Tag: nEWS
Flex Wheeler Reveals 1993 Cycle, Says ‘People Didn’t Take Large Amounts Back Then’
Flex Wheeler, a 1990s bodybuilding icon, still represents the sport with class today. In a recent The Menace Podcast with Dennis James, Wheeler laid out his 1993 steroid cycle and discussed whether or not he used diuretics and growth hormones throughout his career.
During a tenure lasting over 20 years, Wheeler traveled the world as a bodybuilder and showcased a remarkable physique with round muscle bellies and superb conditioning. He paved the way for future pros by sharing the stage with greats such as eight-time Mr. Olympia Ronnie Coleman, Chris Cormier, and Kevin Levrone. Before calling it a career, Wheeler won four Arnold Classic titles and placed in the top two at Mr. Olympia three times.
Wheeler would face adversity after his retirement, however. He struggled from a series of health scares and injuries, which often saw him stuck inside a hospital. In 2019, tragedy struck as a medical emergency resulted in the amputation of his leg. While Flex persevered following the surgery, the 57-year-old was candid about his deteriorating health recently.
Last year, Wheeler told Dennis James that his transplanted kidneys from 2003 were starting to show signs of failure. Despite the hardship, Wheeler has remained busy. He recently accepted an Arnold Classic Lifetime Achievement Award in March. Now he’s back to discuss one of his first-ever cycles with Dennis James and company.
Flex Wheeler Talks 1993 Cycle, Diuretics – Says He Didn’t Know He Was Taking “5:1 Anabolics vs Androgens”
As far as contest prep was concerned, Wheeler said he introduced two diuretics: Aldactone and Dyazide on the Wednesday before a respective event.
“Back then I did my same regimen, it was 100 milligrams a day of Dactone, including the 25 milligrams of Diazide that was in there. What is that, 150 milligrams. Just the last three days [before a show] from Wednesday.”
Wheeler said his 1993 cycle consisted of Deca, Winstrol IV and tablet, Anavar, and testosterone propionate.
“Charles never knew more than I did about diuretics and dieting. He never wrote a cycle. He never did any of that for me,” added Wheeler. I have it all written down. Even after I retired, I had these books that I use to always write my whole cycle down. Somebody threatened to break into my house and steal it.
1993, if I can remember correctly, 800 milligrams of deca a week, 600 milligrams of Winstrol, I think 100 milligrams a day of Winstrol tab,” Wheeler said. “I think it was something like 30 milligrams of Anavar. I think back then, my go-to was like testosterone propionate. That was pretty much it.”
“Me and him were like super close, he was super cool, he was always like, ‘Damn Flex, why you always running this candy?’ You’re not running androgens you’re only running anabolics. You’re like 5:1 with anabolics versus androgens. I didn’t understand. I didn’t know.”
Again, Wheeler mentioned he used Lasix and Aldactone but sometimes switched to Aldactazide to dry out his physique.
“What did I take, nothing. It’s just my body was fighting against me. Like I said, man, I won’t say the amounts of diuretics and Lasix I took in 1998 and 1999 but I still couldn’t achieve a good condition,” added Wheeler. “It wasn’t diuretics again. My body and kidneys were failing. I think I took, I can’t even remember the amount.
My go-to, and that was a big mistake back then even when the diet diuretics started changing, I always stayed to what I knew. I always took out Aldactone and then I switched over to Aldactazide. That was the go-to back then. I didn’t know. Remember, back then, diuretics ripped water from you. You would just take a little bit and be shredded.”
Even though Flex Wheeler thought he was taking an excessive amount of GH, he specified that it was less than what bodybuilders use today.
“GH, you know how much GH I was taking? I thought I was crazy, one IU every other day,” said Wheeler. “Listen, back then, people didn’t take large amounts and if they did, they didn’t tell us. I know one pro bodybuilder’s name, he had his own clothing line. That was the first I ever heard of somebody taking 10 IUs a day. If you don’t believe me, call up Paul Dillett.”
Wheeler Talks ‘Reward Meals’ Instead of Cheat Meals & Eating French Fries During Prep
Initially, Wheeler said his diet for bodybuilding in 1993 was mainly eating out at Sizzler or Firehouse. He added that he was able to eat French fries during prep until eventually, his body wouldn’t allow him to ‘get away with it.’
“I’ve talked about worse, right? Yeah 1993, I don’t think I cheated in ’93. You got to understand my diet. Even in 1993, my breakfast was eating at Firehouse, right? Then, my next five meals were eating at Sizzler. Maybe [cheeseburgers in 1997] I was used to eating French fries, so I ate French fries all the way up till I left for the Arnold Classic, French fries, and ketchup.
My point is, now we understand that we need a little more fat. The second thing is I was always in such good shape right, now, right, back then we called it cheating but no, it’s called reward food,” Flex Wheeler said.
“I figured if I could get away with it and it made me look better, then I really didn’t look at it bad. The truth is, the truth is, only until about 1998, I think my was my kidneys were really started failing and I didn’t know what was going on. I couldn’t get away with it anymore. And it wasn’t that, it was the diuretics.”
While battling on stage, many saw Wheeler winning Mr. Olympia as a foregone conclusion. Though, he never was able to match the sheer size of Ronnie Coleman. Since then, Wheeler has made it a point to warn competitors of today not to chase size unnecessarily.
Wheeler was a consummate professional. Despite his competitive nature, he was open to helping others and actually introduced Coleman to his long-time coach Chad Nicholls. To this day, Ronnie has said had it not been for Flex Wheeler, he never would have won his first Mr. Olympia competition.
Bodybuilding cycles have become a very popular subject in the fitness community as of late. Just a few weeks ago, Arnold Schwarzenegger sat down to discuss the two-compound steroid cycle that he used during his Mr. Olympia reign. While some found it surprising, Schwarzenegger shared that he only used deca (Nandrolone decanoate) and testosterone.
Wheeler’s insight surrounding steroids makes for some interesting conversations. Given his expertise, he continues to serve as a valuable resource for upcoming talent in the IFBB Pro League.
RELATED: Flex Wheeler Recaps 2023 Arnold Classic, Says Samson Dauda Exposed Everyone’s Weaknesses
Check out the full video from the Muscle and Fitness YouTube channel below:
Published: 5 June, 2023 | 11:32 AM EDT
Bodybuilder Andrew Jacked Teams Up With Vlad Suhoruchko For A Rigorous Arm Workout
Andrew Jacked recently partnered with rising Men’s Open division bodybuilder Vlad Suhoruchko for an intense arms workout as he prepares to defend his title at the 2023 Texas Pro.
Chinedu Andrew Obiekea, also known as Andrew Jacked, is a Nigerian professional bodybuilder who shot to fame in 2022 due to his muscular physique, perfect V-taper, and excellent proportions. After earning his IFBB Pro card with a dominant win at the 2022 Arnold Classic Amateur, Jacked secured a direct qualification to the 2022 Olympia with a dominating victory at the 2022 Texas Pro. He added another feather to his cap with the 2022 Arnold Classic UK win before Olympia.
Jacked surged into the top ten and secured an eighth-place finish in his maiden Olympia appearance. What made the performance more impressive was the fact that Jacked was on the verge of pulling out of the event due to an illness and still managed to produce a stellar performance.
He made a quick turnaround and competed at the 2023 Arnold Classic next, finishing third. Andrew will return to the stage at the 2023 Texas Pro in hopes of registering his second consecutive victory at the Olympia qualifier. In his recent physique updates, the 38-year-old looks primed to dominate the stage once again.
Jacked joined Ukrainian IFBB Pro bodybuilder Suhoruchko for an arms workout. Vlad earned his IFBB Pro card with a win at the 2019 Dennis James Classic. He has competed at several Pro shows since and achieved his first victory at the 2022 IFBB Yamamoto Pro Show. He is a hot prospect and is perceived as a future top contender in the IFBB Pro League.
Andrew Jacked and Vlad Suhoruchko go through an arm workout
Jacked visited Suhoruchko for the training session and followed the latter’s lead for this session. The duo trained arms together, and the video of this training session was posted on Suhoruchko’s YouTube channel. So let’s go over this training session and see how the big men fired up their massive arms.
Biceps
Machine Preacher Curl
Preacher curls are arguably the best biceps isolation exercise. Since the triceps are firmly pressed against the pad and the shoulder is neatly placed on the edge of the pad, none of these muscles can take over the movement. As a result, the biceps get optimal stimulation. Also, the setup eliminates the possibility of using momentum. (1)
Jacked and Suhoruchko started the training session with preacher curls on a selectorized machine. They performed the exercise unilaterally using slow and controlled movements to build the mind-muscle connection.
EZ Bar Curl
The bodybuilder duo next took to the EZ bar curl to work the biceps. The EZ bar has a zig-zagged shape that enables an angled grip. Unlike a straight barbell, the EZ bar can be a lot easier for the shoulders, wrists, and elbows as it promotes a more natural angle of grip and movement. (2)
Jacked and Suhoruchko cranked out a few sets of EZ Bar curls next to add more stimulus to the biceps brachii muscles and jumped into another machine exercise.
Machine Biceps Curl on Matrix Curl Machine
Seated biceps curls eliminate the role of stabilizing muscles, and the lifter can focus a great deal on the biceps alone. Additionally, various machines add to the benefits of this variation as well. Andrew and Vlad took to the seated biceps curls on the Matrix curls machine next.
This machine works the biceps from a stretched position. Additionally, the machine has a pad to press the triceps against so that the biceps are forced to do the work, similar to the preacher curls.
The training partners pushed through some solid sets of unilateral biceps curls on the machine before moving on to a free weight exercise next.
Dumbbell Zottman Curl
While most of us want big biceps and triceps, we often ignore the forearms. However, it is possible to train the biceps and forearms together. Enter Zottman curls. Although it is primarily a biceps exercise, it helps improve forearms and grip strength, and muscles. (3)
Jacked and Suhoruchko pushed through a few sets of the Zottman curls and wrapped up the biceps exercises.
Triceps
Incline Cable Triceps Pushdown
This is an effective isolation exercise to work all three triceps heads. Additionally, it is excellent for getting a deep stretch in the muscle to stimulate growth. However, it is essential to use moderate weights to avoid excessive stress on the elbow joint. (4)
The bodybuilder duo carefully did some sets of the exercise to work the triceps and took to the next lift.
Machine Overhead Triceps Extension
The overhead triceps extension is a hypertrophy-inducing exercise that activates all three triceps heads. Additionally, studies show overhead triceps extensions induce nearly 40% more muscle growth than triceps pushdowns. (5)
Andrew and Vlad pushed through some heavy sets of the movement on a plate-loaded machine and took to the next exercise.
Reverse-Grip Cable Triceps Pushdown
Cable triceps pushdowns are a great exercise to train the triceps in totality, irrespective of the grip and other factors. However, using the reverse grip helps emphasize more on the outer triceps head. The training partners cranked out a few sets of this exercise and followed on to the day’s final exercise.
Triceps Dip Machine
Triceps dip is one of the most effective compound exercises to build muscle and strength. Jacked and Suhoruchko performed the machine press variation of this exercise to wrap up the show. The dip press machine allows you to reduce as well as increase the resistance beyond your body weight. This helps people at all fitness levels to utilize this equipment to achieve their goals.
The duo annihilated a few sets of triceps machine dip presses and called it a day in the gym.
Overall, the workout included:
Biceps Exercises
Triceps Exercises
Jacked is one of the rising contenders in the Men’s Open division. Experts predict he can make a splash at the 2023 Olympia if he builds his legs up more. The Nigerian is doing the necessary work to achieve the desired results.
You can watch the full workout video here, courtesy of Vlad Suhoruchko’s YouTube channel:
References:
Preacher Curls for Biceps: The Good, the Bad and The Alternatives (Author – Taylor Stranaghan, BHK)
Four Benefits of Training With an EZ Curl Bar (Author – Olivier Poirier-Leroy, NASM-CPT)
Try The Zottman Curls To Grow Your Forearms And Build Stronger Arms (Author – Mike Dewar)
Incline Cable Triceps Extensions (Author – Dr. Malik)
Triceps Brachii Hypertrophy is Substantially Greater After Elbow Extensions Training Performed In The Overhead Versus Neutral Arm Position [Authors – Sumiaki Maeo, Yuhang Wu, Meng Huang, Hikaru Sakurai, Yuki Kusagawa, Takashi Sugiyama, Tadao Isaka (Affiliation – Faculty of Sport and Health Science, RItsumeikan University, Kusatsu, Japan), Hiroaki Kanehisa (Affiliation – National Institute of Fitness and Sports in Kanoya, Kanoya, Japan)]
Published: 5 June, 2023 | 9:11 AM EDT
2023 Mid USA Pro Results and Scorecard
The 2023 Mid USA Pro is one of seven IFBB Pro League contests scheduled for this weekend. On Sunday, June 4, competitors from the Classic Physique division met in Albuquerque, New Mexico, to determine who would walk away with gold, a cash prize, and most importantly, an invitation to this year’s Mr. Olympia competition.
Following last year’s Olympia show, the top three finishers from the Classic Physique category were automatically guaranteed invites to this year’s edition of the contest. Time is running out to ensure a spot on the prestigious stage as athletes have until October 9 to earn their invites.
The 2023 Mr. Olympia event takes place November 2-5 in Orlando, Florida, inside the Orange County Convention Center. Whoever emerges with the crown this weekend will have a shot at the reigning four-time Classic Physique kingpin, Chris Bumstead later this year.
As for athletes to watch, Camilo Diaz stands out as he’s been consistent with fourth and fifth-place finishes at the 2023 Pittsburgh Pro and New York Pro, respectively. He appeared on the Olympia stage in 2022 but wasn’t able to place in the top 15.
Meanwhile, Damien Patrick is eager to pick up a win as well. He notched second and third-place performances at the 2023 Fitworld Pro and the Charlotte Pro. Lastly, 2023 New York Pro fifth-place contender Eric Abelon will be in attendance looking to do damage.
2023 Mid USA Pro Results
Classic Physique
Winner — Damien Patrick
Second Place — Jeremiah Willies
Third Place — Camilo Diaz
Fourth Place — Julian Castano
Fifth Place — Jordan Tripp-Arthur
Sixth Place — Eric Abelon
Seventh Place — Elijah Dixon
Eighth Place — Jimmy Tonkinson
Ninth Place — Stephen Thames
Tenth Place — Louiege Bascog
2023 Mid USA Pro Scorecard
Fitness Volt congratulates the winner!
Published: 4 June, 2023 | 11:55 PM EDT
2023 Toronto Pro Supershow Results (LIVE UPDATES)
This weekend is a feast for bodybuilding fans as seven events will light up the stage across the globe. But the one that stands out from the rest is the 2023 Toronto Pro Supershow, where 10 divisions will showcase their best physiques on June 4. The categories are as follows: Men’s Open, 212 Bodybuilding, Classic Physique, Men’s Physique, Men’s Wheelchair, Women’s Bodybuilding, Figure, Bikini, Women’s Physique, and Wellness. The Fitness division is the only pro division that will not be featured in this show.
Amateur winners who earn their pro cards on Saturday, June 3, will also have the opportunity to compete in this contest.
Last year, men’s open bodybuilder Mohamed Shaaban claimed victory in Toronto and secured his spot at the Olympia. However, he won’t be defending his title this year as he is absent from the Men’s Open lineup. That leaves the door open for some powerful contenders who are eager to claim gold and the coveted Olympia invite.
The winner of this weekend’s show will join the elite group of athletes who have qualified for the 2023 Mr. Olympia competition, which will take place in Orlando, Florida from Nov. 2-5. The clock is ticking for those who want to make it to the biggest show of the year, as they have until October 9 to earn their tickets.
As the highest-ranking Mr. Olympia finisher, Iain Valliere enters this contest as the favorite. However, Ross Flanigan recently scored gold at the 2023 Musclecontest California Pro, and he’s eager to go two-for-two this weekend.
In addition, fans expect Hassan Mostafa to contend for gold as he won back-to-back competitions in 2022 at the Orlando Pro and Puerto Rico Pro. While he didn’t make it to the Olympia stage for health reasons, the Egyptian native is aiming to make an appearance this year. Other notable entries include Joe Seeman, Slavoj Bednar, and Jangmin Lee.
2023 Toronto Pro Supershow Winners
Men’s Open: Coming Soon!
212 Bodybuilding: Coming Soon!
Classic Physique: Coming Soon!
Men’s Physique: Coming Soon!
Men’s Wheelchair: Coming Soon!
Women’s Bodybuilding: Julia Whitesel
Figure: Lola Montez
Bikini: Eil Fernandez
Women’s Physique: Emilija Martin
Wellness: Sandra Colorado Acal
2023 Toronto Pro Supershow Results Breakdown
Men’s Open
Coming Soon!
212 Bodybuilding
Coming Soon!
Classic Physique
Coming Soon!
Men’s Physique
Coming Soon!
Men’s Wheelchair
Coming Soon!
Women’s Bodybuilding
Winner — Julia Whitesel
Second Place — Teresa Ivancik
Third Place — Tananarive Huie
Fourth Place — Melina Perron
Figure
Winner — Lola Montez
Second Place — Manon Dutilly
Third Place — Jodi Boam
Fourth Place — Lauren Martin- Stow
Fifth Place — Dalila Algeria
Bikini
Winner — Eil Fernandez
Second Place — Adair Libbrecht
Third Place — Maxine Somov
Fourth Place — Brittany Gillespie
Fifth Place — Kateryna Kauffman
Women’s Physique
Winner — Emilija Martin
Second Place — Romana Skotzen
Third Place — Amandine Kolly
Fourth Place — Alyssa Coppolino
Fifth Place — Nathalee Thompson
Wellness
Winner — Sandra Colorado Acal
Second Place — Kristen Briadwell
Third Place — Emily Azzarello
Fourth Place — Anne-Marie Gobeill
Fifth Place — Lauren Barton
2023 Toronto Pro Supershow Scorecards
Coming Soon!
Fitness Volt congratulates the winners on their major victories!
Published: 4 June, 2023 | 5:05 PM EDT
Flex Lewis Reveals His Workout, Diet & Recovery Secrets
Legendary bodybuilder Flex Lewis dominated the IFBB Pro League Men’s 212 division with his insanely jacked arm muscle development. Although he moved on from professional competition years ago, he remains connected with the community as a respected figure. In a recent interview with Escaped Fitness, Lewis revealed the secrets to his workout plan, diet, and recovery process.
Flex Lewis grew up with a passion for sports playing rugby in his teenage years. He got inspired to start bodybuilding after coming across Golden Era bodybuilder Tom Platz and the iconic Arnold Schwarzenegger. He emerged as a budding prospect after taking home the top prize in his debut show at the 2003 Jr. Mr. Wales. After the division’s weight limit got increased by 10 pounds, Lewis secured his maiden 212 Mr. Olympia title in 2012. He proved to be a commanding victor as he racked up seven wins in a row. He decided to move on after a final win at the 2018 Mr. Olympia.
Following a decorated career, Lewis continued to train hard in the gym. He embarked on a mission to downsize his enormous build and live a healthier lifestyle. In Nov. 2022, he teamed up with rising Men’s Open sensation Andrew Jacked for a brutal quads workout. The experienced Welsh mentored Jacked again in an upper body training session a week later in prep for the 2022 Mr. Olympia.
Earlier this year, Flex left the fans stunned with an impressive physique update boasting his jacked frame. He laid out the new diet and training plan he utilized to pack on a few pounds after dropping down by around 60 pounds in body weight.
Flex Lewis / Instagram
Considering the impressive package Lewis maintained, there has been speculation about a potential comeback. While he appeared to be content on the sidelines, Lewis revealed he could return on stage if he was offered a seven-figure payday two months ago.
Flex Lewis provided fans with three of his best movements for muscle growth targeting triceps last month. Then, he joined forces with iconic Strongman Eddie Hall for a sleeve-busting arms workout.
Flex Lewis reveals training secrets
In a recent YouTube video, Flex Lewis shared the keys to his training philosophy. Having trained under coach Neil ‘Yoda’ Hill, Lewis utilized Hill’s Y3T training or Yoda-3 Training. He explained the ins and outs of the training plan.
“It’s Neill’s. It’s Y3T so you order three training,” said Lewis. “It’s basically three different weeks; week one, two, and three. Week one is heavy compound lower reps. Week two is kind of like a hybrid of the third week, rep ranges on the second week goes up a little bit higher. On the third week, it kinda answers number two, is high reps, drop sets, super sets so every single week you get a different stimulus and then you repeat it all over again. That’s something Neill was doing way before it became something and I was like Neill, why isn’t this got a name? I just made a name for it and called it three weeks here, your name’s Yoda, Y3T. He was like I like that. That was it.
“We’ve been doing it since I was 19 so it’s nothing that was created, this was something that was just put a name to.”
Being a high-volume athlete, Lewis shared the number of sets he likes to perform in training and the part he enjoys working out the most.
“I do between 20 and 24 sets per body part. Workouts are an hour to an hour and a half. I would train one body part per day. Arms would be combined or separated. My last training system was Sunday legs, Monday morning hamstrings, a couple hours later chest and back. I’d have two days off a week, Wednesday was one and then on Thursday I’d do shoulders, Friday arms, Saturday off.”
“My weakest one is chest. It’s the most stubborn body part I’ve suffered with my whole career and my favorite part to train.”
Lewis opens up on his current diet
Flex Lewis further gave fans a look into his current diet plans, consisting of low carbs and clean sources of nutrition.
“I get up in the morning around 4:30, do my cardio, I won’t eat my first meal until about nine and that first meal is eggs, bacon, and olive oil. I don’t have any carbs. If I have carbs, I feel by the time I get to the gym and I stack in on calls and trying to do things, I feel foggy like I’m mentally not there. I don’t get that way if I don’t eat carbs. Normally my second carb meal is around about 12 o’clock. I’ll eat that a couple hours later. I got a little over a cup with some steak and some asparagus.
“I then have three or fours hours later some salmon. I have a wide diverse of meats, different protein sources, and then before bed I have the same meal as what I woke up on. I try not to go to bed with carbs. I sleep a lot better, I’m 60 pounds lighter than I was so that helps too.”
“But the diet elements of it I eat very clean. The bacon is what it is but it’s very lean cut. I use fats in a lot of my meals like good fats. I’m a big believer in that too for brain function and with the weekends, I have whatever I want. Not all throughout the weekends. I still have structure, same breakfast, and still go to bed with the same meal.”
He recommended creatine as a non-negotiable supplement for any athlete.
“I think creatine has a big part in any athlete’s gym bag. They should be supplementing creatine. In my peak, I was probably taking about 10-15g a day predominantly around my workout.”
Flex Lewis talks recovery & announces body transformation challenge
Lewis declared his ambitions to level up his fitness for his upcoming 40th birthday.
“I’m going to be doing a ‘Fit for 40,’ not the theme I’m going to be calling it but I’m turning 40 in November so I want to be in the best shape I can be physically, mentally, and cardiovascularly than I’ve ever been. We start that in June and there’s going to be a periodic following of sorts documenting different things.
“A little bit of bodybuilding training, strongman training, and UFC guys, a couple of things mixed in and I think it’d be just a good journey to follow.”
He stressed the importance of recovery and offered some techniques he used to boost healing.
“Recovery was something that I really started putting more and more into for the Olympia preps. I got two torn shoulders, micro tears in different parts of the body. I was having Physical Therapy five times a week.
“Recovery for me, I was in excruciating pain. I couldn’t sleep at night. Then I started looking into different things. I invested into a bed one of these systematic beds. I also sleep to this day, I bought a pregnancy pillow, the big U, so I sleep in this pillow on my back.”
“Right now, I’ve got things like cold plunge in my house, a sauna that’s on the way.”
Flex Lewis retired at the top. He believes he could have become the first two-division champion in bodybuilding had he moved up to the Men’s Open class as a 212 Olympia king. He opened up on his steroid use and revealed how he still gets people trying to convince him to return last month. Then, he collaborated with reigning four-time Classic Physique Olympia winner Chris Bumstead for a challenging back workout.
Based on Lewis’ track record, his latest offering will certainly add clarity and value to fitness enthusiasts who want to improve their performance in the gym.
You can watch the full video below.
Published: 4 June, 2023 | 3:10 PM EDT
Lee Priest Wants ‘Olympia-Themed’ Superhero Showdown with Kai Greene: ‘Come Back for an Encore’
Australian bodybuilding veteran Lee Priest has an undying passion for fitness and working out that he has kept up even in his later years. Since stepping away from professional competition years ago, he has become a revered analyst in the game. In a recent episode of Iron Rage, Priest called for an Olympia-themed superhero showdown with Kai Greene at an upcoming bodybuilding show.
Lee Priest rose to prominence for his insane arm muscle development along with his impressive muscle definition and conditioning as an IFBB Pro League’s Men’s Open contender in the 90s and early 2000s. He dominated the regional circuit before making his way to internationally renowned shows like the Arnold Classic.
Priest secured a qualification to the Mr. Olympia contest in 1997 and place sixth in his first outing under the banner. While he didn’t lay claim to the Sandow trophy, he was one of the most consistent athletes with six Mr. Olympia appearances. He took to the sidelines after a final showing at the 2013 NABBA Mr. Universe, where he dominated the competition to score gold.
With the anticipated return of the 2023 Masters Olympia set for August, Priest expressed his interest in potentially competing at the show. However, he would not be able to do so due to the atrophy in his chest and compromised arms. Earlier this year, he revealed the difference would be significant if he leaned out to step one stage.
The 50-year-old laid out some crucial bicep-focused tips on the preacher curl to maximize pump three months ago. He explained the reasons for using different rep ranges, equipment, and grip variations while offering his take on developing the bicep peak.
Two months ago, Lee Priest criticized the eligibility criteria for the 2023 Masters Olympia. He took issue with the show allowing athletes above age 40 and suggested raising the bar to 50 along with the condition they did not compete for at least two to three years.
Lee Priest / Instagram
American bodybuilder Kai Greene is regarded as one of the best Men’s Open contenders of all time to have never won Mr. Olympia. He displayed an impeccable blend of freakish muscle mass, size, and definition. He separated himself from the pack with his memorable posing routines.
Greene came close to winning the Mr. Olympia contest multiple times but kept falling short of legendary bodybuilder Phil Heath. He developed a fierce rivalry with the seven-time champion who kept knocking him down to second place from 2012 to 2014. After taking three silvers, Greene did not return to the Mr. Olympia stage again and stepped away with three Arnold Classic titles under his belt.
Greene teamed up with budding Men’s Open competitor Blessing Awodibu for a grueling arm workout in Jul. 2022. The duo forged a strong partnership as they regrouped for another brutal shoulder workout six weeks out from the 2022 Mr. Olympia. The veteran helped solidify Blessing’s prep for the show with a final hamstring and back training session where he stressed the importance of building neurological awareness.
Three months ago, Greene reflected on his career competing as a natural athlete for over 15 years. He encouraged his followers to avoid steroids and revealed he consumes anywhere between 2,500 and 6,000 calories daily. Then, he showered praises on his former rival Heath, and left the door open for a comeback. He followed up by showing off his massive delts in a workout update two months ago.
Related: 5 Superhero Workout and Diet Programs: From Hulk to Ant-Man
Lee Priest wants an Olympia-theme superhero showdown with Kai Greene
In a recent YouTube video, Lee Priest called for an Olympia-theme showdown with Kai Greene where they’d portray superheroes and villains for an entertaining skit.
Priest donned the prosthetic arm worn by Bucky(the Winter Soldier) in the Marvel Cinematic Universe before suggesting the idea he plays a superhero against Greene’s villain.
“I’m getting ready, I can cover the bad arm [with the prosthetic arm]. I can come back for an encore,” said Priest. “We could do like a skit. Kai could be a villain. I could be Superman. It would be great. Kai could make a really good Venom character or something or Predator.
“I could do like the Bucky and then do something else but at the end the big Superman muscle suit.”
Dave Palumbo responded, “I’d like you to reenact the scene where Superman’s dead and then he comes back from the dead. I think that would be better if you could do that.”
“Can hit me on stage like a big bright light and then the cables raise me up off the stage. That would be amazing,” Priest said. “Then the music changes, the lightning flashes, and Kai comes out as the evil villain.
“They’re going to have a painted backdrop of Metropolis or something or just project Metropolis and then have scaffolding there because remember Kai did that routine once where he started climbing the scaffolding. He could be up on the scaffolding Venom hanging down.”
Lee Priest would like to incorporate the play into a bodybuilding show to entertain the fans.
Palumbo said, “I mean really you’re Superman. What about would you do Spider-Man or whatever? I would like to see actually I’d like to see Kai as octo. He gets in all those positions and yeah that would be Dr. Octavius versus Spider-Man. You could be Spider-Man.”
“Or the Punisher. The villains and the heroes together.”
“The whole show’s just going to be Lee and Kai. It’s Lee and Kai variety hour. It would be entertaining like Lee and Kai going to do three or four different skits throughout the show but they’re well-choreographed and all that sort of stuff. It would be entertaining. But then you could use some of the other bodybuilders too, just people on the stage that you’re working around like general public type thing.”
Palumbo: “It’d be nice to have an Olympia theme.”
“I think it would be good too because superheroes these days people associate whatever they are with the muscular characters in superheroes and that X-Men type things and stuff.”
Lee Priest detailed the difference in his diet and training routine from the time he was in his 20s to now that he’s his 50s last month. While a lot did not change, he modified his training due to injuries and believes burning body fat might have got more difficult.
Last week, Priest suggested doing a Golden Era seminar with bodybuilding legend Jay Cutler and facing the four-time Mr. Olympia in a guest-posing appearance after the conclusion of the 2023 Masters Olympia.
Priest’s idea of bringing Greene back to the stage in such an entertaining fashion would surely be a treat for the fans to enjoy. However, it remains to be seen whether it comes to fruition.
You can watch the full video below.
Published: 4 June, 2023 | 12:39 PM EDT
2023 Omaha Pro Results and Scorecard
The 2023 Omaha Pro is one of seven IFBB Pro League shows taking this weekend. Competitors gathered in Omaha, Nebraska from the Women’s Physique category in hopes of stamping their ticket to the sport’s most prestigious event of the year, Mr. Oylmpia.
Unlike the season last year, competitors have fewer months to qualify for the 2023 Mr. Olympia competition. This year’s Olympia will take place November 2-5 in Orlando, Florida. Outside of the Men’s Open division, athletes who earned a top three placement at the show in 2022 are automatically invited back to compete at this year’s contest.
The athlete who comes out on top in Omaha this weekend will have a shot at the reigning Women’s Physique Olympia queen Natalia Abraham Coelho, who continues to showcase dominance in the division after snagging titles at the 2023 Pittsburgh Pro and New York Pro. Fans highlighted a few frontrunners this weekend, like third-place 2023 Optimum Classic Pro finisher Ana Harias, and debutants Kim Drizen, and Maudienne Profas.
2023 Omaha Pro Results
Women’s Physique
Winner — Emily Schubert
Second Place — Amy McKown
Third Place — Ana Harias
Fourth Place — Autumn Swansen
Fifth Place — Kim Drizen
Sixth Place — Oksana Piari
Seventh Place — Maudienne Profas
Eighth Place — Stacey A. Lewis
Ninth Place — Veronica Laroche Askew
Tenth Place — Casey Stone
2023 Omaha Pro Scorecards
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Published: 4 June, 2023 | 12:16 AM EDT
2023 Musclecontest Bahia Pro Results
The 2023 Musclecontest International Bahia Pro took place in Salvador Bahia, Brazi this weekend on June 3 and was headlined by the Men’s Physique division. Competitors had the chance to earn their respective invite to the sport’s biggest event of the year, 2023 Mr. Olympia.
This year, the 2023 Mr. Olympia competition will return to Orlando, Florida after a brief hiatus. Competitors from 10 divisions will vie for gold but in order to guarantee a spot on the marquee stage, athletes must win a pro show as the point system has been removed.
Whichever athlete emerges victorious this weekend will have an opportunity to face the reigning Men’s Physique Olympia Erin Banks, who became the first man from his category to win an Arnold Classic and Olympia title in the same season last year. As it stands, fans have underlined Gil Batista, Guilherme Gualberto, and Emmanuel Costa.
2023 Musclecontest International Bahia Pro Results
Men’s Physique
Winner — Vinicius Mateus Veiro Lima
Second Place — Emmanuel Costa
Third Place — Felipe Franco
Fourth Place — Guilherme Gualberto
Fifth Place —Mailson Araujo Santos
Sixth Place — Maiki Massario Ono
Seventh Place — Gil Batista
Eighth Place — Everton W. B. Ribeiro
Ninth Place — Lucas Viudes
Tenth Place — Itemberg Nunes
2023 Musclecontest Bahia Pro Scorecard
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Published: 4 June, 2023 | 12:03 AM EDT
2023 Adela Garcia Classic Pro Results
The 2023 Adela Garcia Classic Pro took over Austin, Texas for the first weekend of June. Competitors from the Fitness category brought their best with the intention of earning their invite to the sport’s most significant event, Mr. Olympia.
In 2023, athletes have fewer months to qualify for the event and the point system was removed, which makes earning passage to the contest even more difficult. The 2023 Olympia competition is scheduled to take place November 2-5 in Orlando, Florida.
Whoever claims gold this weekend in Austin, will have the opportunity to face the reigning two-time Fitness Olympia queen Missy Truscott, who is known for pulling off extravagant and creative individual routines.
Currently, fans expect Aurika Tyrgale to deliver fireworks given her status as a two-time Tampa Pro winner. Her exciting routines and endurance always make for thrilling contests. She will face Savannah Byczek, who enters this show having graced the Olympia stage four times. In addition, Ashley Downes intends to put on a statement performance after taking time away from the stage in 2022.
2023 Adela Garcia Classic Pro Results
Fitness
Winner — Darrian Tissenbaum
Second Place — Amber Steffen
Third Place — Aurika Tyrgale
Fourth Place — Savahannah Byczek
Fifth Place — Ashley Downes
Sixth Place — Amanda Sink
Seventh Place — Marlaina Shrives
Eighth Place — Ellie Ambs
Ninth Place — Leila Hughel-Deeds
2023 Adela Garcia Classic Pro Scorecard
Fitness Volt congratulates the winner!
Published: 3 June, 2023 | 11:49 PM EDT
2023 Musclecontest Nevada State Pro Results
Bikini athletes were on the hunt for gold this weekend at the 2023 Musclecontest Nevada State Pro in Las Vegas, Nevada. This show served as an Olympia qualifier for later this year.
With seven different contests taking place this weekend, there are plenty of opportunities for bodybuilders to earn their respective invites to the biggest show of the year: 2023 Mr. Olympia, which is taking place in Orlando, Florida from November 2-5.
Defending champion Ashley Kaltwasser is back and aiming to defend her title in Nevada after picking up the honor in 2022. Given the competitive nature of the Bikini category, fans are excited to see who comes out on top this weekend. She holds the most wins of any category in the IFBB Pro League and remains one of the most successful Bikini athletes to ever compete.
In addition to Kalwasser, fans expect impressive performances from 2023 Klash Series USA Pro winner Rejiuana Harley. At her last few contests, Harley demonstrated a fine balance of proportions, symmetry, and conditioning, which has fans excited about her chances this weekend.
Savannah Watchman is another name the bodybuilding community has their eye on. She’s the 2023 California Night of Champions Pro winner and will look to find more success in Nevada.
2023 Musclecontest Nevada State Pro Results
Bikini
Winner — Ashley Kaltwasser
Second Place — Jessica Wilson
Third Place — Reijuana Harley
Fourth Place — Tara Grier
Fifth Place — Gina Scafoglio
Sixth Place — Valerya Fedorenko
Seventh Place — Maya Soleil Astabie
Eighth Place — Jocelyn Canevari
Ninth Place — Savannah Watchman
Tenth Place — Laura Stalinkeviciute
2023 Musclecontest Nevada State Pro Scorecard
Fitness Volt congratulates the winner!
Published: 3 June, 2023 | 11:33 PM EDT