hit a ball like this. It really is entertaining to see.”
Zac Aynsley grew up suffering from depression and anxiety. He was able to overcome issues within his diet and become successful in the fitness industry. The story of Aynsley is incredible and he has built a massive social media following because of it. Aynsley has appeared on many TV shows, along with magazine and book covers.
You can watch Zac Aynsley’s epic drive below:
[embedded content]
Aynsley has a plan to bring the world’s best long-drive champions to Morpeth Golf Club for a competition. This would put on a show for the public and see how they all stack up. This would be an entertaining event for both the fans and golfers.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Bodybuilding Legend Bill Pearl Recovering From Back Surgery After Scary Accident Involving Riding Mower
91-year-old Bill Pearl was in a dangerous accident when he flipped on his Craftsman riding mower.
Bodybuilding legend Bill Pearl enjoyed great success over the course of his career on stage. At 91 years old, Pearl remains active in retirement and enjoys doing daily tasks to keep living a healthy lifestyle. Recently, Pearl was working outside and had a scary accident that left his face down under his Craftmans riding mower.
A recent Facebook post shared a story of the accident. Pearl was working outside when his riding mower got caught in the grass. After backing it up, the mower flipped and landed on Pearl’s back. After help was called, the mower was removed from Pearl’s back without any further damage. At the hospital, X-Rays revealed that Pearl suffered fractures in his back and required surgery.
Bill Pearl has recovered from his operation and will be able to return home soon.
“The article I just posted was prepared by Bill on Tuesday morning. It had rained the night before, but the sun had come out, and he decided to go up the hill and mow around the barn. He was using the smaller Craftsman riding mower and it got stuck on a squirrel mound, so he put it in reverse to back off of it and it kind of jumped, and being close to an embankment, rolled over the edge and came to rest against the barn, on top of Bill’s back.”
Bill Pearl began competing on stage in 1952 and enjoyed great success early on. Over the course of his career, Pearl won multiple Mr. Universe titles, along with Mr. America and Mr. USA. During his final Mr. Universe victory, Pearl defeated the likes of Frank Zane and Sergio Oliva.
Pearl retired from competition in 1971 but continued to make goes posting appearances until 1989. He has also written many books on fitness and continued his passion and love for bodybuilding even in retirement.
“after x-Rays a cat scan and an mri, a neurologist determined that he had a compression fracture of his t-10 vertebrae, among other things.
he was scheduled for surgery the next day. he endured six hours of very complicated surgery and praise the lord, he is resting un comfortably in the hospital, and should be home in a few days.
it may be awhile ’til he can sit at a computer again, but he’ll be back !!! we have many friends and family to thank fo their prayers and good wishes, we are so grateful.”
Bill Pearl continues to live an active life at 91 years old and nothing is going to change that. he is expected to recover and will be able to do so in the comforts of his own home.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Iain Valliere And Brett Wilkin Share Crushing Leg Workout
Iain Valliere and Brett Wilkin got together for what was a massive leg workout.
If you are not a fan of leg day, you have to take a look at some of the workouts that Open bodybuilders put themselves through. Iain Valliere and Brett Wilkin recently joined coach Matt Jansen at Revive Gym in Stuart, FL for a crushing quad workout that is destined to build size.
Valliere is more proven in Men’s Open at the moment. Wilkin has transitioned from Men’s 212 by putting on the necessary size needed to compete. At 27 years old, Wilkin is one of the most-promising up-and-comers that has built a great following. This workout took place in Florida, where Wilkin plans to move in the near future.
Leg Extensions
Leg extensions began the workout. This is a good exercise to begin leg day because it can pump blood into the quads to prepare for the rest of the workout. Brett Wilkin and Iain Valliere worked up to the heaviest top set. they began completing 10-12 reps before resting 15 seconds then going until failure. After this, they rested 15 more seconds before another set to failure.
Inner Thigh Squeezes
Inner thigh squeezes are also important to do early to get a good stretch in the legs. Wilkin and Valliere did not spend much time on this machine but made sure to put in work. Just a few quick sets working adductors was needed before moving onto some bigger weight.
Leg Press
Brett Wilkin and Iain Valliere then moved onto the Cyber leg press machine. They stressed the importance of flexing your knees to get the best stretch possible in the quads. They added 10-11 plates on each side for 20 reps during the top set. After performing a few sets, the bodybuilders continued to the next workout.
“Quad day! You know we made it hurt!@brett_wilkin”
Hack Squats
The weight used performing hack squats is not as heavy as that of a regular squat or leg press. Iain Valliere and Brett Wilkin paused at the bottom of the rep to gain control before exploding up. This adds a new dynamic to hack squats rather than performing a continuous motion.
Bodyweight Walking Lunges
The final workout of the day was bodyweight walking lunges. This is an exercise that can build strength in the quads but is also used frequently as a stretch. The bodybuilders performed these lunes with bodyweight to finish the day.
Both Iain Valliere and Brett Wilkin have high hopes for the bodybuilding season in 2022. After looking at some of the work they have done in the gym, they will certainly be competition ready next time out.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Generation Iron Network Expands Media Brand To Central Asia
Introducing Generation Iron Central Asia.
Generation Iron Network is excited to announce the expansion of our media brand coverage further across the globe. Generation Iron Central Asia will be a hub for news and entertainment content focused towards our central asian audience – including countries such as Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. This expansion continues our network’s mission statement of bringing bodybuilding coverage and entertainment across the globe.
With the same kind of production quality, original videos, and news breaks that you come to expect from the Generation Iron Network – GI Central Asia will feature exclusive interviews, contest coverage, share workout guides & tips, and produce and distribute local programming for digital, mobile and linear platforms.
This expansion comes after the successful launch of our other international local language editions in 2018 including GI Brasil, GI Russia, and GI Persia. Creating an ever growing interconnected digital media network, the New York City based media company focused on high quality media content, bodybuilding news, and entertainment is reaching many millions of enthusiast. Setting a new standard for bodybuilding as a sport and how we engage with it.
You can subscribe on Instagram right here.
Bodybuilding both as a sport and a lifestyle is a truly international pursuit. The Generation Iron Network reaches over millions of individuals globally. Our specialized sister networks are formed to bring more localized content to our global audience and are run by passionate and local members of the community.
This announcement also comes after the success of the first ever Generation Iron Personal Training Facility – which has recently opened up to expanding into the franchise marketplace. With the Generation Iron brand recognized across the globe – passionate gym owners and entrepreneurs may not apply to become part of the GI movement and give back to the bodybuilding community with our proven and personalized personal training facility system.
For more information, visit our Generation Iron Personal Training Facility franchising page right here.
About The Generation Iron Network
Hardcore Truth: Olympia Is Telling Shaun Clarida He Can Only Compete In One Division
[embedded content]
Johnnie O. Jackson connected with Shaun Clarida – who told him that currently he is being asked to only compete in one division at the Olympia.
Late last year, Shaun Clarida made headlines by winning a Men’s Open bodybuilding competition at the Legion Sports Fest Pro. With his win, he is now qualified to compete in both Men’s 212 and Men’s Open. Since then, Clarida has signaled that he desires to possibly compete in both divisions at Olympia 2022. As this is a rare occurance, he planned to speak further with the Olympia team to figure out his options. Since then we have heard little on this story. In our latest episode of Hardcore Truth, Johnnie O. Jackson gets an update from Shaun Clarida – learning that as of now, the Olympia is only letting him choose one division.
Every once in a while, there are rare moments that occur in the world of pro bodybuilding that require a deeper glance at the league rule books. Shaun Clarida qualifying for the Mr. Olympia in two divisions is one such occasion. It led both Clarida himself and fans to wonder if he could compete in two divisions at the Olympia concurrently. Seemingly, there would be no reason not to – other than his own personal preference to not have to compete double the amount in one weekend.
However, Johnnie O. Jackson reconnected with Shaun Clarida this week to get an update on his Men’s 212 vs Men’s Open Olympia plans. From what he was told by Clarida himself, it seems the Olympia is making him choose just one division to compete in. While no details were given as to why this is the case – it seems as if perhaps the double qualification might conflict with some lesser known guidelines for the Olympia weekend. Jackson also reached out directly to Dan Soloman for comment – who has yet to respond since the time of this writing and recording.
If we’re speculating, it seems that this might fall under some sort of technicality. Similar to the small uproar that transpired after it was revealed that Flex Lewis was not technically qualified for the Men’s Open Mr. Olympia this year. According to the Olympia team earlier this year, Lewis would either need to directly qualify or receive a special invite. As of now, he has yet to officially receive such an invite – though it seems inevitable this will happen.
However, Johnnie O. Jackson thinks that whatever guideline that is requiring Shaun Clarida to choose one division is foolish. Jackson points out that Clarida is not asking for a favor or a handout. He fair and square qualified for two different divisions. In Jackson’s mind, the only reason he should not be allowed to compete in both is if both events happened at the same exact time. But we know from past years that this is not the case.
Now is it a good idea for Shaun Clarida to split his energy into two divisions? That’s up for personal debate. But if Clarida desires to do so – he should not be held back since he earned both with his own effort. Jackson points out that in the past when the Master Olympia still existed (which might return, by the way), a bodybuilder was allowed to compete in both the Masters division and the Men’s Open division at the Olympia. So why can’t Clarida do the same?
Ultimately, things may change. While Shaun Clarida confirms that he is currently being asked by the Olympia to only choose one division – an exception might later be made as we get closer to the show. Much like how we assume Flex Lewis will eventually receive his official special invite. Since Dan Soloman has yet to respond back to Johnnie O. Jackson, we don’t have a definitive statement on the subject other than Clarida’s word. Time will tell how this unfolds.
Until then, what side of the decision to you fall on? Do you think it’s fair to only let Shaun Clarida compete in one Olympia division? Let us know in the video comments or on our social media channels! You can watch Johnnie O. Jackson’s full comments in the latest episode of Hardcore Truth above!
Mateusz Kieliszkowski Has Withdrawn From 2022 World’s Strongest Man
Mateusz Kieliszkowski was forced to miss the 2022 Arnold Strongman Classic with a leg injury. Just one month after the competition, the strongman has announced that he will miss the 2022 World’s Strongest Man competition because of the same injury.
Kieliszkowski explains the reasoning for his withdrawal in an Instagram post. He is recovering from his leg injury and training with heavy weight is not the best way to heal. Kieliszkowski revealed that he will continue to train with light weights in hopes that he can rehab the injury correctly.
“Why i am withdrawn from @theworldsstrongestman ?
Still feel some pain and not comfortable in my leg after injury What i got before Arnold.Heavy training isnt good method to fix and recovery for body.
I have some power but not enough to compete at the highest level in the world.The best and the smartest solution for me is to withdraw from the competition.I dont want risk because dont need bigger injury than i got.Also, I don’t want to be beaten by everyone because that’s not my style – My goal is only 1st place.
I made many mistakes. I have to be smarter this time because I want my career to be longer.
Now I just need time to heal my body and be 100% healthy and hungry for Victory.
I will continue training but with very light weights.Also i will use stem cells to help heal and will work more with a physical therapist.Hope it Will bring good results.
No pressure or stress. Just need Time and be patient.
Success will come one day
greetings,” Mateusz Kieliszkowski wrote.
Mateusz Kieliszkowski continues to speak on his desire to win. He does not want to enter a competition just to show face when he is not 100%. Now, he will work to get back to the top so he can enter his next competition at full strength.
As of now, there is no replacement for Kieliszkowski at the 2022 World’s Strongest Man. The official Instagram page of the event said that there will be updates at a later date.
Mateusz Kieliszkowski began competing in 2014 at the age of 21. He has 10 victories, including five Poland’s Strongest Man titles. He has been apart of the World’s Strongest Man four times and finished second in 2019.
Kieliszkowski was one of the competitors who would have been a contender this time around but he is focused on his health moving forward. This means he will be even more motivated once he can fully heal from this leg injury.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Julius Maddox Shows Full Ability As Powerlifter, Sets New PR With 820-Pound Squat
Julius Maddox is known as the king of bench press but has plenty of strength to go around.
Julius Maddox has taken over bench press in recent years. He currently holds the all-time world record in the lift and has been working to get that number even higher. This does not mean that Maddox neglects other lifts, quite the opposite actually. On social media, Maddox has stressed the importance of other lifts that can help strengthen body parts to help on the bench. This time, Maddox took to the squat rack to set a new PR with an 820-pound lift.
Maddox shared the massive PR on Instagram. He approached the Kabuki Strength transformer bar loaded up with 820 pounds. With a classic in “Soul Survivor” by Young Jeezy and Akon coming out of the speakers, Maddox made the lift look easy and even said the same at the end of the video.
This was the second lift as Maddox completed a 775-pound lift prior. Because of the speed that this lift went up, Maddox decided to throw some more weight on. He did not use any equipment or gear to aid in this lift making it raw.
“Huge PR 775lb/ 820lb x 1 with@kabukistrength Transformer Bar.. Followed up with 820 which was sloppy but was a pR”
Julius Maddox has not participated in events other than bench press since his competition career began. He has competed in 17 sanctioned competitions, all on the bench. In fact, Maddox does not even share a lot of content in other lifts on social media. Interestingly enough, this squat video shows that Maddox could have a shot at totaling one of the heaviest weights in powerlifting if he competed in all three lifts.
Maddox has been on the chase for 800 pounds on bench press. He currently holds the record of 355kg (782.6lb) and is looking to become the first person to lift 800 pounds officially. As of now, Danial Zamani has accomplished that feat but it came in a training session making it unofficial.
Julius Maddox has attempted this lift before but has yet to do it successfully. It is clear that he is training to reach the number and could plan on it soon. Maddox might not compete in competition but he can setup a chance to reach the 800-pound mark separately. At 34 years old, it is unknown if Maddox would venture out from bench press in a sanctioned event but it would be fascinating to see the total number he could reach.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Chris Bumstead Attacks Leg Day With 585-Pound Squats For Six Reps
Chris Bumstead continues to show his strength and did so with massive squats during leg day.
Chris Bumstead is already at the top of Classic Physique bodybuilding and it is clear that he is not going anywhere. The reigning three-time Olympia champion has been hitting the gym had since his return and it showed in a recent social media post on leg day. Bumstead shared videos including massive 585-pound squats for six reps.
Bumstead has competed just once a year since climbing to the top of the sport. He has mastered the offseason and right now, Bumstead is in the bulking phase to add that muscle mass necessary. He is back to full training and is in full swing of his diet plan. Bumstead was forced to take some time off early in the year after contracting COVID-19. Just a couple months later, there is clearly no effects.
“Just want to be big and strong when I grow up. Please and thank you??”
Chris Bumstead shared two videos in the post. The first was of squats, which he hit on the Smith machine without shoes on. Bumstead controlled the weight and lowered himself to the ground slowly before exploding up. The next workout was Bulgarian split squats, which Bumstead performed with two dumbbells. He completed 11 reps before reaching failure on the 12th.
These workouts along with his diet plan, which consists of 5,000 calories during bulking, are the reason that Bumstead is difficult to take down on stage. He is often seen training with Iain Valliere, who competes in Men’s Open bodybuilding. This is something that Bumstead hinted at in a recent interview.
Chris Bumstead discussed the possibility of competing in Open bodybuilding before he retires. It is unlikely that he makes a permanent switch but he might appear in a show or two before calling it a career.
Wherever Bumstead is, it is likely that he is going to find success. He has built great motivation and has a massive following because of his physique. Bumstead continues to showcase his elite strength and workout plans fo others to follow. It will be interesting to see how his preparation continues over the course of the offseason.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Ronnie Coleman Reacts To Absolutely Insane Lifts By Bradley Martyn
Ronnie Coleman took a break from lifting and decided to react to some of Bradley Martyn’s feats.
Ronnie Coleman is one of the best bodybuilders of all-time and is still very much involved in the sport. Not only does he continue to follow bodybuilding but he is active in the gym and provides insight to other lifters. Coleman has also started some entertainment content reacting to other huge lifts by strength athletes.
On his YouTube page, Coleman was reacting to some eye-opening lifts by Bradley Martyn, who has become a social media sensation showcasing wild lifts of all sorts. This is the video that Coleman is commenting on and it features five minutes of some of Martyn’s best.
Early in the video, Martyn is seen doing an incline bench press with a dumbbell in one hand. In the other hand, he is lifting a woman by the lifting belt around her waist. He is able to control both and keep his reps steady.
“Don’t hurt that girl. Don’t hurt her. Woah, woah. Yeah, I, that’s pretty impressive right there,” Coleman said.
Other lifts that Bradley Martyn showcased was a flat bench press but instead of dumbbells, he used two barbells that were 225 pounds. Many lifts are unorthodox but Martyn also mixes in some normal lifts with massive amounts of weight, including barbell shrugs and deadlifts.
Ronnie Coleman explains how these are all lifts that show strength and coordination. He expresses many times over the course of the video that these lifts are impressive and should not be attempted by many. This includes a 405-pound bench press for reps in the middle of the street.
“Who did this? Put this in the middle of the street now? In the rain, too. Benching 405. I’d never do that one.”
Ronnie Coleman ends the video saying that they can get together for a session but he will not attempt the crazy lifts. Coleman has remained active in his retirement and still has plenty of muscle mass.
“That coordinated strength right there. A lot of that stuff he doing right there, he’s the only one who can do it….Maybe we can get together when I come out there and we can talk about it because there’s no way I can do any of that stuff.”
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.