Tag: nEWS
Chris Aceto Talks Big Ramy & Derek Lunsford Battle at 2023 Pittsburgh Pro Guest Posing: ‘Leave an Impression’
With the 2023 Pittsburgh Pro approaching next weekend, Chris Aceto is taking a closer look at the stars expected to perform on stage. Speaking in a RxMuscle interview, Aceto predicted standout performances from Mamdouh ‘Big Ramy’ Elssbiay and Derek Lunsford, who both share the same goal of winning this year’s Mr. Olympia show. The Men’s Open division has been turned upside down after the conclusion of the 2022 Mr. Olympia event. For starters, Ramy fell to fifth place after most in the community suspected he was off on stage, such as IFBB Pro League head judge Steve Weinberger. Instead, Hadi Choopan reigned supreme and won his first title whereas Derek Lunsford and Nick Walker rounded out the podium in second and third. Judging became a hot topic on the heels of the 2023 Arnold Classic competition which took place in March. Despite his status as the highest-ranking Olympian, Walker ended the show in second behind Nigerian native Samson Dauda. In the meantime, Lunsford made it clear that he was using the off-season to increase his chances of winning the next Mr. Olympia.
Last year, Lunsford guest posed in place of Big Ramy who failed to meet his obligation. Lunsford and Walker stole the show anyhow, which paved Derek’s way to a special invitation from the Olympia brass to compete in the Open. Given the significance of the Pittsburgh Pro guest posing event, fans consider it an appetizer for what is to come in November at 2023 Olympia.
Chris Aceto on Big Ramy at 2023 Pittsburgh Pro Guest Posing: “100% Slam Dunk Bigger Than He’s Ever Been”
Aceto believes Big Ramy will remind the bodybuilding community that he’s still a viable Mr. Olympia threat once he’s done guest posing in Pittsburgh.
“Mark my words, slam dunk. He’ll be in good shape and he’ll be way bigger than he’s ever been. We can play this show back but go ahead. 100% to use the 100% three times in one show,” said Chris Aceto.
Similar to last year, Aceto expects Derek Lunsford to make a powerful impression. He anticipates the former 212 Olympia to be even bigger on stage than in 2022. In addition, he believes Lunsford will have made improvements to his upper body, most notably his chest.
“We got Ramy, who else? Lunsford will look better than last year, he’s also gearing up to leave an impression. Unfortunately, if you’re not gearing up to make an impression for this show, you’re making a mistake. Derek is gearing up to leave an impression that he’s going to win the Mr. Olympia. He’s going to be bigger than last year, rounder, his upper body will be better.
He’ll probably be close to last year’s condition, but probably better. But the scuttlebutt will be you know, his front double is better than Ramy’s front double and his back double is better than Ramy’s back double because he’ll be in better condition than Ramy because naturally it’s easier for him to get in better condition than Ramy.” “Some people have an easier time getting into condition than others, added Aceto. “I think it’s [small waist] is probably a combination of all those. He’s just crazy round,” said Aceto.
Aceto Touches on Judging & How Hadi Choopan Won 2022 Mr. Olympia Title: ‘Tremendous Condition Still at a Bigger Weight’
Aceto says judges at major contests like Mr. Olympia look at physiques for something ‘truly special.’ He specified that Choopan won last year because he brought excellent conditioning but paired it with more size.
“The Olympia, you know, when you’re being judged at the Olympia, I think the judges want to see no stone left unturned. That means they want to see something special. At that level, everyone is big, so they need to see something that is truly special. Look at how successful Hadi has been from day one at the Olympia, this year, of course, he was fuller than ever, not fuller, but bigger and he brought tremendous condition still at a bigger weight and that’s what put him over the top. They want to see something special, usually something special means conditioning.”
In regards to the judging process, Aceto believes it’s fair to wait a few days after a show before asking officials what areas of improvement are needed to advance further in the sport.
“I would never go up to a judge and say hey what did you think between second and first or first and second, I would give him a lot of time before I ask him, and I wouldn’t necessarily blab it out on a show, ‘Oh I spoke to Bill, oh I spoke to Steve and they had so and so in ninth place during prejudging, then he ended up in ninth because of XYZ, a show is a show, but you have to keep some level of fairness there if that makes sense.” “People can come off as biased or unfair when they connect it to the Olympia and make criticisms of people’s attention,” said Aceto.
The last time fans heard from Chris Aceto, he discussed the chances of four-time Mr. Olympia Jay Cutler returning to the stage. Despite fan speculation, rumors online, and the return of Masters Olympia in August, Aceto said Cutler isn’t even considering it on a scale of 1-10. RELATED: Chris Aceto Talks 2023 Arnold Classic Judging Backlash, Says Nick Walker Beats Samson Dauda ‘1v1’ Next weekend, bodybuilding fans will have a teaser of the upcoming season at Jim Manion’s 2023 Pittsburgh Pro. In addition to the contests, Nick Walker, Samson Dauda, Shaun Clarida, Hunter Labrada, Big Ramy, and Derek Lunsford will be in attendance to stake their claim as the next contender to push Hadi Choopan for gold.
Watch the full RxMuscle interview below:
Published: 9 May, 2023 | 4:28 PM EDT
Weightlifter Liao Guifang (71KG) Sets Two New World Records at 2023 Asian Weightlifting Championships
The 2023 Asian Weightlifting Championships are taking place in Jinju, South Korea, from May 5-13. As everyone in the sport knows, the majority of weightlifting’s greatest forces are based in the Asian region. Thus, it was not a surprise when China’s Liao Guifang walked out on the stage and set two new World Records in the 71-kilogram weight class.
Liao Guifang put up a remarkable performance at the 2023 Asian Weightlifting Championships, and she peaked in the Snatch event. Her final and heaviest attempt came out to 120 kilograms (264.6 pounds), which was enough for a new World Record. However, Liao did not show any emotion after claiming the record, proving that she was confident of breaking it from the start.
The previous World Record in the Snatch was held by Loredana Toma, who lifted 119 kilograms (262.4 pounds) at the 2022 World Weightlifting Championships.
Watch the snatch here:
Related: Weightlifter Karlos Nasar (89KG) Shatters Multiple World Records at 2023 European Weightlifting Championships
The other event of the 2023 Asian Weightlifting Championships was the Clean & Jerk. Liao Guifang put up another great performance, but she only completed two attempts. After successfully locking out 148 kilograms (326.3 pounds) on her second attempt, Liao decided to scratch her final attempt.
After adding a 120-kilogram (264.6-pound) Snatch and a 148-kilogram (326.3-pound) Clean & Jerk, Liao Guifang’s Total came out to 268 kilograms (590.8 pounds). This is also a new World Record in the 71-kilogram weight class.
The previous Total World Record was held by Zhang Wangli, who accumulated 267 kilograms (588.6 pounds) at the 2018 World Weightlifting Championships.
Liao Guifang’s Full Performance
Snatch: 120 kilograms (264.6 pounds) — U71KG World Record
Clean & Jerk: 148 kilograms (326.3 pounds)
Total: 268 kilograms (590.8 pounds) — U71KG World Record
2023 Asian Weightlifting Championships U71KG Results
Liao Guifang — 268 kilograms (590.8 pounds)
Vanessa Sarno — 239 kilograms (526.9 pounds)
Chen Wen-huei — 232 kilograms (511.5 pounds)
Related: Weightlifter Mattie Rogers (76KG) Claims Three Silver Medals At The 2022 World Championships
All the World Records in the 71-kilogram weight class now belong to Chinese athletes. Liao Guifang holds the Snatch and Total records, while Zhang Wangli holds the Clean & Jerk World Records. This proves that China is still the most dominant country in weightlifting.
Liao Guifang has done a lot for her country, but even more for herself. She now tops the Paris 2024 rankings, making it evident that her chances for an appearance at the Olympics are large. The 21-year-old Liao will also continue working hard and preparing for her next competition. So, she will keep improving the records for years to come.
Published: 9 May, 2023 | 2:27 PM EDT
Rich Gaspari, John Romano Talk Health Implications of Competitive Bodybuilding
Bodybuilding veteran Rich Gaspari joined industry expert John Romano for a candid discussion about steroids. In a recent Fame, Fitness & Fortune podcast, Gaspari and Romano examined the use of trenbolone in-depth and revealed some of its benefits and drawbacks.
Gaspari, who competed in the 1980s and ’90s, was a conditioning pioneer, having been the first man to display striated glutes on a bodybuilding stage. Even though he was unable to capture the prestigious Mr. Olympia title during his tenure, Gaspari was the first winner of Arnold Schwarzenegger‘s inaugural Arnold Classic in 1989.
Given his accolades and achievements, Gasapri’s voice holds weight in the bodybuilding community. He regularly compares different eras of competitors. For instance, he sparked fan backlash online after posting a side-by-side picture of Dorian Yates and Hadi Choopan. He made the comparison because he was trying to argue that dry conditioning has fallen by the wayside in the Open class today.
Gaspari’s issues with the Open class didn’t end there. In the 58-year-old’s opinion, athletes in the Open have begun to rely on drugs more so than hard work, training, and proper nutrition. In his latest endeavor, Rich took a closer look at a powerful compound called trenbolone, which has quickly become popular and controversial due to its reputation for causing dramatic gains and mental instability.
Note: Fitness Volt does not condone and/or recommend the use of recreational or performance-enhancing drugs. This article reports on information relayed by the athlete or subject. FitnessVolt is not a medical resource and the content provided to you is for informational purposes only.
Rich Gaspari & John Romano Praise Trenbolone for Gains But Highlight Harsh Side Effects on Mood
Romano started by saying the younger generation of athletes has nicknamed insulin ‘slin.’
“One of my classic most-hated terms is running slin, running slin, you ever heard that one, insulin, running insulin. What am I running, EQ and deca,” said John Romano.
Gaspari said tren has become one of the most talked about compounds in the fitness sector. He added that the gains from trenbolone are impressive but come with drawbacks, specifically to the liver and cardiovascular system.
“The new one is tren, these tren people, you hear about Trenbolone constantly online and you guys, if you want to know what Trenbolone is, let’s talk about it, you probably know more about the characteristics of what it does. First of all, it’s a very harsh steroid, you can make really great gains off trenbolone, but it’s very harsh on your liver, it’s very harsh on your cardiovascular system, when you inject it, you cough right way. And then the tren cough,” says Rich Gaspari.
“These are the pellets that — back in the day, this is what [we used],” said Gaspari. “Today’s bodybuilders… they only know about the liquid oil that you get, it’s a very yellow liquid, but explain to them these pellets and you had to set up this old kit, that was the old trenbolone.”
Romano explained the differences in trenbolone formulations as some are more quick-acting than others. Gaspari and Romano agree that pairing trenbolone and Sustanon together results in an effective combination for promoting muscle growth.
“You got to remember it’s the ester that’s important, so trenbolone acetate is the quick-acting tren, the most powerful one right, so it’s – they don’t make it for humans. At the time, I don’t think they still do this, but when it started getting big in the late 80s early 90s because people were taking finijet, but finijet, the Ester’s name is this long, it’s like hex blah blah blah, LMNOP, we’ll just call it hex for short. That was a real Caddy drug, very expensive hard to get,” said John Romano.
“But acetate esters is the more potent one,” added Romano. “That’s why tren and sustanon made such a great mix because you had to take sustanon every other day too because of the propionate component – you always defer to the fastest esters regardless of if it’s a mix. Proprianate is the faster ester of the [bunch],” said Romano.
“Sustanon is a blend of four testosterone one of them being proprianate – that’s the important one because you have to defer to it because it’s the fastest acting one. That’s why you have to take sustanon every other day and that’s why tren goes very well with it because sustanon is a powerful well-used steroid paired with trenbolone acetate. If you don’t grow on that, you’re not growing.”
Gaspari contends even the nicest person would turn ‘nasty’ on a regular trenbolone dose.
“What people are taking are the tren acetate,” added Gaspari. “What I’m seeing with people, so we’re talking about the great effects, really great gains, you’re going to get really big. Tell them the bad things. One of the things I’ve noticed taking tren is it makes you nasty, nuts. Even the nicest, even Mr. Rogers would be nasty.”
In the past, Romano said trenbolone use caused him to feel anger over manufactured thoughts that weren’t real.
“Me, included, me especially, not only does it make me nuts, like wanting to kill, but it causes me to fabricate scenarios in my brain that do not exist and I react to them and get angry over them. Man, it’s only because I do have a strong mind that I’m able to understand that that’s why that’s happening and not to react to it. For as long as I’m on tren, it’s always a struggle to remember reality and what I’ve manufactured are two different things, and don’t react.”
“Users beware, you’re probably going to punch people in the face at the gym,” joked Gaspari.
Gaspari isn’t the only athlete in bodybuilding calling attention to the dangers of trenbolone. Powerlifter and bodybuilder Larry Wheels said he used the compound for some time, which he described as a ‘living hell.’
Contrarily, Nathan De Asha, a popular UK-based Open competitor, swears by the compound and says he takes it year-round for maintaining strength. He also mentioned that using the compound hasn’t made him any more aggressive.
RELATED: Zack Khan Says Athletes Should ‘Stop Chasing the Scale’ and Mega Dosing Steroids: ‘I Don’t Understand It’
While Gaspari and Romano respect the benefits of trenbolone, they understand that taking the compound should be approached with caution. However, there’s no denying it’s widely used at the top levels of the IFBB Pro League.
Watch the full video below from the Dragon Slayer Media YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8DvXjAFYynI
Published: 9 May, 2023 | 2:10 PM EDT
Nick Walker Signals Intensity Shift in Training/PEDs for 2023 Mr. Olympia: ‘Growing Now, Strength is Up’
Nick Walker has set his sights on the 2023 Mr. Olympia title as his off-season efforts are well underway. In a recent Mutant and the Mouth podcast, Walker discussed his diet and game plan to take the title from the reigning champion Hadi Choopan in November.
“I feel great. Now that recovery is better, oh my God, fantastic,” Walker said regarding the next stage of his off-season.
Impossible to ignore, Nick Walker emerged as a Men’s Open frontrunner after winning the 2021 New York Pro and Arnold Classic consecutively. His freakish muscle mass, size, and hardness set him apart from his contemporaries. Though perhaps his massive arms were his biggest claim to fame, so much so, his biceps have even been compared with icon and Mr. Olympia kingpin Ronnie Coleman. With considerable momentum, Walker entered his first Mr. Olympia and finished fifth.
Instead of defending his Arnold Classic title, ‘The Mutant’ stuck to the sidelines in favor of making improvements to his physique, most notably to his waistline. Having taken full advantage of his 2022 off-season with an appearance at the Pittsburgh Pro guest posing spectacle, it was evident Walker was a favorite at the Olympia contest, which was hosted in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Hadi Choopan would raise gold above his shoulders at 2022 Mr. Olympia, but Walker still left with his head held high after earning third place and the Olympia People’s Champ Award. In a quick turnaround, the 28-year-old made a splash at the 2023 Arnold Classic and despite his status as a favorite, he lost to Samson Dauda, which admittedly, was a difficult outcome for Walker to accept.
Nick Walker Targets 20-Week Prep But ’12-Week Mark, That’s When It’s Really Game Time’
Typically, Walker’s preps start at 20 weeks but says the intensity of his diet and training change at 16 weeks, and then intensifies again at the 12-week mark.
“I usually always start the prep 20 weeks out which is kind of just like getting in the groove. Okay, not necessarily strict exactly but this is kind of where we’re headed, 16 weeks out, we dry up a little more, and then you get to the 12-week mark, and that’s when it’s really game time.”
“My waist honestly can say I don’t think my waist has changed much at all,” Walker said regarding his progress. “I’m not overeating, I’m trying – I don’t feel the need to where I have to eat so much food to pack on size and I think that plays a big role. Like I said, we’re eating enough where it’s going to put me in a surplus to give me the energy I need to get stronger make improvements in the gym that need it but not just blow up everywhere. I don’t need that anymore. I think that it keeps the waist obviously a little tighter. It just helps.”
“I’d rather start prep and my weight barely budges… you know, because you know you’re in a good fuc**ng spot right now.”
Nick Walker said his strength is rising and his physique is growing. He specified that his food intake hasn’t drastically changed but they are reintroducing supplements and steroids.
“Off-season really just kind of officially started now, so just training, growing now,” said Walker.
“Now officially means what did you start incorporating the drugs, did you increase the food?” asked Guy Cisternino.
“Yeah, pretty much. Supplements got incorporated now, food is a little bit higher. Training volume is starting to increase a little bit for me. Weight, right now, I’m 280,” added Walker. “My protein doesn’t really change, like after the Arnold even after the Olympia when we did a quick little rebound, it’s 224 grams, which is like eight oucnes, it doesn’t change.
Honestly, since we did start the off-season now, incorporating supplements, the food hasn’t drastically changed from what it was prior because he kind of wants to see what does what and then we’ll start going up in the food. The food is already… you know I’m eating enough to where my recovery is fine, training performance is fine, strength is going up, food wasn’t necessarily the issue but I’m doing say average 5, 600 grams of carbs a day right now for me. My fats are around 80 [grams] he’s pretty big on fats right now. Strength is going up,” said Walker.
At his heaviest weight where he pushed over 300 pounds, Walker said it wasn’t that bad, but he didn’t feel great. This season, however, his focus is not on acquiring more muscle tissue.
“Even when I was 300 and that was pretty fuc**ng heavy for me, I felt like crap, but it wasn’t that bad,” said Walker. “I definitely had moments but it wasn’t that bad.”
Guy Cisternino and Walker hope to train with Dorian Yates in Canada in the next few weeks after Nick guest poses in Pittsburgh.
“We live Wednesday to Pittsburgh because I guess I’m guest posing at the Pittsburgh Pro. She’s going to fly back here, but I’m driving back down with them to Canada – it’s a 5-hour drive, I’m going to be there for like two weeks when I get there that following weekend it’s that Fit Log, or some big thing in Canada, a fit expo or something, we’ll stay another week and doing a lot of content for them [HD Muscle] and then I’ll come back.”
“I was thinking maybe you and Dorian and those guys were out there, I really wouldn’t want to drive, if I was going to go do it I’d take a quick flight over there,” said Cisternino. “I thought that would be pretty cool, me and you could link up and do that to [train and do content with Dorian Yates].”
Walker hasn’t stopped training even though he’s competed at two shows in the last six months. He recently demonstrated a grueling chest and triceps workout that involved seven different movements. Just last week, the Open star demolished a push day workout where he offered insight on how to maximize gains during the training session.
RELATED: Samir Bannout Tells Nick Walker to Hire Frank Zane as Posing Coach for 2023 Mr. Olympia Win: ‘Fix Front Lat Spread’
As one of the most popular and beloved Open bodybuilders in the league, fans would love to see Walker push the current champion Hadi Choopan at the next Mr. Olympia contest, which is slated to take place November 2-5 in Orlando, Florida.
Watch the full YouTube video below, courtesy of Nick Walker’s Channel:
Published: 9 May, 2023 | 11:46 AM EDT
Oleksii Novikov Discusses Elbow Injury’s Impact on 2023 WSM Performance: “My Signature Event Became an Achilles Heel”
The 2023 World’s Strongest Man competition took place almost a month ago. So, we already saw the winner, Mitchell Hooper, and the second-place finisher, Tom Stoltman, post their recaps of the competition. The only one remaining was the bronze medal winner, Oleksii Novikov. However, he has also given his thoughts about the 2023 WSM competition on May 8th. Oleksii sat down for a 40-minute YouTube video in order to paint the full picture of his 2023 WSM campaign.
Oleksii Novikov covered every topic in his video, from the initial travel to the USA to his mental state after the competition. However, one thing stood out the most, and that was his elbow injury. This injury was one of the reasons why Oleksii could not secure his second WSM title, as his overhead strength plummeted because of it.
Related: 15 Incredible Stats & Facts About The 2023 World’s Strongest Man by Laurence Shahlaei
Oleksii Novikov’s 2023 WSM Recap
Oleksii Novikov’s journey at the 2023 World’s Strongest Man competition got off to a rocky start even before the event kicked off. Upon starting his journey from Ukraine to the USA, he had no idea that it would end up taking three days to get there.
“The road (trip) was the longest and hardest in all of my competing history. It took three days. It is hard to get out of Ukraine currently… When we got to New York, all the fun things started… We were told that the next flight would be in 20 hours.”
Even after arriving in Myrtle Beach, Oleksii Novikov had to sit down for multiple interviews and media shoots which caused his energy levels to deplete.
“We came there (Myrtle Beach) at night. Woke up in the morning and all the interviews, photoshoots, and media stuff started… So, lots of organizational activities before the start of the competition. Usually, all the athletes come three days before this… I just had to accept it.”
Oleksii Novikov was absolutely impeccable during the qualifying stage, winning three out of the five events. Consequently, he qualified for the finals with ease. His greatest performance in the qualifying stage came in the Conan’s Wheel event, which he won confidently. He believes that his rivals did not warm-up for the event properly. So, his attention to detail helped him get the best score across all five groups.
“It was interesting that all the athletes did not warm up the way I think is needed… The point is simple, they put too much pressure on their diaphragm and just switched off… I started off carefully, picked it up, felt the weight and my goal was to catch the needed speed and pace so the weight wouldn’t be wobbling.”
Oleksii Novikov didn’t have a great time at the Finals of the 2023 World’s Strongest Man competition. Unlike the qualifying stage, things didn’t go as planned for him. On the second day of the finals, there was a Max Dumbbell Press event that Oleksii was looking forward to. After all, the Dumbbell Overhead Press is his favorite event, but sadly, he didn’t do as well as he had hoped.
Oleksii Novikov revealed that while preparing for the 2023 WSM, he injured his elbow and was not able to extend his elbow without pain. Consequently, he was not able to lift more than 132 kilograms (291 pounds) in the Dumbbell Overhead Press event.
“This event is one of my best, but I will tell you what happened before and during the competition… In the last training session I lifted 144 kilograms (317 pounds), and during these processes I got an injury which I didn’t pay much attention to, just some elbow pain. I kept training and only then noticed this issue with my elbow.
The elbow lost the function of full extension and activating. There were problems with the lock out, and that is why locking out heavy weights became a problem for me… Don’t know if I need surgery or not, but I’ll certainly take care of my elbow… So, my signature event became an Achilles heel.”
In the end, Oleksii Novikov was happy with his performance at the 2023 WSM, but revealed how the mental pressure of having to win the competition took a toll on his performance. According to him, it is easier to perform well when you don’t have high expectations as opposed to aiming to become the World’s Strongest Man.
Watch the video here:
Related: Oleksii Novikov Wins The 2022 Rogue Strongman Invitational Contest
Oleksii Novikov’s Full Performnce
Qualifying
Loading Race: First-Place
Deadlift Machine: First-Place
Log Ladder: Third-Place
Conan’s Wheel: First-Place
Kettlebell Toss: Sixth-Place
Finals
Reign Shield Carry: Third-Place
Knaack Deadlift: Tied-Second
Fingal’s Fingers: Second-Place
Max Dumbbell: Tied-Second
Bus Pull: Eight-Place
Atlas Stones: Fourth-Place
Oleksii Novikov has now competed in 36 International contests and came out with 11 victories. In addition, he has appeared in three WSM finals, winning one (2020) and placing third twice (2022, 2023).
Oleksii Novikov is already moving on to other competitions, having previously announced that he will take part in the 2023 Shaw Classic, Rogue Invitational, and Strongman Classic. So, with at least three more appearances this year, Oleksii has the chance to improve his resume even further.
Published: 9 May, 2023 | 10:48 AM EDT
Dexter Jackson Talks Recent Stem Cell Therapy, TRT Cycles & Protein Demands During Prime
Despite stepping away from the stage in 2020, Dexter Jackson still holds himself accountable in terms of fitness and nutrition. In a YouTube video, Jackson detailed his recent stem cell therapy session, his nutritional plan, and how he’s used testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) to preserve his health.
During his illustrious career lasting over two decades, Dexter Jackson was constantly pushing himself at shows and breaking records as an IFBB Pro. While competing actively, Jackson became a five-time Arnold Classic winner, a feat he made possible with conditioning, symmetry, and most importantly, consistency. His tenure saw him face a number of icons such as seven-time Mr. Olympia Phil Heath, Kai Greene, and four-time winner Jay Cutler.
In 2008, Jackson would reach the pinnacle of his career by defeating Cutler at Mr. Olympia. He wasn’t able to regain the prestigious title but competed for several years en route to his final contest, which came at the 2020 Mr. Olympia where he finished ninth. Jackson also holds the honor of having won the 2012 Masters Olympia competition.
While fans hoped for his eventual comeback, Jackson appeared in an Olympia TV interview and made it clear he’s not returning nor does he miss the sport. When asked why, Jackson explained that his long career was fueled by the idea that he would have no regrets when he finally stopped competing.
Dexter Jackson Says Neck Mobility Has Improved Since Stem Cell Therapy
After seeing doctors, Jackson discovered that he had four discs in his neck that displayed considerable arthritis. However, he had positive findings to report after receiving the stem cell treatment.
“Well, they say it takes anywhere from six weeks to three months before you start really benefitting from the stem cell. But when I went over there, got an MRI, they did an MRI on me to check everything, right, found that I had a couple of – four of the discs in my neck that need – that has some arthritis in it as well. I thought I slept on the pillow wrong two months ago and my neck has been bothering me, I mean, I could turn like probably about three-quarters of the way without feeling some pain.
Now I can turn it all away, I’m not saying it’s from the stem cells, it could have just been from rest or maybe it could be, who knows. Stem cells affect people differently, right? Just like anything else. So, it could have been from maybe a little stem cell treatment and rest.”
“All I know is I can turn [my neck] all the way now, I don’t feel nothing,” said Jackson. “Hopefully that I got treated, hopefully, it’s now going to prevent me – it’s supposed to, prevent me from getting that way, hopefully, I’ve caught it early. I got stem cell treatments in my neck and back. In my spine, I had arthritis there.”
Jackson Details Diet and Current/Past TRT Use: ‘I Like to be Cautious and Safe’
According to Jackson, he now consumes four or five ounces of protein daily. Conversely, at the height of his career, he ate six-to-eight ounces. Moreover, he reduced his meals from seven to three in retirement.
“Let’s show you how I’m living and eating nowadays,” said Jackson. Shrimp, sometimes steak, I don’t eat like I use to no more. Instead of eating eight ounces or six-to-eight ounces of beef or protein, you know, with my meals, I probably do now, about four to five ounces. Not six or seven meals a day no more, so probably about three meals a day with one of my shakes. And like I said, I don’t do two cups or rice or none of that stuff no more.”
During his tenure, ‘The Blade’ said it was common to consume approximately 50 grams of protein per meal.
“For 30 years, about 50 grams per meal [of protein] six or seven meals a day. 300 grams or maybe more. Protein has always been around that. I manipulated the carbs depending on off-season versus prep, contest prep right? You have to manipulate the carbs during contest preps so they would go down as low as 150 grams. But on my high days, I was probably eating 100 grams per meal, so 6, 7, 800 grams of carbs a day.”
He said he ate grits almost every morning while competing. He added that he switched to baked potatoes as a breakfast option because it helped avoid midsection bloat later in his tenure.
“I used to eat grits every day for breakfast. Even you get turned off of grits too much because of the mountain I had to eat and how long I had to eat it for. Now, I probably have a baked potato/grits for breakfast depending on how I feel that day. I started doing backed potatoes during the end of my career because it kept my stomach from getting bloated.”
Jackson shared that he started TRT two years ago and took an on/off approach. Generally, he preferred to use TRT for 12 weeks and then take a 12-week break.
“I started doing TRT about two years ago. I did it off and on for a little bit. I was even coming off. A lot of people think you stay on TRT or HRT or whatever, low test is what that means. You can stay on that forever and you don’t have to come off, but of course, me, I like to be cautious and safe and I would even come off of TRT and just be on it for like 12 weeks… come off that, be off for 12 more weeks. I did that for probably about a week but now I don’t even do that anymore.”
Jackson isn’t the only high-profile 2000s bodybuilder open about his TRT regimen. Bodybuilding legend Jay Cutler shared that he’s using TRT to transform his physique as part of a fit-for-50 challenge. He mentioned he plans to steer clear of more powerful compounds like trenbolone. In a separate interview, Cutler underlined that TRT is still a steroid despite some in the industry suggesting it’s not.
Given that Jackson has won every major title in the sport, he has nothing left to prove in bodybuilding. In retirement, he continues to give back to the community by sharing the wisdom he’s accrued following a long and successful career.
Watch the full video below on Dexter Jackson’s YouTube channel:
Published: 8 May, 2023 | 3:32 PM EDT
Rafael Brandao Hospitalized with Dengue Fever: ‘We Are Rooting for a Speedy Recovery’
Brazil’s Rafael Brandao is on the mend following a severe case of Dengue fever which required hospitalization. In a recent Instagram post, Brandao updated fans on his symptoms, recovery plan, and how long he might be staying under medical supervision.
Brandao is a top Men’s Open contender in the IFBB Pro League, who found success quickly against top-tier talent. Fans took notice of his symmetry, aesthetics, and balanced proportions following his bronze-earning performance at the 2020 Europa Pro Championships. Brandao was expected to compete on the Mr. Olympia stage that same year, but several health issues prevented him from the commitment.
One of Brandao’s best performances came in 2021 at the Romania Muscle Fest Pro. He took first place ahead of Samson Dauda and Quinton Eriya. Brandao mapped out a return to the 2022 Arnold Classic but eventually pulled out, citing health problems again. Nevertheless, he entered the Arnold Classic South America last year and earned gold plus an Olympia qualification.
At the 2022 Mr. Olympia, Brandao showcased an impressive package though some thought he lacked the size to contend with others in the first call-out. In the end, he took 10th place in his debut. Having yet to earn his 2023 Olympia qualification, Brandao will have until October 9 to secure an invite for this year’s event.
Rafael Brandao Offers Health Update After Being Hospitalized with Dengue Fever
Dengue is a disease that can infect humans through the bite of a mosquito carrying the virus. It mainly occurs in warm and humid regions of the world. Many people who contract dengue fever do not show any symptoms, but some may suffer from fever, headache, body aches, and nausea.
According to Brandao, he’s currently under doctor’s supervision and expects to be discharged in the next 3-5 days. Check out his post below:
“Good evening guys!
I’m a little absent here from the networks …
Unfortunately last weekend I had diarrhea and very strong pains in the abdomen, as I have a sensitive digestive system I was treating it as if it were a virus or food infection, until Thursday to Friday I had a lot of abdominal pain and came to the hospital, arriving here I was diagnosed with Dengue! They admitted me right away, as I was showing some symptoms that could worsen the condition to hemorrhagic dengue.
So I’m here hospitalized under medical supervision, probably staying here from 3 to 5 days or until everything is resolved!
Otherwise, I’m fine, being well taken care of and recovering to be able to go home soon. “
We are rooting for a speedy recovery” Rafael Brandao shared.
In light of Samson Dauda’s recent victory at the 2023 Arnold Classic, some believe the sport’s judges are shifting to favor aesthetics, beauty, and balance over size and conditioning. Terrick El Guindy, a popular promoter and IFBB judge believes the rise of aesthetic physiques is bad news for Nick Walker, who uses size, conditioning, and freak factor to overwhelm opponents on stage.
RELATED: Bodybuilders Flex Lewis and Rafael Brandao Join Hands For An Intense Back Workout
While he’ll likely need extra time for recovery, Rafael Brandao is optimistic about his bodybuilding future. Fans hope to see him back on stage in time to earn his 2023 Mr. Olympia invite as the contest is slated for November 2-5 in Orlando Florida.
Published: 8 May, 2023 | 1:17 PM EDT
Roelly Winklaar Rethinking Retirement: “I Never Thought I Would Have Ended It Like This”
Egberton Rulove “Roelly” Etienne-Winklaar‘s official retirement status has yet to be decided. In a recent The Menace Podcast, Winklaar, joined by Dennis James, Milos Sarcev, and Chris Cormier, discussed injuries, protein intake, and whether or not a comeback is on the horizon.
As a standout Men’s Open competitor, Winklaar quickly garnered attention in the IFBB Pro League with cartoonish muscle density, size, and pronounced triceps. The Curaçaoan/Dutch native has proven himself against elite talent, having earned and competed at Mr. Olympia a total of 10 times.
Fans of bodybuilding will be amazed but not surprised to hear that Roelly Winklaar has the most impressive and colossal triceps in bodybuilding history. Roelly’s triceps are so enormous that they redefine what is possible in bodybuilding.
What’s more, Roelly’s triceps are massive even when his arms are at rest. But he also knows how to show off his triceps with perfect posing. Whether he’s doing his signature side triceps pose or a cross-body arm pose, Roelly has unparalleled triceps that make him stand out as the best in the business. No one else even comes close to his impressive physique.
In 2018, Winklaar recorded his best Mr. Olympia performance, where he pushed the late Shawn Rhoden in the first call-out. He ultimately finished third but also received the Olympia People’s Champ Award. Well-respected for his active schedule, Winklaar’s last competition saw him reach ninth at the 2021 Romania Pro.
Questions surrounding Roelly’s retirement have lingered for some time. Last year, fans noticed he downsized his physique, which spurred rumors of his departure from the sport online. In addition, he helped fellow compeittor William Bonac prepare for 2022 Mr. Olympia.
Following a five-hour left shoulder rotator cuff surgery, Winklaar voiced that his future in bodybuilding was uncertain. He said the healing process would factor into his decision to make a comeback. And while he admits he may never build the physique he carried in his prime, Winklaar isn’t ready to close the door on his career.
Roelly Winklaar Hints at Comeback, Talks Injuries and Retirement
When explicitly asked if he was officially retired, Roelly Winklaar had the following to say:
“I can’t answer that no, [officially retired] I don’t want to retire. I don’t want to retire but the injuries that I have I think I can do better to be my best back on stage. I was fighting with myself to train so I can compete with myself even training to look good, but to be the best and what I want… I think it could be never anymore but,” Roelly Winklaar said.
“If I go back, I’ll be smarter and just control the muscle, the pump, and everything,” said Winklaar. “It was after Tampa, after my surgery, exactly. It was… I was training light weight but I was still feeling fit. It was after my surgery [where I decided to stop]. I was just trying to but it wasn’t going.”
Winklaar believes his heavy training likely caused the shoulder injury that has prevented him from working out and competing.
“I don’t know how to call it in English, rotator cuff, it’s done. It’s too much, third-grade [tear]. I tried food, I tried. No, it’s only from the gym from all the years of heavy training,” said Winklaar. “Yeah [I had surgery] that was in 2020 when I did it. I started training back again. And exactly all my last shows, 2021, I didn’t want to eat well. I don’t exactly know, that’s why I placed bad.”
According to Dennis James, ‘The Beast’ has nothing left to prove as a bodybuilder.
“Roelly doesn’t have anything to prove anymore, your name is cemented in the IFBB Pro League forever. People will talk about ‘The Beast’ for the next 100 years. You’ll never have to worry about that. Maybe, I would have loved to see was you getting off stage and telling your fans ‘This is it for me, I’m going to hang it up.’”
Winklaar would have preferred to leave the sport on his own accord instead of an injury forcing him to stop.
“Exactly, I’ve never had a chance to do that. I never thought that I would have ended it like this, you know,” says Winklaar.
Regarding his career’s best physique, the 45-year-old believes his greatest look came in 2018.
“The Arnold Classic Australia,” added Roelly.
During his tenure, Roelly was over 300 pounds but said pushing the limits of his size never helped at shows.
“The heaviest I have ever been was maybe 138 kilos (305 pounds),” said Winklaar. “I can’t go heavier because in that time, I was like heavier on stage. I was like 128 and nobody was liking my shape anymore. That’s why I don’t be heavier anymore.”
To maintain muscle mass, Winklaar discussed common proteins he consumed.
“I was eating in my prep I was always eating fish. No more, like two kilos, two kilos of chicken,” said Winklaar. “I don’t have protein [shakes] no, shakes. No shakes. With eggs [and chicken] for breakfast.”
This isn’t the first time Roelly Winklaar has reflected on his career. In a special appearance on William Bonac’s Gye Nyame podcast, Winklaar revealed that politics affected his placings at contests ‘a lot.’ However, he made it clear that his exit from bodybuilding was a direct result of his recent shoulder injury.
RELATED: Kevin Levrone on Winners Being Hand Picked in Bodybuilding: ‘It’s Business, I Didn’t Take It Personal’
While it doesn’t appear to be final, Roelly Winklaar is heavily considering a comeback. Given his abrupt departure, fans would love to see him back on stage.
You can watch the full video below from the Muscle and Fitness YouTube channel:
Published: 8 May, 2023 | 11:50 AM EDT
Powerlifter Shane Hunt Smashes Massive 926-lb Deadlift Three-Rep PR
Shane Hunt is a highly regarded athlete who is commonly recognized for his strength and sheer size. Even after acknowledging his humongous lifts, many still can’t fathom what an impressive specimen he actually is. However, he continues to improve on every aspect of his physical shape. So, most recently, Shane achieved a 926-pound deadlift three-rep personal record (PR). Afterward, he posted about his latest success on Instagram.
Upon loading the 926 pounds onto the barbell and getting ready to lift it, a crowd of people gathered around Shane Hunt to witness his mind-blowing deadlift. However, after putting his headphones on, Shane turned his focus to the task ahead of him.
Shane Hunt got comfortable in a sumo stance and wrapped his lifting straps around the bar. When he began deadlifting the 926 pounds, he made all three repetitions appear effortless.
Seeing that Shane Hunt used lifting straps to achieve the lift, it would not count in a powerlifting competition. However, that still doesn’t undermine the fact that this is the heaviest that he has ever managed to perform three reps with.
Watch the lift here:
Related: Powerlifter Shane Hunt Crushes 11 Reps Of 700-lb (317.5-kg) Conventional Deadlift At 2022 Olympia Expo
Currently, Shane Hunt is preparing for his next appearance, which is not far off. Despite the fact that the competition in which he intends to compete is currently unnamed, he has revealed that it will take place within about eight weeks. This comes as a surprise, since Shane has competed just a few weeks ago as well.
Shane Hunt seems to be particularly active compared to the past few years. We are just five months into 2023, but he has already taken part in the 2023 Ghost Clash 2 and 2023 Pioneer On The Beach. However, this proves that Shane is hopeful of breaking some records and ready to do everything in his power for this feat.
A decade in the making, Shane Hunt’s resume is now filled with incredible achievements. He has taken part in 16 sanctioned powerlifting competitions and won 12 of them. Moreover, he is regarded as one of the greatest deadlifters in history.
Shane Hunt’s Competition PRs
Squat: 360 kilograms (793.6 pounds) — (2022 USPA Pro Raw Championships)
Bench Press: 232.5 kilograms (512.5 pounds) — (2023 USA-UA Pioneer on the Beach)
Deadlift: 425 kilograms (936.9 pounds) — (2022 USPA Pro Raw Championships)
Total: 1,015 kilograms (2,237.7 pounds) — (2022 USPA Pro Raw Championships)
Related: Powerlifter Shane Hunt Breezes Through a 420-kg (925.9-lb) Raw Deadlift PR
Shane Hunt’s Competition History
Personal Bests
Equip
Squat
Bench
Deadlift
Total
Dots
Raw
793.7
507.1
793.7
2237.7
582.6
Competition Results
Place
Fed
Date
Competition
Division
Total
Dots
1
WRPF
2023-02-18
The Ghost Clash 2
Pro Open
2188.1
570.16
Location
USA-FL
Competition
The Ghost Clash 2
Division
Pro Open
Age
25
Equipment
Raw
Class
275.6
Weight
264.3
Squat
705.5
755.1
-771.6
755.1
Bench
485
507.1
507.1
Deadlift
881.8
925.9
-970
925.9
GLP
115.42
1
USPA
2022-09-24
Pro Raw Championships
Open
2237.7
582.6
Location
USA-MO
Competition
Pro Raw Championships
Division
Open
Age
25
Equipment
Raw
Class
275.6
Weight
265
Squat
716.5
771.6
793.7
793.7
Bench
485
507.1
507.1
Deadlift
881.8
937
-970
937
GLP
117.9
1
WRPF
2022-02-12
Ghost Clash
Open
2160.5
560.37
Location
USA-FL
Competition
Ghost Clash
Division
Open
Age
24
Equipment
Raw
Class
275.6
Weight
268.1
Squat
716.5
755.1
-782.6
755.1
Bench
463
485
501.6
501.6
Deadlift
826.7
859.8
903.9
903.9
GLP
113.27
6
WRPF
2021-09-25
The Bucked Up Showdown
Open
2028.3
528.8
Location
USA-MO
Competition
The Bucked Up Showdown
Division
Open
Age
24
Equipment
Raw
Class
275.6
Weight
263.9
Squat
705.5
749.6
-777.1
749.6
Bench
451.9
474
474
Deadlift
804.7
-854.3
-854.3
804.7
GLP
107.06
1
WRPF
2021-02-20
Hybrid Showdown III
Open
2061.3
534.78
Location
USA-FL
Competition
Hybrid Showdown III
Division
Open
Age
23
Equipment
Raw
Class
275.6
Weight
267.9
Squat
606.3
655.9
705.5
705.5
Bench
429.9
457.5
474
474
Deadlift
804.7
843.3
881.8
881.8
GLP
108.1
8
USAPL
2019-10-16
Raw Nationals
MR-Jr
1653.5
456.11
Location
USA-IL
Competition
Raw Nationals
Division
MR-Jr
Age
22
Equipment
Raw
Class
231.5
Weight
226.8
Squat
-540.1
-573.2
573.2
573.2
Bench
330.7
-341.7
330.7
Deadlift
672.4
716.5
749.6
749.6
GLP
93.49
1
WRPF
2019-06-01
Hybrid Summer Slam
Open
1581.8
434.83
Location
USA-FL
Competition
Hybrid Summer Slam
Division
Open
Age
22
Equipment
Raw
Class
242.5
Weight
228.7
Squat
-551.2
573.2
589.7
589.7
Bench
330.7
-341.7
330.7
Deadlift
-661.4
661.4
-733
661.4
GLP
89.08
4
USAPL
2018-10-11
Raw Nationals
MR-Jr
1692
463.23
Location
USA-WA
Competition
Raw Nationals
Division
MR-Jr
Age
21
Equipment
Raw
Class
231.5
Weight
231
Squat
562.2
589.7
-606.3
589.7
Bench
352.7
363.8
374.8
374.8
Deadlift
683.4
727.5
-766.1
727.5
GLP
94.84
1
USAPL
2018-08-18
Southeast Regional
MR-Jr
1675.5
460.68
Location
USA-NC
Competition
Southeast Regional
Division
MR-Jr
Age
21
Equipment
Raw
Class
231.5
Weight
228.6
Squat
551.2
584.2
-611.8
584.2
Bench
341.7
358.3
363.8
363.8
Deadlift
639.3
683.4
727.5
727.5
GLP
94.38
1
USAPL
2018-06-02
Gulf Breeze Open
MR-Jr
1653.5
447.48
Location
USA-FL
Competition
Gulf Breeze Open
Division
MR-Jr
Age
21
Equipment
Raw
Class
264.6
Weight
237.9
Squat
534.6
573.2
606.3
606.3
Bench
308.6
336.2
-363.8
336.2
Deadlift
628.3
672.4
711
711
GLP
91.44
DQ
USAPL
2017-10-10
Raw National Championships
MR-Jr
Location
USA-FL
Competition
Raw National Championships
Division
MR-Jr
Age
20
Equipment
Raw
Class
231.5
Weight
209.3
Squat
407.9
407.9
Bench
-292.1
1
USAPL
2016-12-09
Southeast Regionals
MR-T3
1422
408.98
Location
USA-FL
Competition
Southeast Regionals
Division
MR-T3
Age
19
Equipment
Raw
Class
231.5
Weight
206.5
Squat
457.5
485
501.6
501.6
Bench
264.6
275.6
286.6
286.6
Deadlift
600.8
-633.8
633.8
633.8
GLP
84.09
1
USAPL
2016-12-09
American Open & Police-Fire Nationals
MR-T3
1422
408.98
Location
USA-FL
Competition
American Open & Police-Fire Nationals
Division
MR-T3
Age
19
Equipment
Raw
Class
231.5
Weight
206.5
Squat
457.5
485
501.6
501.6
Bench
264.6
275.6
286.6
286.6
Deadlift
600.8
-633.8
633.8
633.8
GLP
84.09
1
USAPL
2014-01-25
GA Winter Classic & Single Ply Invitational
MR-T2
1411
374.59
Location
USA-GA
Competition
GA Winter Classic & Single Ply Invitational
Division
MR-T2
Age
16
Equipment
Raw
Class
275.6
Weight
250.4
Squat
507.1
Bench
330.7
Deadlift
573.2
GLP
76.22
1
APF
2013-02-23
Florida State Meet
M_TR_1_APF
1234.6
317.38
Location
USA-FL
Competition
Florida State Meet
Division
M_TR_1_APF
Age
15
Equipment
Raw
Class
275.6
Weight
275.6
Squat
424.4
Bench
314.2
Deadlift
496
GLP
63.96
Data Source: Open Powerlifting. Last Updated: April 12, 2023
Analyze Lifts
Not many people have achieved a deadlift of over 1,000 pounds, but Shane Hunt is currently very close to joining that exclusive minority. His training sessions are always at maximum force, which is why he is reaching new heights during workouts.
Published: 7 May, 2023 | 3:41 PM EDT
Hunter Labrada Shares Tips for Breaking Plateaus & Changes in Off-Season & Prep Training
American bodybuilder Hunter Labrada is on a mission to reassert himself in the mix of title contention after an uneventful Olympia showing. He did not get discouraged by the setback and got back to making the necessary changes. In a recent video posted on YouTube, Labrada shared his thoughts on how to break through plateaus and revealed the changes in his training in the off-season and prep.
Hunter Labrada, son of IFBB Hall of Famer Lee Labrada, entered the Men’s Open division as a legacy competitor in 2020. He dominated the competition at the Tampa Pro with his enormous muscle mass, size, and posing skills and took home the top prize in his maiden IFBB show. The win made way for him to join the lineup for Mr. Olympia, where he placed eighth in his first outing. He scored gold the following year at the 2021 Chicago Pro before improving his standing to fourth place at the 2021 Mr. Olympia.
Labrada’s latest appearance happened at the 2022 Mr. Olympia last December. He didn’t bring his best form on stage and dropped down to seventh place. Following the result, Labrada expressed his frustrations with his performance. His coach Ben Chow admitted he came in flatter than anticipated as there were troubles in timing his peak. Given that he was not in the top six, Labrada eyed competing in two shows for two reasons; to qualify for the Olympia contest and figure out his peak. He started a new diet and training routine for the off-season earlier this year.
Hunter Labrada via @hunterlabrada
Labrada regularly educates his fanbase on a variety of topics related to fitness and bodybuilding. He revealed his full day of eating along with the supplements he was consuming two months ago. Then, he followed up by offering tips on building lower body muscle and smoked a heavy leg workout. One of his biggest ambitions for the season is to lean out his midsection. He detailed three ways of using vacuums to enhance core control.
Last month, Labrada gave fans a look into his preparations for the upcoming guest posing appearances at the Emerald Cup and the Pittsburgh Pro. He weighed in at 283 pounds while fasting and listed the new diet he was utilizing to get ready for the shows.
Hunter Labrada shares tips on breaking through plateaus
In a recent video posted on YouTube, Hunter Labrada shared his thoughts on pushing past any point of stalled progress in the training room.
“If I am stuck on a set and I’ve gotten the same amount of reps more than two sessions in a row what I’m probably going to look to do is employ some kind of intensity technique or a plateau breaker if you will,” said Labrada. “That would probably be in that case the rest pause, doing it for as many reps as I can, which should be a tie for the amount of reps I got last week and the week before, taking 10 breaths resting 15ish seconds and then going as many as I can again aiming to get three or four more. Doing that a couple weeks in a row and then going back to building that straight set.”
Related: 4 Methods For Busting Through Lifting Plateaus
Labrada reveals the difference in training off-season and in prep
Labrada gave his take on the changes in training during the off-season and in prep.
“Not a damn thing. Regardless of the period of the year that I’m in whether it’s a contest prep, an off-season, a health phase, this that or another, I am still training the same way. Very much so logged progressive overload training. The only thing changing is the load and the volume so in the off-season obviously I’m stronger. I’m full of food, body fat’s a little higher, the load and volume might be a little higher although I’m very low volume even in the off-season as we go into the prep.
“The poundages will go down a bit because obviously strength takes a dip but the variable I like to play with a little more is reducing the volume. Heading into a prep I might be doing three working sets on half the exercises I’m doing and then two on others by the end of prep I might be down on two on a lot of them and even on legs days like down to one on most of the exercises.”
Hunter Labrada opened up on developing the gym and bodybuilding mindset last month. He encouraged the more experienced lifters to set realistic goals and allow themselves time to build the skill. A few weeks later, Labrada offered tips on growing weaker calves in a straightforward way. He also laid out a detox drink that helps boost gut health and improve digestion earlier this week.
His latest update will help fellow gym-goers and fitness enthusiasts get back on track for progress and adjust their training routine throughout the year accordingly.
You can watch the full video below.
Published: 7 May, 2023 | 2:23 PM EDT