Tag: nEWS
Jay Cutler Talks About Competing vs Gustavo Badell & Longevity: “All My Markers Are Good”
Bodybuilding legend Jay Cutler has watched the sport evolve over the years. He’s also seen athletes taken away from this world far too soon. In a recent JayCutlerTV YouTube appearance, Cutler updated fans on his health markers and looked back on competing against the late Gustavo Badell.
During the 2000s, Jay Cutler established himself as an all-time great with capped shoulders, a huge chest, and an ironclad lower body. He alone holds the distinction of having dethroned the eight-time Mr. Olympia kingpin Ronnie Coleman in 2006. While building his legacy, Cutler pushed himself against the IFBB Pro League’s cream of the crop, which included names like Kevin Levrone, Dexter Jackson, and Kai Greene.
Over the last three years, many fans worry that bodybuilders are dying at an alarming rate. This trend was brought into the limelight after the untimely deaths of Shawn Rhoden and George Peterson in 2021. Their passings prompted fans and athletes alike to question whether steroid use is killing off talent. Retired pros like Seth Feroce have taken to YouTube and pleaded with younger athletes to use gear responsibly or risk death.
Last year, worries about bodybuilding safety were highlighted again as former Arnold Classic champion Cedric McMillan died at just 44 years old. In 2023, these matters have continued to dominate online discussions. Within a few weeks, three bodybuilders passed away. Popular influencer Jo Lindner died at 30 years old, Catalin Stefanescu at 30, and most recently, 2000s standout Gustavo Badell passed away at 50 years old.
Jay Cutler Pays Respects to Late Gustavo Badell, Looks Back on Facing Him at 2005 & 2005 Mr. Olympia
Cutler was sad to see a competitor as fierce as Badell go. He mentioned that Badell came to his surprise party after Coleman was dethroned in 2006.
“Sad news yesterday. So Gustavo [Badell] which we’ll insert this video in here, he jumped on me for the Mr. Olympia. he came to my party after, remember. The surprise party. Yeah, he lived in Vegas. He came on really hard for ’04 ’05 Olympia he was third to me and Ronnie.
Well, he won the Challenge Round, I think he was a little disappointed in those years because I think he knew that he had moved up so well and he was very fierce, you noticed he was a super fierce competitor. Yeah, I mean he had young kids, moved to Vegas, bought a house, he was training at Eastern Serene I think he trained at Flamingo here and there. He was a hard-working bodybuilder man. We might have trained together, I think. A little bit. We stayed in touch,” said Jay Cutler.
Cutler Motivated By Phil Clahar, Says ‘Blood Panels Are Good’ at 49 Years Old
Cutler shared that he was inspired by Clahar’s victory at the 2023 Orlando Pro at 49 years old.
“I see people like Phil Clahar, who just won at 49, the Orlando show, it gives you a lot of motivation but at the same time, life takes over. You realize that you’re on the back end of your years rather than the forward end right?
Meaning, I’ll be 50. I’m probably not going to live to 100. Honestly, you don’t fear it but there’s always – I can tell you at my age, there’s always that… man how many years do you have right? Especially when you hear these kinds of things when friends or acquaintances or media talks about people that had.” said Cutler.
Cutler who is on the verge of turning 50 in August, explained that his blood panels and markers are all in good standing.
“You go to the doctor, you go, you get your checkups, my blood panels are good. All my markers are good but listen, not to say things can change drastically super fast you know. You just got to be aware of things and do what you can. Angie always says enjoy every moment every day.”
Late last year, Cutler announced that he was transforming his physique as part of a ‘Fit-for-50’ challenge. While he has no plans of returning to a contest stage, Cutler hopes to get in the best shape of his life since retiring in 2013. Months ago, he targeted 6-8% body fat and said his goal was to add size and lean down at the same time by keeping his metabolism guessing.
Fans were blown away by Cutler’s transformation when he displayed his build at the seven-week mark. Some body parts aren’t as full as Cutler would like, but he plans to change that in the coming weeks with more food and additional training.
While the sport comes with considerable risk, Cutler hopes to continue prioritizing longevity in retirement, even while navigating uncharted territory in his latest ‘Fit-for-50’ challenge.
READ MORE:
You can watch the full video from the JayCutlerTV YouTube channel below:
Published: 18 July, 2023 | 9:59 PM EDT
Ronnie Coleman Puts YouTuber Jesse James West Through His Most Intense Chest Workout Yet
Bodybuilding legend Ronnie Coleman left an indelible mark on the sport with his reign of dominance in the Men’s Open division. Besides his monstrous physique, he was renowned for his insane feats of strength in the training room. In a recent video uploaded on YouTube, Coleman teamed up with fitness influencer Jesse James West to put him through his most intense chest workout yet.
Ronnie Coleman first gained attention for his freaky muscle mass, size, and conditioning as a Men’s Open competitor in the late 90s. He secured his maiden Sandow trophy by beating the likes of Flex Wheeler, Chris Cormier, and Lee Priest at the 1998 Mr. Olympia. He proved to be a dominant champion who defended the title successfully and retired with eight Mr. Olympia titles under his belt.
Coleman separated himself from the pack with his insanely heavy lifts in training. He pulled off massive feats, such as the 800-lb squat for two reps and the 2,300-lb leg press. ‘The King’ carried his passion for bodybuilding after stepping away from professional competition.
He recently backed former 212 Olympia champion Derek Lunsford to dethrone 2022 Mr. Olympia Hadi Choopan at the upcoming edition of the event later this year. He also ranked reigning four-time Classic Physique Olympia winner Chris Bumstead’s physique as the best he’s ever seen three months ago.
Ronnie Coleman praised Lunsford as his favorite bodybuilder of the modern era last month. Along with Lunsford, he extended his support for the 2023 Arnold Classic winner Samson Dauda as one of his two top two contenders.
Coleman picked up several injuries over the years due to his intense training methods. He’s gotten stem cell therapy and reported positive results in terms of pain management. He shared that the numbness in his arms and legs went away and expected his nerve damage to heal in about two years. Coleman revealed his mobility hadn’t improved much from the stem cell treatment over three weeks ago. He reported some of his muscles were not being stimulated and expressed concerns about atrophy in his lower body.
Legendary bodybuilder Jay Cutler, who developed a fierce onstage rivalry with Coleman, praised his former foe for his contributions to the Open class. The four-time Mr. Olympia believes no competitor has been able to reach the gold standard Coleman set for the division since his departure.
Fitness sensation Jesse James West joined forces with Coleman for a training session earlier this year. Coleman was under the impression he’d motivate West to record some new PRs but West pranked him by using fake weights to score 700-lb squats and more massive lifts. West pulled the same trick on iconic Strongman Eddie Hall when he crushed a 675-lb deadlift using fake weights two months ago.
Ronnie Coleman Puts Jesse James West Through His Most Intense Chest Workout
In a recent YouTube video, Ronnie Coleman mentored Jesse James West through his most intense chest workout five days out of West’s bodybuilding contest.
“Today, we’re going to see if I could survive his most intense chest workout,” said West. “What’s the secret to a big chest?”
“Heavy lifting,” said Coleman.
The chest workout included:
Flat Bench Press
Incline Bench Press/Barbell
Dumbbell Chest Press
Dumbbell Chest Fly
Seated dumbbell curls
They trained at Coleman’s famous gym where he’s trained for over 33 years. Coleman recalled the 800-lb deadlift he recorded as the most memorable lift from his days of competition.
Coleman revealed he’d train lighter one week out from a contest. He’d use both barbells and dumbbells, reserving a day for each. He listed the flat bench as his favorite chest exercise. He trains for 45 minutes every day. Also, Coleman carb-depleted and carb-ed up for Mr. Olympia contests and ate 600 grams of protein a day.
West is gearing up for a bodybuilding contest. He partnered with four-time Men’s Physique Olympia champion Jeremy Buendia for a brutal shoulders workout to get ready for the show last week. Meanwhile, Ronnie Coleman announced his partnership with Panatta Gym Equipment to build a unique gym earlier this week.
Being under a week away from his bodybuilding show, West couldn’t have asked for a better mentor than Coleman to get him ready for contest day.
RELATED: Ronnie Coleman Criticizes His ‘Horrible’ Olympia-Winning Physique in Throwback Photo with Jay Cutler
You can watch the full video below:
Published: 18 July, 2023 | 6:37 PM EDT
Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson Shares How He Builds His Massive Back, “Lots of Blood Flow”
Hollywood superstar Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson prides himself on being the hardest worker in the room. He has maintained impeccable personal fitness and never fails to work out despite having a packed schedule. In a recent post made on Instagram, Johnson shared a technique he values for maximizing muscle growth on the cable row.
The Rock rose to prominence for his athletic talents and huge build as a professional wrestler under the WWF/WWE banner in the 1990s. He grew close to fans with his brash persona and charismatic personality during the Attitude Era of the promotion. His trash-talking gimmick turned him into arguably the most popular star of his time with 10 world championships under his belt.
While still a wrestler, Johnson got the chance to make his debut on the silver screen in The Mummy Returns (2001). He decided to make a full-time switch to acting following the role. Johnson applied the same work ethic and discipline he developed as an athlete to find success in Hollywood, becoming the highest-paid actor of the year multiple times.
What’s incredible about The Rock is that he took his fitness game to the next level in his later years. There has been speculation about whether Johnson takes steroids given his massive build although he has denied the allegations on numerous occasions. UFC color commentator Joe Rogan urged The Rock to admit he took gear following the exposé of internet sensation Liver King last December. Strongman icon Eddie Hall defended Johnson for the alleged use and suspected that he was likely on TRT (testosterone replacement therapy) earlier this year.
Johnson regularly motivates fans with his insane workout videos. He detailed a brutal upper body training session targeting chest and back muscles with only supersets four months ago. The routine was focused on building muscle and attaining a ‘super pump.’ Then, he gave fans a look into his highly-effective lower body workout where he utilized supersets on leg exercises for extra muscle burn. The clip was recorded at his famous home gym aptly named ‘Iron Paradise.’
Beyond the workouts, The Rock is renowned for indulging in some epic cheat meals. Liver King took inspiration from the hulking actor recently and challenged himself to demolish a massive feast made up of ‘sub-primal’ foods like pizza, fast food, and an array of desserts.
The Rock showed off his insane consistency with a demanding late-night workout three months ago. He smashed past the back session using a brutal variation of supersets. In addition, Johnson offered tips on performing the Smith machine incline press weeks ago. He stressed the importance of completing the movement slowly and in a controlled manner with 3-second negatives for the best results.
The Rock Shares Technique to Maximize Muscle Growth on the Cable Row
In a recent Instagram post, Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson shared his techniques for maximizing muscle growth on the cable row.
“Late Friday night. Long week. Lotta stuff. My kinda therapy that’s cheaper than a shrink. Training back & chest. All supersets. High volume,” wrote The Rock. “Lots of [blood] flow. For cable row, I try to really stretch and get full range of motion at the bottom with a squeeze pause at the top. I’m tall and my muscular structure is elongated so I do my best to really engage that legit full range of motion. Makes a huge difference + you don’t have to kill yourself using heavy weight to get positive results. I’ll finish tonight’s sesh with hypers, push-ups and crunches – to work my angry 3 1/2 abs.“
The Rock’s back workout technique is all about maximizing the stretch and challenging the muscles. It’s a great way to promote back growth and create more time-under-tension. Just remember, this technique is more advanced, so start simple and progress gradually. Keep pushing and see the gains!
Johnson follows his regular routine with hyperextensions, pushups, and crunches. He then adds supplementary core work to complete his workout.
The Rock unveiled a heavy abs workout designed to rebuild strength in his core after an abdomen injury as of late. He followed that up with a taxing high-volume chest and back workout. Then, he offered an intense bicep-burning finisher workout routine to get jacked arms.
RELATED: The Rock Shares Jacked ‘Red One’ Workout Photo With JK Simmons
His latest offering will surely motivate many fans to try out cable rows with a full range of motion. Despite getting older, The Rock continues to inspire by pushing as hard as possible inside the gym.
Published: 18 July, 2023 | 5:01 PM EDT
2023 North America’s Strongest Man Results — Trey Mitchell Wins
The sport of Strongman has evolved all around the world, but the North America continent is arguably the most advanced. This continent possesses dozens of incredible Strongmen and everyone was wondering who the greatest is. So, 12 of the greatest athletes gathered at the 2023 North America’s Strongest Man competition on July 15-16. After eight difficult events, Trey Mitchell from the USA came out victorious.
2023 North America’s Strongest Man Leaderboards
Trey Mitchell — 76.5 points
Lucas Hatton — 71 points
Wesley Derwinsky — 71 points
Maxime Boudreault — 64 points
Frédérick Rhéaume — 63 points
Gabriel Rhéaume — 62 points
Joey Lavallée — 56.5 points
Sean Hayes — 41.5 points
Spenser Remick — 39.5 points
Andrew Montoya — 28 points
Ben Court — 19 points
Mitch Hughes — 19 points
Related: 2022 Shaw Classic Results and Recap — Trey Mitchell Defends His Title
Trey Mitchell’s Performance at the 2023 North America’s Strongest Man
Trey Mitchell opened up his performance at the 2023 North America’s Strongest Man with three consecutive event wins. This immediately put him in a great position for the remainder of the competition. He then wrapped up day one with a fourth-place finish in the Truck Pull event and came into day two with an 8.5-point advantage over the second place.
However, immediately on the start of day two Trey nullified everything he fought for on day one. This is because he finished in 12th place in the Wheelbarrow Carry event and lost the overall lead. Still, Trey Mitchell managed to win the next two events and regain his lead. This meant that he only needed to put in a solid effort in the final event to win the competition. The last event was the Power Stairs, and while his exact time is unknown, Trey placed sixth in that event, which turned out to be more than enough for the title.
Trey Mitchell now turns his focus towards the 2023 Shaw Classic which will take place on August 19-20. He is the defending and 2x champion, so he is rightfully hoping to claim the title for the third consecutive year. He has an even bigger incentive this time since Brian Shaw will crown this year’s champion as ‘Strongest Man On Earth.
Max Log Lift: 200 kilograms (Tied-First)
Medley: 34.38 s (First-Place)
Atlas Stones: 5 in 40.33 s (First-Place)
Truck Pull: 52.70 s (Fourth-Place)
Wheelbarrow Carry: Exact Result Unknown (12th-Place)
Deadlift For Reps: 11 reps (First-Place)
Viking Press: 16 reps (First-Place)
Power Stairs: Exact Result Unknown (Sixth-Place)
Related: Trey Mitchell & Gabi Dixson Set Two New World Records Each At 2023 Rogue Record Breakers
Event Results
Max Log Lift
Trey Mitchell — 200 kilograms (Tied-First)
Lucas Hatton — 200 kilograms (Tied-First)
Wesley Derwinsky — 193 kilograms (Tied-Third)
Maxime Boudreault — 193 kilograms (Tied-Third)
Spenser Remick — 193 kilograms (Tied-Third)
Gabriel Rhéaume — 184 kilograms (Tied-Sixth)
Frédérick Rhéaume — 166 kilograms (Tied-Sixth)
Joey Lavallée — 166 kilograms (Tied-Sixth)
Andrew Montoya — 166 kilograms (Tied-Sixth)
Ben Court — 166 kilograms (Tied-Sixth)
Sean Hayes — No lift
Mitch Hughes — No lift
Fingal’s Fingers & Yoke Medley
Trey Mitchell — 34.38 seconds
Wesley Derwinsky — 37.32 seconds
Gabriel Rhéaume — 37.50 seconds
Lucas Hatton — 38.89 seconds
Frédérick Rhéaume — 44.5 seconds
Spenser Remick — 45 seconds
Sean Hayes — Unknown (Seventh-Place)
Joey Lavallée — 59.20 seconds
Maxime Boudreault — 87 seconds
Andrew Montoya — Unknown (Third-Place)
Ben Court — Unknown (Second-Place)
Mitch Hughes — Unknown (First-Place)
Atlas Stones
Trey Mitchell — 5 in 40.33 s
Frédérick Rhéaume — 4 in 37.51 s
Wesley Derwinsky — 4 in 38.98 s
Joey Lavallée — 4 in 46.85 s
Sean Hayes — 4 in 48.15 s
Maxime Boudreault — 4 in 51.30 s
Lucas Hatton — 4 in 53.18 s
Spenser Remick — 4 in 68.5 s
Mitch Hughes — 3 in 63.31 s
Gabriel Rhéaume — 3 in 64.5 s
Andrew Montoya — 1 in 33 s
Ben Court — No lift
Truck Pull
Lucas Hatton — 40.16 seconds
Maxime Boudreault — 49.28 seconds
Joey Lavallée — 49.47 seconds
Trey Mitchell — 52.70 seconds
Frédérick Rhéaume — 57.11 seconds
Gabriel Rhéaume — 62.42 seconds
Wesley Derwinsky — Unknown (Seventh-Place)
Spenser Remick — Unknown (Eight-Place)
Andrew Montoya — Unknown (Ninth-Place)
Ben Court — Unknown (Tenth-Place)
Sean Hayes — Unknown (Eleventh-Place)
Mitch Hughes — Unknown (Twelfth-Place)
Wheelbarrow Carry
No results have been revealed, but the placings were. So, the athletes are named below in the other in which they finished.
Wesley Derwinsky
Maxime Boudreault
Joey Lavallée
Gabriel Rhéaume
Frédérick Rhéaume
Lucas Hatton
Andrew Montoya
Spenser Remick
Sean Hayes
Ben Court
Mitch Hughes
Trey Mitchell
Car Deadlift
Trey Mitchell — 11 reps
Frédérick Rhéaume — 8 reps
Gabriel Rhéaume — 7 reps (Tied-Third)
Sean Hayes — 7 reps (Tied-Third)
Wesley Derwinsky — 6 reps
Ben Court — 5 reps
Joey Lavallée — 4 reps (Tied-Sixth)
Lucas Hatton — 4 reps (Tied-Sixth)
Maxime Boudreault — No reps
Spenser Remick — No reps
Andrew Montoya — No reps
Mitch Hughes — No reps
Viking Press
Trey Mitchell — 16 reps
Lucas Hatton — 15 reps
Maxime Boudreault — 12 reps
Gabriel Rhéaume — 11 reps (Tied-Fourth)
Andrew Montoya — 11 reps (Tied-Fourth)
Spenser Remick — 10 reps (Tied-Sixth)
Frédérick Rhéaume — 10 reps (Tied-Sixth)
Sean Hayes — 7 reps
Wesley Derwinsky — 6 reps
Joey Lavallée — 5 reps (Tied-Tenth)
Ben Court — 5 reps (Tied-Tenth)
Mitch Hughes — No reps
Power Stairs
The names are listed in the order of their placing. However, the exact results are not available.
Maxime Boudreault
Wesley Derwinsky
Joey Lavallée
Lucas Hatton
Gabriel Rhéaume
Trey Mitchell
Frédérick Rhéaume
Mitch Hughes
Sean Hayes
Spenser Remick
Andrew Montoya
Ben Court
Related: Trey Mitchell Sets A New Thor’s Hammer Record Of 60.72 Seconds At 2022 Rogue Record Breakers
The 2023 North America’s Strongest Man competition was fiercely contested, reflecting the remarkable growth of Strongman in this continent. However, amongst the 12 athletes, Trey Mitchell was convincingly the greatest one. He recently also set a new Viking Press World Record. So, it is evident that he is currently in an incredible shape, perhaps even the greatest of his career so far.
Published: 18 July, 2023 | 3:28 PM EDT
“I Never Thought He’d Accomplish What He’s Accomplishing” Chris Aceto Praises Nick Walker’s Potential
Preparations for the upcoming 2023 Olympia contest in November are heating up. Contenders in the Open class are aiming to bring their best to dethrone the reigning Mr. Olympia Hadi Choopan. In a recent Mutant and the Mouth Podcast, Nick Walker and bodybuilding coach Chris Aceto discussed his potential of winning the coveted crown later this year.
Walker entered the IFBB Pro League brimming with potential, having laid claim to his first Pro title at the 2021 New York Pro. From there, he wasted no time in performing against elite talent. He stormed Columbus, Ohio for his debut on the Arnold Classic stage. ‘The Mutant’ even predicted beforehand that he would leave the town victorious, and that’s exactly what happened.
At Walker’s first Olympia competition, he shocked the world with a fifth-place finish. His combination of freakish muscle mass and conditioning set him apart from his peers. Despite encountering obstacles last year (like temporarily splitting from his trainer Matt Jansen), Walker still shined in his sophomore Olympia appearance.
In the 2022 Olympia finals, Walker faced off with Hadi Choopan and Derek Lunsford – two men trained by bodybuilding guru Hany Rambod. In the end, Walker settled for bronze and the Olympia People’s Champ Award. As for Choopan, he secured his first Sandow trophy against Lunsford and became the only Iranian-born Mr. Olympia titleholder.
Chris Aceto has served as a long-time bodybuilding coach to several high-profile names in the sport. He’s worked with Mike Francois, Jay Cutler, Paul DeMayo, and helps shape Men’s Open pros of today, like Andrew Jacked. In his latest undertaking, Aceto took a closer look at Nick Walker and the physique he’s bringing to 2023 Olympia.
Chris Aceto Talks Nick Walker’s 2023 Olympia Potential, Derek Lunsford’s Flow & Hadi Choopan’s Muscle Maturity
Aceto admits he was ‘100% wrong’ about Nick Walker’s potential as a Men’s Open bodybuilder.
“I think for me the problem is when people talk about me it’s no big deal, right? People are like, ‘Oh you look like a fridge, you got a wide waist.’ No one is like, ‘True,’ right? The moment I say something that has some validity to it, everybody just loses their fucking mind,” said Walker.
“They say, ‘Stay in your lane,’” Aceto shared.
“Exactly, what people don’t understand, I respect all of them. I’m friends with all of them but I’m – you asked me my opinion, I’m going to give you what I truthfully think. Just like I would expect people to be honest about what they truthfully think about my physique. Chris, Chris has said multiple times I’ll never be good I believe on many podcasts,” said Walker.
“I said that over and over. This is the most improved terrible body in the history of the sport, I’m serious. You know what, how many times on the radio have I said, I’m wrong, I was only 100% wrong in terms of Nick Walker. I mean, I wasn’t 40% wrong. Yeah, you look crazy,” Aceto explained.
While Aceto has been critical of Walker’s structure in the past, he was blown away by Nick’s accomplishments in such a short period of time. Aceto mentioned that moving forward, Walker should always be in title discussions for 2023 Olympia.
“When I post my updates tomorrow, that’s what I’m going to write as my caption, the most improved terrible physique,” said Walker.
“You know what, obviously, Nick, you’ve accomplished more I think than the collective expectation has been for Nick Walker. You know what, most, the hardest thing – the best way to get to your peers – which is as important as the judge’s respect, is for people to say, ‘Ah Nick sucks. Oh, wait, he beat me.’ Then he did it again. He beat so and so and beat so and so. It shuts people up. It makes people go like wow I was really wrong on Nick Walker. I never thought he’d accomplish what he’s accomplishing,” Aceto shared.
Chris also discussed Derek Lunsford’s flow and Hadi Choopan’s game-changing muscle maturity.
“That’s why when people say, now people say, Olympia, when your name is not mentioned I’m like, what? Even when I came from Kamal’s right. I said impossible lowest is third. Lowest is third. I said the lowest was third. I put all my money on Derek and Hadi would just surprise me like I didn’t know what to do with him, you know what I mean? He’s [Choopan] hard to handicap because he has a lot of strengths. He has a lot of tools. Obviously, I wouldn’t say he – this is not a knock against anyone, he does not have a flow of Derek even though he has more density than Derek and more maturity than Derek, so there’s a contrast.”
“Last year, he [Hadi Choopan] was either going to be first or third,” added Aceto.
One of the last times fans heard from Chris Aceto, he took issue with the 2023 Arnold Classic scorecards. Like many others, Aceto thought Walker could have won in Ohio. He shared that Walker would have defeated Samson Dauda in a ‘one versus one’ comparison but never got the opportunity. Other veterans of the sport such as Samir Bannout also thought Walker won the show soundly.
With so many contenders hungry for Choopan’s title, this year’s Olympia show will be packed with action. Walker has been open about his game plan and is currently growing a huge chest and quads to balance out his appearance. Given the way the wind is blowing, Walker is confident either he or Derek Lunsford will win the next Mr. Olympia title.
RELATED: Nick Walker on 2023 Olympia: ‘Samson Dauda’s Back is Shit, Big Ramy Is Done & Andrew Jacked Won’t Make Top 5’
Watch the full video from the Mutant and the Mouth Podcast YouTube channel below:
Published: 18 July, 2023 | 3:33 PM EDT
Shaun Clarida ‘Coming in Bigger’ for 2023 Olympia, Starts Prep Early + Talks Lifting Heavy Weight
Shaun Clarida is gearing up for his 2023 Olympia prep as the show approaches in less than four months. In a recent Muscular Development interview, Clarida updated fans on his progress and said he’s prioritizing hamstring and chest growth in the coming weeks.
Reigning two-time 212 Olympia Shaun Clarida is a monster of the division. He built his name in the league with hard work, grit, and throwing around ridiculously heavy weight. While he may not possess a towering structure, he makes up for it with cartoonish muscle density and dry conditioning. Given his strength and tenacity inside the gym, some in the sport have labeled Shaun a ‘Mini Ronnie Coleman.’
Following years of chasing his dream of becoming an Olympia champion, Clarida achieved his goal in 2020 when he dethroned Kamal Elgargni. Heavy is the head that wears the crown, as was the case with Shaun, who eventually lost his title a year later to IFBB Pro League star, Derek Lunsford. Ultimately, Lunsford moved to the Open division while Clarida mapped out a plan to retrieve his title.
Last December, Clarida reinstated himself as the 212 Olympia to become a two-time champion. Instead of resting his physique, Clarida jumped into the recent 2023 Arnold Classic in the Open. At the event, he proved why he’s nicknamed ‘The Giant Killer.’ Clarida would end the show in fifth place but pushed several mass monsters including the former two-time Mr. Olympia Mamdouh ‘Big Ramy’ Elssbiay.
Shaun Clarida Growing Chest, Hamstrings for 2023 Olympia, Plans to Bring as Much Muscle ‘As Possible’
Clarida said he started his prep early, which allows him to ‘pull back’ later if need be.
“Yeah, 18 weeks as of tomorrow, Friday. I always like to start prep early, for me personally. I like to clean things up start a little cardio that way toward the end I can pull back and let my body rest a little bit and feed before the show,” said Shaun Clarida. “Yeah, no I would never do that [prep for 8-10 weeks].”
Unlike in the past, Clarida reached his heaviest weight in the off-season this year at 215 pounds.
“Yeah, it’s – I mean I got up to like 215. It’s pretty crazy. I didn’t really believe I could because obviously dealing with the big move, the baby, and everything, I felt like my body would probably retract a little bit or I wouldn’t be able to train as much as I have. Luckily, I’ve been down here and able to train every single day. Been getting my cardio in and my food in so everything has been good.”
“I definitely feel like this year’s Olympia I’m coming in a little bit bigger but the most important thing for me is the conditioning. I don’t necessarily look to put on weight but I’m always a big fan of trying to improve certain areas like my chest and my hamstrings. And while I do that, I get stronger after those movements and your body just grows, naturally just grows.
It’s been a great off-season thus far. I feel like I’m going to grow into the show. For me personally, I’ve always been someone who gets stronger into prep. Sometimes I have to be mindful when I’m in prep just to make sure I’m safe and don’t get injured. But I’m going to keep pushing hard and keeping pushing strong and hold as much muscle size going into this show as possible.”
Clarida Talks Gym Pins for Plate-Loaded Training and Lifting Heavy
Clarida shared that he uses a gym pin to add additional weights to machines that don’t meet his requirements.
“It’s mainly, I mean he makes different versions, obviously, pin loaded. So if it’s a machine with a stack of like 200, like right now, my abductor machine the most you can put on it is 200, so I have to put the gym pin on there to add another 25 plate on there.
Mostly I use that for that hammer incline press that can’t handle a certain amount of weights or the leg press is a big one for me. Like a lot of leg presses have really small hooks to them. So, I bring that in and kind of extend that and add more weight to it. You know, mostly plate-loaded stuff, yeah.”
According to Clarida, his body craves heavy weight despite his age and the subsequent risk factor.
“Yeah [I’m still getting stronger] honestly I have. Despite my age, I just think maybe because this is how I’ve been doing it since the beginning. My body just craves the heavy weight. People give me shit for it,” added Clarida.
Clarida explained that his prep has been stress-free because he created a home gym in his garage, where he trains cardio, abs, glutes, and abductors.
“This prep has been really just stress-free. I actually put a gym in the garage. We have a four-car garage so I took two of the bays and called my man Steve at Super Gym and ordered eight pieces of equipment. Typically I do my morning cardio at the gym and have to drive there and do the whole session. Anything I do in the morning as far as my cardio, my abs, my glutes, my abductors, I do them now at the house.”
Even though he prefers lifting heavy, Shaun favors Smith machine movements because they provide his body with more stability.
“It’s scary sometimes [the heavy weight]. It is pretty scary. But I always say it’s either me or the machine and it’s not going to win today. I don’t get under some weight and think about how it’s going to hurt me if I do this or that. You just have to get under it and think you’re going to get your reps 8-10 or whatever you want and walk away and be done with it.”
“More so [I use Smith machine movements] for me because I’m now training by myself. If I still had a training partner I would still do an incline barbell but definitely not a flat bench. But because I train by myself, it’s a lot safer. Two, I’ve always liked the Smith machine because I don’t have to utilize my stabilizers. I can just find the right path and go up and down.”
In March, Clarida boldly claimed that he wanted to surpass former 212 Olympia Flex Lewis’ record of seven titles – the most in history. In an appearance on Hany Rambod’s The Truth Podcast, Clarida made it clear that was his primary goal as well as continuing to test his resolve in the Men’s Open.
Clarida and Rambod also joined hands for a YouTube video where they hammered through a brutal FST-7 chest workout. The goal was to maximize muscle growth and Clarida’s chest showed as much by the time they wrapped up the training session.
Fans have already deemed Shaun Clarida a massive favorite heading into November. Should he once again claim the 212 Olympia title, Clarida will be one step closer to breaking Lewis’ all-time win record on the sport’s biggest stage.
RELATED: Bodybuilder Shaun Clarida Crushes A Demanding Chest And Delts Workout
Watch the full video from the Muscular Development YouTube channel below:
Published: 18 July, 2023 | 11:34 AM EDT
Brian Shaw Announces That The Winner of 2023 Shaw Classic Will Be Crowned as ‘Strongest Man On Earth’
Brian Shaw is nearing the end of his Strongman career as a competitor since his final professional appearance will be at the 2023 Shaw Classic on August 19-20. However, seeing how Brian was always focused on improving the sport, he still plans to continue, but from the position of an organizer instead of a competitor. So, wanting to make the Shaw Classic the greatest competition in the world, Brian has acquired the title of ‘Strongest Man On Earth’.
The Shaw Classic will take place for the fourth time this year and will be the first time the winner will be called the ‘Strongest Man On Earth’. Each year the competition gets better, mostly because Brian makes sure to put on as great of a competition as possible. So, he has now added another factor which will lure the greatest Strongman athletes currently to compete in his competition, as the title of ‘Strongest Man On Earth’ will be awarded to the winner.
This title was trademarked by Paul Ohl, who organized a competition called Fortissimus in 2008 and 2009. It was one of the greatest competitions at the time, and the winner earned the title of the ‘Strongest Man On Earth’. However, Paul has now decided to pass down the torch to Brian Shaw, as Paul considers him one of the greatest Strongman champions in history alongside Zydrunas Savickas.
“EXCITED TO ANNOUNCE THAT THE STRONGEST MAN ON EARTH WILL OFFICIALLY BE CROWNED AT @theshawclassic IN 2023!
In 2023 The Shaw Classic will carry on the torch that has been passed from Paul Ohl and Fortissimus and now crown The Strongest Man on Earth.”
Watch a snippet of Brian Shaw & Paul Ohl’s conversation here:
Related: 2023 Shaw Classic Updates: New Competitor, Arm Wrestling Matches & More Revealed By Brian Shaw
Paul Ohl revealed that he was a fan of Brian Shaw even when he just started the sport. He recognized the greatness in Brian before anyone else and is now delighted to pass down the torch.
“At that time, there was a little hesitation… In January of 2008, I saw you compete, and I saw the first two events. I said this man — that superman should I say — will be a part of the history of the Strongman.” said Paul Ohl.
Apart from the title of The Strongest Man On Earth, Paul Ohl has also given Brian Shaw the blessing to use one of his iconic events — The Louis Cyr Stone. It is a natural stone weighing 533 pounds that is meant to be picked up. However, the events for this year’s Shaw Classic have already been revealed, meaning the Louis Cyr Stone will not be one of them. Therefore, it is likely that this event will be featured in future editions of the show, as Brian made some promising comments regarding it.
Paul then revealed why he trademarked the title of The Strongest Man On Earth and got into the committee for the competition.
“I said I am going to be on that committee for one reason. Athletes are bleeding and sweating 100%, while organizers are looking at the athletes and putting 100% in their pockets. So, I am going to be on that committee to make a bet on the biggest prize money ever.”
Paul Ohl has recognized that Brian Shaw also cares the most about the competitors instead of his own profit. So, he was more than glad to give him a trademark title.
“I am so damn proud that Brian Shaw, at the end of his career, will be the man who will take it over and will carry the torch further. I am sure you will do that. You are the man with the ethics, you are the man with the track record, and you are the man with the passion and knowledge about Strongman amongst all of them.”
Brian Shaw also had a word to say about how much this means to him and what he plans to do with his competition in the future.
“Being able to work into a position like this and have somebody like you endorse the Shaw Classic and now the Shaw Classic being able to legitimately crown the Strongest Man On Earth, is just… I don’t even have the words to say how much that means to me,” said Shaw.
Watch the full conversation here:
Related: Mateusz Kieliszkowski Withdraws From 2023 Shaw Classic; Gavin Bilton Makes His Debut
The lineup and the events for the 2023 Shaw Classic have been revealed, but now the athletes have a much bigger incentive to perform well. There is no doubt that those taking part will now push themselves to their absolute limits to claim the prestigious title, which makes the Shaw Classic arguably the greatest Strongman competition in the world.
Published: 18 July, 2023 | 10:10 AM EDT
74-YO Rudy Kadlub Sets USPA Drug Tested World Records In Squat & Deadlift While Injured
1
USPA
2022-12-03
Oregon State Championships
Masters 70-74
1257.7
353.64
Location
USA-OR
Competition
Oregon State Championships
Division
Masters 70-74
Age
73
Equipment
Wraps
Class
220.5
Weight
216.9
Squat
402.3
435.4
457.5
457.5
Bench
242.5
270.1
286.6
286.6
Deadlift
474
490.5
513.7
513.7
1
USPA
2022-05-27
Drug Tested National Championships
Masters 70-74
303.1
85.12
Location
USA-GA
Competition
Drug Tested National Championships
Division
Masters 70-74
Age
73
Equipment
Raw
Class
220.5
Weight
217.6
Bench
275.6
303.1
-319.7
303.1
GLP
63.38
1
USPA
2022-05-27
Drug Tested National Championships
Masters 70-74
606.3
170.24
Location
USA-GA
Competition
Drug Tested National Championships
Division
Masters 70-74
Age
73
Equipment
Wraps
Class
220.5
Weight
217.6
Squat
137.8
137.8
Bench
275.6
303.1
-319.7
303.1
Deadlift
165.3
165.3
1
IPL
2021-11-04
Drug Tested World Championship
Masters 70-74
1274.3
358.94
Location
USA-CA
Competition
Drug Tested World Championship
Division
Masters 70-74
Age
72
Equipment
Wraps
Class
220.5
Weight
216.1
Squat
402.3
431
451.9
451.9
Bench
281.1
303.1
309.7
314.2
314.2
Deadlift
474
502.7
512.6
512.6
1
USPA
2021-07-12
Drug Tested National Championships
Masters 70-74
1234.6
347.76
Location
USA-CA
Competition
Drug Tested National Championships
Division
Masters 70-74
Age
72
Equipment
Wraps
Class
220.5
Weight
216.1
Squat
402.3
-429.9
429.9
429.9
Bench
270.1
292.1
303.1
308.6
308.6
Deadlift
474
501.6
-518.1
501.6
1
USPA
2021-07-12
Drug Tested National Championships
Masters 70-74
501.6
141.28
Location
USA-CA
Competition
Drug Tested National Championships
Division
Masters 70-74
Age
72
Equipment
Raw
Class
220.5
Weight
216.1
Deadlift
474
501.6
-518.1
501.6
1
USPA
2021-07-12
Drug Tested National Championships
Masters 70-74
303.1
85.39
Location
USA-CA
Competition
Drug Tested National Championships
Division
Masters 70-74
Age
72
Equipment
Raw
Class
220.5
Weight
216.1
Bench
270.1
292.1
303.1
308.6
308.6
GLP
63.6
1
USPA
2020-11-06
Drug Tested North American Championships
Masters 70-74
518.1
143.91
Location
USA-CA
Competition
Drug Tested North American Championships
Division
Masters 70-74
Age
71
Equipment
Raw
Class
242.5
Weight
223.1
Deadlift
474
501.6
518.1
518.1
1
USPA
2020-11-06
Drug Tested North American Championships
Masters 70-74
1251.1
347.52
Location
USA-CA
Competition
Drug Tested North American Championships
Division
Masters 70-74
Age
71
Equipment
Wraps
Class
242.5
Weight
223.1
Squat
-396.8
429.9
-451.9
429.9
Bench
-270.1
275.6
303.1
303.1
Deadlift
474
501.6
518.1
518.1
1
USPA
2020-11-06
Drug Tested North American Championships
Masters 70-74
303.1
84.2
Location
USA-CA
Competition
Drug Tested North American Championships
Division
Masters 70-74
Age
71
Equipment
Raw
Class
242.5
Weight
223.1
Bench
-270.1
275.6
303.1
303.1
GLP
62.64
1
USPA
2020-09-04
Drug Tested National Championships
Masters 70-74
1174
332.06
Location
USA-OH
Competition
Drug Tested National Championships
Division
Masters 70-74
Age
71
Equipment
Wraps
Class
220.5
Weight
214.1
Squat
-303.1
347.2
402.3
402.3
Bench
253.5
281.1
297.6
297.6
Deadlift
435.4
474
-501.6
474
1
IPL
2019-10-24
Drug Tested World Championships
Masters 70-74
1229.1
362.11
Location
Ireland
Competition
Drug Tested World Championships
Division
Masters 70-74
Age
70
Equipment
Wraps
Class
198.4
Weight
196.7
Squat
407.9
-429.9
429.9
429.9
Bench
264.6
292.1
-303.1
292.1
Deadlift
451.9
485
507.1
507.1
1
USPA
2019-05-11
Masters Cup
Masters 70-74
1185
348.73
Location
USA-TX
Competition
Masters Cup
Division
Masters 70-74
Age
70
Equipment
Wraps
Class
198.4
Weight
197.1
Squat
424.4
Bench
286.6
Deadlift
474
1
IPL
2018-11-08
Drug Tested World Championships
Masters 65-69
1262.1
356.34
Location
USA-NV
Competition
Drug Tested World Championships
Division
Masters 65-69
Age
69
Equipment
Wraps
Class
220.5
Weight
215
Squat
451.9
Bench
303.1
Deadlift
518.1
1
IPL
2018-05-12
Masters Cup
Masters 65-69
1234.6
347.6
Location
USA-TX
Competition
Masters Cup
Division
Masters 65-69
Age
69
Equipment
Wraps
Class
220.5
Weight
216.3
Squat
440.9
Bench
292.1
Deadlift
501.6
1
IPL
2017-11-02
Worlds
Masters 65-69
1201.5
336.78
Location
USA-NV
Competition
Worlds
Division
Masters 65-69
Age
68
Equipment
Wraps
Class
220.5
Weight
218.5
Squat
429.9
Bench
286.6
Deadlift
485
1
IPL
2017-05-13
Masters Cup
Masters 65-69
1091.3
307.96
Location
USA-TX
Competition
Masters Cup
Division
Masters 65-69
Age
68
Equipment
Wraps
Class
220.5
Weight
215.2
Squat
418.9
Bench
253.5
Deadlift
418.9
1
GPC
2015-09-13
World Championships
M6
1460.6
408.49
Location
USA-NV
Competition
World Championships
Division
M6
Age
66
Equipment
Multi-ply
Class
220.5
Weight
219.6
Squat
501.6
551.2
-600.8
551.2
Bench
248
435.4
457.5
457.5
Deadlift
451.9
-534.6
451.9
1
GPC
2015-09-13
World Championships
M6
1460.6
408.49
Location
USA-NV
Competition
World Championships
Division
M6
Age
66
Equipment
Multi-ply
Class
220.5
Weight
219.6
Squat
501.6
551.2
-600.8
551.2
Bench
248
435.4
457.5
457.5
Deadlift
451.9
-534.6
451.9
1
SPF
2015-02-28
Myrtle Beach Classic
Masters 65-69
1375
385.15
Location
USA-SC
Competition
Myrtle Beach Classic
Division
Masters 65-69
Age
65
Equipment
Multi-ply
Class
220.5
Weight
218.8
Squat
505
Bench
435
Deadlift
435
1
APF
2015-01-10
Winter Classic
M_MR_6_APF
1207
339.38
Location
USA-OR
Competition
Winter Classic
Division
M_MR_6_APF
Age
65
Equipment
Raw
Class
220.5
Weight
216.9
Squat
402.3
Bench
303.1
Deadlift
501.6
GLP
69.7
1
WPC
2013-08-29
Amateur Worlds
M_MEM_5_AAPF
1344.8
378.13
Location
USA-ID
Competition
Amateur Worlds
Division
M_MEM_5_AAPF
Age
64
Equipment
Multi-ply
Class
220.5
Weight
216.9
Squat
540.1
Bench
242.5
Deadlift
562.2
1
WPC
2013-08-29
Amateur Worlds
M_MEM_5_AAPF
242.5
68.19
Location
USA-ID
Competition
Amateur Worlds
Division
M_MEM_5_AAPF
Age
64
Equipment
Multi-ply
Class
220.5
Weight
216.9
Bench
242.5
1
APF
2013-04-26
Amateur National Powerlifting Championships
M_MEM_5_AAPF
1603.9
455.58
Location
USA-MI
Competition
Amateur National Powerlifting Championships
Division
M_MEM_5_AAPF
Age
64
Equipment
Multi-ply
Class
220.5
Weight
212.1
Squat
507.1
562.2
606.3
606.3
Bench
242.5
440.9
463
463
Deadlift
485
534.6
-556.7
534.6
1
APA
2013-03-23
Spring Championships
Masters 60-64
1537.7
432.76
Location
USA-OR
Competition
Spring Championships
Division
Masters 60-64
Age
~63.5
Equipment
Multi-ply
Class
220.5
Weight
216.5
Squat
451.9
507.1
556.7
556.7
Bench
242.5
446.4
-468.5
446.4
Deadlift
474
512.6
534.6
534.6
DQ
WPC
2012-11-06
World Championships
M_MEM_5_WPC
Location
USA-NV
Competition
World Championships
Division
M_MEM_5_WPC
Age
63
Equipment
Multi-ply
Class
198.4
Weight
198.4
Squat
-551.2
-551.2
-551.2
1
APF
2012-05-26
Masters Teen & Junior Nationals
M_MEM_5_APF
1493.6
439.56
Location
USA-LA
Competition
Masters Teen & Junior Nationals
Division
M_MEM_5_APF
Age
63
Equipment
Multi-ply
Class
198.4
Weight
197.1
Squat
551.2
Bench
429.9
Deadlift
512.6
1
APF
2011-03-09
EDC Spring Meet
M_MEM_5_APF
1598.3
458.23
Location
USA-OR
Competition
EDC Spring Meet
Division
M_MEM_5_APF
Age
61
Equipment
Multi-ply
Class
220.5
Weight
207.9
Squat
-600.8
600.8
-622.8
600.8
Bench
-451.9
-457.5
457.5
457.5
Deadlift
496
523.6
540.1
540.1
1
APF
2011-03-09
EDC Spring Meet
M_MEM_5_AAPF
1598.3
458.23
Location
USA-OR
Competition
EDC Spring Meet
Division
M_MEM_5_AAPF
Age
61
Equipment
Multi-ply
Class
220.5
Weight
207.9
Squat
-600.8
600.8
-622.8
600.8
Bench
-451.9
-457.5
457.5
457.5
Deadlift
496
523.6
540.1
540.1
7
APF
2010-04-18
Amateur & Raw Nationals
M_OEM_APF
1427.5
418.67
Location
USA-MI
Competition
Amateur & Raw Nationals
Division
M_OEM_APF
Age
61
Equipment
Multi-ply
Class
198.4
Weight
198.4
Squat
551.2
Bench
413.4
Deadlift
463
1
APF
2009-08-22
Summer Power Challenge
M_MEM_5_AAPF
1537.7
451.76
Location
USA-OR
Competition
Summer Power Challenge
Division
M_MEM_5_AAPF
Age
60
Equipment
Multi-ply
Class
198.4
Weight
197.8
Squat
-578.7
578.7
611.8
611.8
Bench
385.8
-407.9
407.9
407.9
Deadlift
479.5
518.1
-534.6
518.1
1
APF
2009-03-14
Spring Powerlifting Challenge
M_MEM_4_AAPF
1471.6
432.07
Location
USA-OR
Competition
Spring Powerlifting Challenge
Division
M_MEM_4_AAPF
Age
59
Equipment
Multi-ply
Class
198.4
Weight
198
Squat
-501.6
523.6
551.2
551.2
Bench
242.5
363.8
385.8
402.3
402.3
Deadlift
463
523.6
534.6
534.6
1
WABDL
2008-11-12
World Championships
Masters 54-60
369.3
108.31
Location
USA-NV
Competition
World Championships
Division
Masters 54-60
Age
59
Equipment
Single-ply
Class
198.4
Weight
198.4
Bench
369.3
GLP
56.5
1
WABDL
2008-11-12
World Championships
Masters 54-60
507.1
148.72
Location
USA-NV
Competition
World Championships
Division
Masters 54-60
Age
59
Equipment
Single-ply
Class
198.4
Weight
198.4
Deadlift
507.1
1
APA
2008-04-12
Northwest Open Iron War
Masters 50-59
1305
382.92
Location
USA-WA
Competition
Northwest Open Iron War
Division
Masters 50-59
Age
59
Equipment
Multi-ply
Class
198.4
Weight
198.2
Squat
435
455
465
465
Bench
-335
335
-345
335
Deadlift
475
505
-510
505
3
WABDL
2007-11-15
World Championships
Masters 54-60
507.1
148.72
Location
USA-CA
Competition
World Championships
Division
Masters 54-60
Age
58
Equipment
Single-ply
Class
198.4
Weight
198.4
Deadlift
507.1
2
WABDL
2007-11-15
World Championships
Masters 54-60
336.2
98.61
Location
USA-CA
Competition
World Championships
Division
Masters 54-60
Age
58
Equipment
Single-ply
Class
198.4
Weight
198.4
Bench
336.2
GLP
51.44
1
APA
2007-08-18
Oregon Open Championships
Masters 50-59
1303
382.56
Location
USA-OR
Competition
Oregon Open Championships
Division
Masters 50-59
Age
58
Equipment
Multi-ply
Class
198.4
Weight
198
Squat
424.4
451.9
-463
451.9
Bench
315
335
350
350
Deadlift
451
476
501
501
5
WABDL
2006-11-15
World Championships
Masters 54-60
424.4
124.47
Location
USA-NV
Competition
World Championships
Division
Masters 54-60
Age
57
Equipment
Single-ply
Class
198.4
Weight
198.4
Deadlift
424.4
5
WABDL
2006-11-15
World Championships
Masters 54-60
303.1
88.91
Location
USA-NV
Competition
World Championships
Division
Masters 54-60
Age
57
Equipment
Multi-ply
Class
198.4
Weight
198.4
Bench
303.1
Ronnie Coleman Teams Up w/ Panatta Equipment to Build The ‘World’s Greatest Gym’
Bodybuilding legend Ronnie Coleman is determined to create his own personal mecca of weightlifting. In a recent YouTube video, Coleman revealed that he teamed up with Panatta Gym Equipment to create a one-of-a-kind gym.
“We have finally arrived at the world’s famous Panatta city. I’m here to introduce Panatta sports to the United States, yeah buddy. Let’s go do this y’all,” Ronnie Coleman shared.
For nearly a decade, Ronnie Coleman sat atop the Mr. Olympia throne as the undisputed king of the sport. He amazed fans and intimidated rivals with his unparalleled size, strength, and willpower. Coleman suffered in the training room day after day to earn a total of eight Mr. Olympia titles. In 2006, he was dethroned by his long-time rival Jay Cutler.
But Coleman was far more than a bodybuilder. His strength was on another level, and that’s something he showcased often at the gym. He lifted weights that would make most people faint. Coleman is famous for his astonishing 800-pound squat for two reps as well as his iconic 2,300-pound leg press. That strength inside the gym gave him a near-invincible aura during his reign.
Even today, Jay Cutler, the man who succeeded Coleman, admits no one has ever come close to Ronnie’s prime physique. He believes bodybuilders today lack the size and conditioning that made Coleman such a nightmare to deal with on stage. While he struggles to walk without assistance, Coleman’s love for working out still consumes his life. And now, having opened a new gym, perhaps fans will see more clips of Big Ron pumping iron.
Ronnie Coleman Creating ‘The World’s Greatest Gym’ With Panatta Equipment: “It’s a Natural Fit”
The CEO of Ronnie Coleman’s Signature Series opened up about the big move as well as the founder of Panatta Equipment.
“We have the potential to become the Rolls Royce of bodybuilding,” said Rudy, the founder of the Panatta company.
“The equipment is just remarkable, there’s really nothing out there. There’s an attention to detail and passion to really pushing the pace of innovation is just unmatched. Everything that he does, that Rudy has created, it’s like he’s thought of everything. I don’t know if I’ve seen a jump in innovation and quality in equipment in a very long time and he’s doing that right now,” said Brandon Hearn CEO of Ronnie Coleman’s Signature Series.
“It’s a natural fit that we want to team up with the best, we’re the best, they’re the best. There’s a natural synergy together to go out and kind of conquer the fitness world,” added Hearn.
Aside from gym openings, Coleman has remained hopeful about his health in retirement. It’s no mystery that ‘The King’ has suffered from some health obstacles since last appearing on stage. In fact, Coleman mentioned that he’s undergone more than ten back surgeries. As a result of the toll they’ve taken on his mobility, the bodybuilding legend struggles to feel his extremities when he’s pushing through training sessions.
With health a top priority, Coleman has been receiving regular stem cell therapy treatments. He said they are helping a lot, especially with his overall pain levels. While he doesn’t think he’ll be walking unassisted any time soon, Coleman is hopeful and positive about the future.
With Coleman’s latest MetroFlex Gym opening, fans are excited to see what’s next. In the past, The Metroflex Gym housed several elite athletes during their careers, such as Coleman, Branch Warren, Johnnie Jackson, and Steve Kuclo.
RELATED: Ronnie Coleman Reacts to Reigning Mr. Olympia Hadi Choopan’s Craziest Lifts
You can watch the video from Ronnie Coleman’s YouTube channel below:
Published: 17 July, 2023 | 8:14 PM EDT
Flex Lewis Likens Derek Lunsford to Conor McGregor: ‘You’re Going to Be the First-Ever Champ-Champ’
Before he greenlights his 2023 Olympia prep, Derek Lunsford joined Flex Lewis for a talk about his future. In the latest Straight Outta the Lair Podcast, Lewis discussed their old rivalry and stressed how close Lunsford is to becoming the sport’s first two-division Mr. Olympia champion.
Former 212 Olympia Derek Lunsford’s name has grown tremendously in the bodybuilding world over the last few years. In 2022, Lunsford set himself up for success, having displayed a jaw-dropping physique at Jim Manion’s Pittsburgh Pro. This impromptu appearance was crucial as it paved the way for him to earn a special invite to compete in the Open Mr. Olympia.
Despite it being his debut in the Open, Lunsford stole the show at the 2022 Mr. Olympia contest. Many in the audience deemed his prejudging act one of the most memorable in years. Ultimately, Lunsford battled his teammate Hadi Choopan and Nick Walker for gold in the finals. It was close, but the judges awarded Choopan first for his conditioning, especially from the front.
Lunsford decided to stick with the recipe he used last year and once again made headlines following the 2023 Pittsburgh Pro. During this appearance, he guest posed next to Olympia contenders Nick Walker, Hunter Labrada, Samson Dauda, Mamdouh ‘Big Ramy’ Elssbiay, and reigning two-time 212 Olympia Shaun Clarida.
Flex Lewis, meanwhile, decided to retire last May, right around when Lunsford began picking up momentum. While Lewis intended to switch to the Open, health issues prevented him from fulfilling the dream. Nevertheless, he’s remained passionate about bodybuilding with a long-form podcast.
Flex Lewis: ‘Going into This Year’s Olympia, Derek Is The One’
Lewis always wanted to be a two-division champion like former UFC Featherweight and Lightweight Champion Conor McGregor. However, he believes Lunsford is on that path now.
“Going into this year’s Olympia, I said to so many people – Derek Lunsford is the one. That Pittsburgh Pro, that blew my mind and everyone else’s. I thought to myself, thank God that guys not in the 212 anymore. I also said to myself, thank God I am not competing in the Open class against this guy. I also said, whoever is going to be standing next to that guy is in for a handful,” said Lewis.
“What you’ve done since the 212 is honestly so inspiring. You say that you were never able to dethrone me, but you know what I can say about you, is, I might have beaten you in the 212 class but now you’re going to be – in my eyes – the first ever champ champ. That to me, because of Conor McGregor and many of the other guys from different weight divisions have done it, is and was my motivation.
It was my motivation to be the first-ever two-division champ-champ. You now, whether you thought about it or not, it was consuming for me… I know [being] able to achieve something I’ll never be able to achieve now that I’m retired. I want to see you go to the moon and back,” said Lewis.
Lewis, Lunsford Talk ‘Born’ 212 Rivalry + Derek’s Time Training w/ 8x Mr. Olympia Ronnie Coleman
Flex Lewis and Derek Lunsford agree that most of the animosity toward each other was manufactured by their teams.
“We were rivals man, we were really butting heads,” said Derek Lunsford. “There was this born rivalry and now we realized, it didn’t really stem from us. There was external people fluffing things up. There was people in the middle doing [talking]. And we had no clue,” said Lewis.
“It was firing us both up,” said Lunsford.
“Listen, then it was yeah, I was doing a pose a most muscular, and Franco McGrath was standing behind me and then you literally did the same thing a day later. I’m looking at this: I’m like Frank am I reading into this, did he just do it because of us, and Frank’s like, ‘Yeah, he did!’ Frank was like the hype guy. He’d be like, ‘Did you see what Derek’s done today?’ It was definitely a planting of the seed going into that year [2018]. When I looked back, it’s truly what I needed. It’s what I needed,” said Lewis.
Bro, that’s Ronnie Coleman, saying that he believes I can be Mr. Olympia this year. Like, I want to give you words but I have none. It’s almost like, wow, holy crap! Then at the same time, wait a minute, now there’s this other level of pressure too. The greatest of the greats just said he can do it. Well now, I better freakin do it, you know what I mean. That’s my honest feeling when it comes to that.”
With preparations heating up for everyone, Lunsford has taken a keen interest in his nutrition this off-season. The former 212 Olympia champ detailed his diet and supplement stack recently. Lunsford is aiming to eat as clean as possible this year, which he believes will have a positive impact on his overall physique in November.
Despite Choopan’s impressive victory last December, many have suggested he won’t defend his title successfully in Orlando, Florida. Nick Walker believes the next winner will either be himself or Lunsford. As for 2023 Arnold Classic titleholder Samson Dauda, he believes with more back detail, he has the tools to capture Olympia gold on his second attempt.
Should Derek Lunsford win in November, he will go down as the sport’s first-ever two-division Mr. Olympia champion, a goal Flex Lewis once shared when he was competing actively.
Watch the full video from Flex Lewis’ Straight Outta the Lair YouTube channel:
Published: 17 July, 2023 | 3:45 PM EDT