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ANDREW OYE'S PRO-SOURCE PRO-MUSCLE REPORT
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"O" NO!!! MARTINEZ & GREENE OPT OUT OF THE BIG "O" SHOW (07/18)
The Item: Career Updates/Contest Lineup
The Scoop: Just announced: News has surfaced that IFBB Pro Kai Greene has elected to not compete at the 2008 Mr. Olympia contest. Even though the "Big Show" has been a childhood dream, Greene feels this year isn't the right time to make it a reality. After his third-place finish at the Arnold Classic and his overall victory at the New York Pro Show earlier this year, the "Super Bowl of Bodybuilding" seemed like a logical next step. However, Greene wants to rest his body and prepare for the 2009 season. This week, it was reported that Greene is recovering from a successful hernia surgery. "I'm looking forward to getting back in the gym and improving my total package of size, shape, symmetry, condition, posing and coming in bigger and better at the 2009 Arnold Classic," says Greene.
In similar news, IFBB Pro and 2007 Mr. Olympia runner-up Victor Martinez just announced that he would also forgo the 2008 Olympia and return to the contest stage at the 2009 Arnold Classic. Martinez has been recovering from a torn patellar tendon that struck weeks before the 2008 Arnold Classic. "I just won't be ready in time to be my best," says Martinez. Rampant industry speculation included heavy doubts that Martinez could pull off a return this year. At one point, Martinez wanted to prove otherwise. "I could do it if I really wanted to, but the results would be no different from last year. I want to show up with a better package than last year and kick some ass!"
The "So What?": Even after taking a backseat to the reigning Mr. Olympia Jay Cutler at last year's "Big Show" — in what many spectators called a controversial decision — when asked for a prediction about who will win the title this year, Martinez says without hesitation, "If Jay shows up in shape, it's his show!" Andrew Oye's verdict: With favorites dropping like 45-pound plates out of the Olympia running, could the Top Six be filled with a bunch of fresh faces or previously denied vets? We'll see.
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SILVIO & ARDE TAKE THE SHOW AT HOUSTON PRO (07/03)
The Item: Contest Results
The Scoop: Just announced: IFBB Pro Silvio Samuel was victorious at the 2008 Houston Pro Show over the Independence Day Weekend. At the Stafford Center in Sweetwater, TX, a 5'7", 223-pound Silvio presented his usual impressive conditioning to overtake a more massive Craig Richardson (2nd place), who displayed improvements since his last showing at the New York Pro Show in May. The vascular, aesthetically improved Leo Ingram (3rd place) earned his first invitation to the Mr. Olympia contest in September. Earning qualifications for the 202 Olympia Showdown are the top-three finishers in the Under 202 Class at the Houston Pro: 5'5" Ray "Sting Ray" Arde, who dominated the class and was awarded 1st place, Ricky "Tricky" Jackson (2nd place) and Jeff "Box" Long (3rd place). Most of the competitors who were edged out of the top 3 in both divisions will attempt to gain Olympia qualification at the Europa in August or the Atlantic City Pro in September.
The "So What?": This triumph represents the second consecutive year that Samuel wins a summer competition in Texas to gear up for the Olympia. "My plan was to look for a win, just like last year," says Samuel. "Last year, I was looking for a win to make the top six at the Olympia. I finished seventh, which was good enough for a first Olympia. Now I'm hoping to work hard and take one more step and finish in the top six." Andrew Oye's verdict: Sil has a physique to get noticed. As for his placing, a few folks might have something to say about that, namely Cutler, Heath, Dex, Wolf, Melvin, Vic, Kai, etc.
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BIG BRANCH BRINGS TEXAS-BRED BEEF TO ISRAEL (07/03)
The Item: Career Updates/Guest Appearances
The Scoop: Recently reported: IFBB Pro Branch Warren hosted a fitness demo, answered training questions, and performed a special guest-posing routine for over 300 attendees at the Wingate Institute in Israel last week. As part of a fitness course offered by the Nat Holman School for Coaches and Instructors, Israel's National Center for Physical Education and Sport invited Warren to lend his expertise and provide insight into the bodybuilding industry. "The purpose of the event was to bring people of fitness together," said Anat Meir, a public relations rep at Wingate. The crowd went wild for the 5'7", 275-pound beast they call "Quadradaurus." Warren was encouraged to take the seminar gig by his friend and fellow bodybuilder Dror Okavi (Mr. Israel 2000 and 2001). According to Warren, the sport's potential popularity in Israel is only hampered by the lack of a support system and by limited knowledge. "A lot of guys here are hungry for knowledge, but in Israel how are you going to make a good living from bodybuilding?" The Texas native earned his pro card at the 2001 Nationals and last competed at the Arnold Classic in March where he placed 4th and received his second "Most Muscular" Award.
The "So What?": Intrigued by Israel, Warren plans to revisit. "There's so much in Jerusalem that I want to see," he told The Jerusalem Post, "I was very excited about coming here. There's so much history. All you see is terrorism and violence on TV. You don't get to see the rest of the country." Andrew Oye's verdict: When they saw Quadrasaurus's holy hams and quads, I'm certain folks in the Holy land said, "Holy cow!"
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JACKSON JACKS UP HEAVY POUNDS FOR POWERLIFTING RECORD (06/30)
The Item: Career Updates/Special Achievement
The Scoop: Just announced: IFBB Pro Johnnie Jackson competed in the 2008 United States Powerlifting Federation (USPF) National Powerlifting Championships in Warwick, RI, this past weekend. The 5'8", 275-pound big man had big goals – a 900-pound deadlift and a 600-pound bench press. Jackson survived a minor crisis during the weigh-in involving an open-back bench-press shirt that did not meet USPF regulations. The man dubbed "the world's strongest bodybuilder" went on to complete a 465-pound bench press, but his 600-pound lift was disqualified due to a slight dip at the end of the lockout that resulted in an elbow strain. While Johnnie set a deadlift world record of 760 lbs., his 821-pound deadlift was not credited for failure to push his hips forward at the top of the lift. A third attempt resulted in a pulled hamstring.
The "So What?": My buddy Millard Baker and Muscletime was the sole bodybuilding ‘zine to follow Jackson to the USPF meet and provide exclusive worldwide coverage via a live feed on muscletime.com. "We felt this meet was not only a big deal for Johnnie Jackson but also for the credibility of the sport of bodybuilding," says Millard. "Johnnie definitely gained respect, on behalf of bodybuilding, from the powerlifting community." Andrew Oye's verdict: Question. Will JOJ's powerlifing injuries affect his bodybuilding plans, which include the Europa Pro and Atlantic City Pro? Time will tell if crossover athletes can rule both sports.
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ARNTZ ACCRUES ACCOMPLISHMENTS: A KID, A CONTRACT, A SLOT AT THE "O" (06/27)
The Item: Career Updates/Supplement Co. Contract
The Scoop: Athlete to Andrew: IFBB Pro Jason Arntz contacted me with an update from his corner of the east coast muscle scene. The 5'6", jacked-up Jersey boy carries 235 lbs. in the off-season and usually competes at 210-215 lbs. However, "Baby Jay" is now taking advantage of the Under 202 Division on the pro circuit. Most recently, he placed 3rd at the NY Pro in the Under 202 Class – his highest placing in his pro career. This qualified him for the Mr. Olympia Under 202 in Las Vegas in September. "The Olympia is something I've been dreaming about since I was 16 years old," Jason excitedly told me. "Also, I am a new Gaspari Nutrition athlete. I couldn't be happier." Arntz, who earned his pro card at the 1998 Nationals in Atlanta, GA, just started his contest prep for the Big Show 16 weeks out. He pumps iron in Middlesex County, NJ, where he works as a mortgage broker. He also tied the knot this month!
The "So What?": Arntz wasn't even sure where he would place after the NY Pro prejudging rounds. "I knew I was locked in for the 3rd or 4th spot. I wasn't sure until the last second when they called me out and handed me the check and the third-place trophy." His current happiness is split between his emotional career high and the impeding birth of his daughter, due be born on Olmypia Weekend. Andrew Oye's verdict: Ten years in the making, a slot at the O is nice, but fatherhood will be Bay Jay's true prize
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LEVRONE LEAVES LESSONS & BUILDS A NEW LEGACY (06/16)
The Item: Legends Update/Guest Appearances
The Scoop: Recently reported: Retired IFBB Pro Kevin Levrone hosted the Kevin Levrone Athlete Seminar in San Antonio on June 15. The seminar was broadcast live on Muscletime.com. The legendary Maryland Muscle Machine addressed a gathering of amateur bodybuilders who had competed at the 2008 NPC South Texas Bodybuilding Classic the day before. The contest promoter, National-level competitor Prince Fontenot, and Bob Johnson of Posedown Magazine organized the event for the 2-time Arnold Classic winner and Top 5 Olympia contender. The presentation opened with a humorous story about how Fontenot, as an amateur, filled in for Levrone, "the winningest bodybuilder in history," at a guest-posing gig. At 5'10" and 245 lbs on stage, Levrone racked up 20 pro career wins. He's now a movie producer, actor and lead singer of the band Fulblown, but the perennial fan favorite still makes appearances at major fitness events and expos to dispense training and nutrition advice to the next generation that yearns to benefit from the lessons of the "Uncrowned Mr. Olympia."
The "So What?": Last year, rumors of a Levrone comeback to competition were swirling fiercely among bodybuilding fans. But when Levrone visited my place in Hollywood last spring to drop off some EST Nutrition swag and chat about his dramatic turn in the movie "I AM," which will be released this fall, I knew the Muscle Stage he had left in 2004 was the farthest thing from his mind. Andrew Oye's verdict: Levrone has left his iron legacy. He made his muscles; now, he's making movies.
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PRIEST PERMITTED TO POSE IN IFBB AGAIN (06/10)
The Item: IFBB Reinstatement/Career Updates
The Scoop: Just announced: With 11 out of 16 committee votes in his favor, Lee Priest has been officially reinstated into the IFBB. This decision follows Priest's suspension that began in September 2006 for competing in the now defunct Pro Division Inc. (PDI). "Yes, he's back in the IFBB," says IFBB Professional League Chairman Jim Manion. "He's free to enter any contest. He's free to guest pose. He has to sign his membership card but other than that formality, which I'm sure he will do, he's officially back." First up on Priest's contest schedule – the Atlantic City Pro in September, two weeks before the big Mr. Olympia contest. "I think the timing was right," Manion states. "I think Lee has been penalized long enough. He's made a lot of overtures obviously to try to get back in the IFBB...I'm sure he can't wait to jump back on stage and get back into the action." The outspoken muscle-mouth, who had been critical of the IFBB and its policies, announced that he will return to his home continent of Australia at the end of June for his contest preparation.
The "So What?": Initially, IFBB officials intended to vote on Priest's reinstatement on Olympia Weekend, but they fast-tracked the process to give Priest a chance to qualify for the 2008 Mr. O. show. Andrew Oye's verdict: Competitors in the 210 & Under divisions and 202 & Under classes at the various pro shows best be on alert. Things are about to get interesting.
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TRICKY TRACKS CHANGES & CHASES PROMOTION AS A TRUE PERFORMER (06/05)
The Item: Career Updates/Contest Promotion
The Scoop: Athlete to Andrew: IFBB Pro Richard "Tricky" Jackson filled me in on the latest in Camp Tricky. In May, he placed 9th in the NY Pro (202 & Under) and snagged yet another Best Poser Award. "With the addition of the 202 & Under division, I have a new zest for the sport," says Jackson. "I'm aggressively promoting myself to be one of the best in the 202 class and one of the best posers in the sport." After the NY Pro, Jackson flew to Cali for tweak-training with master trainer Charles Glass. "It was torture, but I live for that type of training. With a few small changes and a little dryer conditioning, I can battle anyone in the pro ranks."
Tricky earned his pro card at the 2005 NPC Nationals and currently swings barbells at Urban Active in Louisville, KY. On October 11th, Jackson hosts his 11th annual NPC Bluegrass Muscle Classic. Next on the docket: the Tampa Pro and the Europa Super Show to qualify for the Olympia. "My current weight is 205 lbs. I plan to be about 194 and peeled to the bone." His MHP contract ends this year, and he's ready to step out of the shadow of Victor Martinez and into a new opportunity to be the main guy.
The "So What?": While in LA, Tricky did a video shoot with Bill Dobbins as part of his self-promotion plan. This year, Jackson released two videos: "Pose Like A Pro" and "Battle Of The Giant Killers." Andrew Oye's verdict: After interviewing him for my posing series, "The Art of War," I know Tricky's tricky posing has already placed him among the sport's best.
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FERRIGNO FILMING FUNNY FEATURE FILM (05/29)
The Item: Legends Update/Career Updates
The Scoop: Recently reported: After hitting Grauman's Egyptian Theater for the Hollywood premiere party for "Bigger Stronger Faster," the docu-flick about performance enhancement substance use in pro sports, members of the bodybuilding media spotted former IFBB pro Lou Ferrigno on Venice Beach on the set of "I Love You, Man." Starring Paul Rudd, Jaime Pressly and Jason Segel, "I Love You, Man" is about a newly engaged guy who sets out to find the perfect Best Man for his wedding. Although the big man has a small role in the comedy flick slated for a 2009 theatrical release, the 2-time Mr. Universe was reportedly seen filming his scene all day.
The "So What?": Once stalking the Muscle Stage at 6' 5", 275 pounds, Ferrigno is one of few pro bodybuilders to make a successful transition into Hollywood stardom, most notably for his roles as a determined underdog in "Pumping Iron" and as a beefy, green-skinned beast in the popular '70s-'80s TV series "The Incredible Hulk," which will be revived as a Summer 2008 blockbuster starring Ed Norton. Andrew Oye's verdict: Having seen him on the sitcom "King of Queens," I feel Ferrigno does funny fairly well.
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SAMUEL SEEKS STAGE TIME SOONER AT SUMMER SHOW (05/22)
The Item: Career Updates
The Scoop: Recently announced: IFBB Pro Silvio Samuel announced this week that he has switched up his plans and intends to revisit the Muscle Stage sooner than expected. The Brazilian-born, Nigerian-bred muscleman will compete this summer at the IFBB Houston Pro Invitational (July 4-5). Sil earned his pro card in 2006. He won the first contest of his pro career at the 2007 IFBB Europa, claiming top honors in the Under 210 class and winning the Overall title, which gave him buzz on his way to last year's Mr. Olympia. The 5'7", 223-pounder bends steel in Los Angeles and is brewing a similar strategy for 2008."That is exactly what I hope to do this time around, except it will be on the bigger level," says Samuel. "I'm not going into the lower class. I've been making improvements and have kept my conditioning. I can do this show and still have more time to make more improvements for the Olympia."
The "So What?": After competing in the first two contests of the 2008 season - placing fourth at the Ironman Pro and fifth at the Arnold Classic – Samuel had previously decided he would take time off before returning to competition at the 2008 Olympia. Andrew Oye's verdict: The sooner, the better. Fans want to see those improvements, Sil.
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COLUMBU GETS KUDOS AT MUSCLE BEACH MAKEOVER DEBUT (05/16)
The Item: Legend's Update/Event Promotions
The Scoop: Two-time Mr. Olympia and former IFBB Pro Franco Columbu will appear at Muscle Beach in Venice, CA, on Saturday (May 17) for the Weight Pen Renovation grand unveiling ceremony. "New StarTrac Equipment equipment worth $31,000 and $20,000 worth of equipment by Headblade were donated, which enabled us to put in new flooring," says Smokin' Joe Wheatley, who has spearheaded Muscle Beach's recent revitalization. "After the ribbon cutting ceremony, we will be unveiling the plaques of the 2007 inductees, including Jack LaLanne (Lifetime Achievement Award), Franco Columbu, Tony Pearson, DeForrest 'Moe' Most and Pudgy Stockton." The makeover includes 30 new pieces of the latest in strength-building equipment added to Muscle Beach's famous outdoor workout pit, which has been closed since May 5 during the renovation period. Completed in 2007, the Muscle Beach Venice Walk of Fame (like the Hollywood Walk of Fame) celebrates Hall of Fame honorees with bronze plaques incorporated into the Weight Pen's foundation.
The "So What?": A legendary fixture in bodybuilding's Golden Era, the Italy-born Dr. Columbu was a champion power lifter, Strong Man competitor and - at 5'5", 185 pounds -- a pioneer for the shorter beasts of bodybuilding. Dubbed "the Sardinian Strongman," Columbu was crowned Mr. Universe 1970 and Mr. Olympia in 1976 and 1981.
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KAI FLIES HIGH FOR THE PRIZE IN N.Y. (05/13)
The Item: Bodybuilding Contest Results/Supplement Co. Contract
The Scoop: IFBB Pro Kai Greene slayed all the other pumped-up lions in his path to win the New York Pro Show at the Tribeca Performing Arts Center in downtown Manhattan over the weekend. Some thought Lion Slayer Greene would be unable to peak again so soon after the Arnold Classic and a less-than-stellar placing might affect his placing at the upcoming Mr. Olympia contest. That worry was quickly put to rest when Greene glided on stage as a carved-up mass of muscles in the high 200s, easily topping a field that included Kevin English, David Henry, Ronnie Rockel, and Craig Richardson (2nd-5th, respectively). English also won the Under 202 class.
The "So What?": Doubters (or, for the hip - "haters") were counting out the creative and controversial Kai until a recent string of good fortune put Greene back in the game on all fronts. In the last few weeks, Greene snared an MD magazine contract and a sponsorship contract with MuscleMeds, an emerging, hardcore supplement brand. "I am thrilled to be with an innovative company like MuscleMeds," Greene says. "Their chemists have really developed some incredible products, which definitely helped me gain the 20lbs of muscle this year. Now, that I have signed with them and will be also be getting some great financial support, it takes a lot of pressure off and I can really focus 100% on my training…I am going to steam roll to the Olympia where I plan to shake things up."
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RUMORS OF A "REAL DEAL" RETURN ARE FOR REAL (05/09)
The Item: Career Updates
The Scoop: Recently announced: On this week's PBW radio show, IFBB Pro Chris Cormier announced plans to return to the Muscle Stage, pulling a double whammy: the IFBB Pro Bodybuilding Weekly Championships (August 9) and the IFBB Europa SuperShow (August 16). With over 70 pro shows under his trunks, "Real Deal" Cormier last battled and placed sixth at the 2007 IFBB Atlantic City Pro, after placing fourth at the IFBB Montreal Pro just a week prior. Known for one of the most powerfully complete physiques, Cormier is on a mission to complete his career goals. "This means everything," says Cormier. "I'm not going to do A, B and C and then miss the X, Y and Z. I gotta finish the alphabet type of thing. No way I can live with myself without doing that. I'm not that type of person. The passion I have, the things I've learned and experienced over the years? If I can't be competitive with the top guys in the world, I'm not going to do it." Toting 275 pounds, Cormier did a guest spot at the IFBB Pittsburgh Pro Figure Championships last weekend and declared that he's ready for the challenge of qualifying for the Mr. Olympia again.
The "So What?": Cormier's 2007 showings were considered borderline miraculous, because, a year earlier, Cormier had lost the ability to walk while hospitalized with a severe back injury. Convinced he's got enough fuel in the tank to drive a few more miles on the competitive road and end on a career high – perhaps a Hall of Fame slot – Real Deal admits, "It's taken me lot of time to get comfortable with my body again, but…I knew I wasn't done, I still have the fire inside of me."
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HEATH HAS A HUGE CONTRACT & A HOME AT WEIDER (05/07)
The Item: Magazine Contract Signing
The Scoop: Just announced: IFBB Pro Phil Heath signs an exclusive, multi-year contract with Weider Publications. Phil "The Gift" Heath made the announcement at this past weekend's Pittsburgh Pro Figure Championships. FLEX Group Editorial Director Peter McGough first approached Heath before the Junior Nationals and brought him to the AMI/Weider team. Heath went on to win the overall titles at the NPC Junior Nationals and the NPC USAs in 2005. In the pro ranks, he has claimed victories at the 2006 New York Pro, 2006 Colorado Pro and 2008 Ironman Pro in February. His remarkable muscularity and conditioning has made the 28-year-old, who crushes iron plates in Colorado, the physique of the moment, with muscle-heads buzzing that a future Mr. O. is in our midst.
The "So What?": While Heath has qualified for the IFBB Olympia for the past two years, he hasn't flexed a bicep on bodybuilding's biggest stage. At last, it was also announced on Saturday that the ink is dry on the contract, and The Gift will give bodybuilding fans the gift of his presence on the Olympia stage in September.
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HANEY HEADS UP CONTEST & HANDS OUT ADVICE (05/06)
The Item: Legends Update/Contest Promotions
The Scoop: Eight-Time Mr. Olympia and Former IFBB Pro Lee Haney appeared on the "Pro Bodybuilding Weekly" Radio Show last week to promote the 2008 Lee Haney Bodybuilding Fitness & Figure Challenge (www.leehaneychallenge.com) in Shreveport, LA (May 10). Haney also dispensed sage advice to former Mr. O. Ronnie Coleman (regarding a rumored comeback) and current Mr. O. Jay Cutler (regarding his title defense) about pursuing one's passion in the transition from champ on the stage to contributor in society. For Haney, that now means operating health and nutrition businesses, mentoring youth, authoring books, hosting TV shows, and acting as Chairman to the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports. In addition, the legendary bodybuilding ambassador commented on the current state of the sport. Of today's physiques, he says, "The sacrifice made to reach certain levels in size and mass has deterred a lot of younger athletes from wanting to become professional bodybuilders. If you get too far out there...from what appeals to the masses, which is a nice-looking, shapely physique, you start to lose your audience."
The "So What?": When he dominated the Olympia stage (1984-1991), Haney's physique was a blueprint for the mass-with-symmetry combo, competing at 246 pounds at the end of an era for physiques with flowing proportions. Haney laments that, in his role as a coach, he faces disenchanted young athletes who long to easily reach 275 pounds. "Arnold won Olympias at 232 pounds." Thus, winning Teenage America at 214 pounds, a youthful Lee's hope of obtaining O. Gold seemed realistic. He notes that competitors of his era were cut from a similar cloth as Schwarzenegger. "You had to have a tapered waist. You could not sacrifice symmetry and shape for mass," says Haney, who diplomatically concludes, "The criteria have changed, but beauty is in the eye of the beholder."
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MO GETS MO' COVERS AND WANTS MO' RESPECT FOR "NATURALS" (04/28)
The Item: Career Updates/Highlights
The Scoop: Athlete to Andrew: The May 2008 issue marks the second time the pecs and biceps of Musclemania Pro Morris "Mo" Mendez have emblazoned the cover of Muscle & Fitness Magazine. I hit up Mo for his reaction. "The new cover is hot! I look full, cut and symmetrical. Friends and fans in different countries say it's a fresh, appealing and obtainable look for the general public. 'Action hero quality.' Ha! Show me the money!" The future action hero (with four international covers to his credit) pumps iron at Gold's Gym in Bloomfield, CT, and earned his pro card at the 2000 Fitness Atlantic/Musclemania in New Haven. His last competition was the 2005 Musclemania Worlds In Hollywood. "If time allows me to train mentally and physically, my next competition will be the Superbody in Miami." Mo plans to hit Africa and Argentina for appearances. "I like guesting in different countries because they appreciate you more, especially where they find it impossible to look like a Ronnie Coleman or a Jay Cutler. I'm proof you can look just as good with patience, time and dedication."
The "So What?": The 198-pound, model-athlete expressed frustration being a big man in a giant man's world. Even with a rising profile and a marketable physique, Mendez currently has no sponsors. "It's tough to get a sponsor to pay you what you want for your hard work," he laments. Then he laughs. "As a natural bodybuilder, your competition is those monsters. They want you to look like that, but I'm a suit-and-tie man. I like to look good in my clothes."
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KEEN GREENE REDEEMED WITH TEAM "MD" DEAL (04/24)
The Item: Magazine Contract Signing
The Scoop: Just announced: IFBB Pro Kai Greene inks a multi-year contract with Team MD. This week on "No Bull" Radio, Kai said he signed with Muscular Development over other suitors, because "MD has gone a long way from the beginning to extend a wonderful resource for me to reach out to the fans and tap into a readership that is unparalleled. I deeply appreciated that, particularly at a time when I wasn't getting a lot of love." Following his first victory at the 2007 IFBB Colorado Pro Show, Greene packed on 30 pounds of solid muscle and now hits nearly 300 pounds in the off-season. Last month, the flexible and ferocious force I dubbed the "Lion Slayer" in "The Art of War," my posing and presentation series, placed 3rd at the Arnold Classic. The posing phenom is now keenly focused on slaying competitors in his hometown at the IFBB New York Pro (May 10).
The "So What?": Kai, who admitted to being moved to tears by his latest MD cover, was in a crew left contract-less when Pinnacle/Kemistry cleaned house and released all of its sponsored athletes at the end of 2007. Recently, day-in-the-life videos posted online showed Kai still surviving on humble means while continuing to chase his pro bodybuilding dreams. With other endorsement deals also looming, has the gravy train finally rolled into his subway station?
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COLEMAN CRUISES ON TV TO CONFER CUSTOM CHOPPER TO CHARITY (04/21)
The Item: TV Appearance/Philanthropy
The Scoop: Just Announced: Muscle-heads meet gear-heads when 8-time Mr. Olympia and retired IFBB Pro Ronnie Coleman and Bio-Engineered Supplements and Nutrition Inc. (BSN) make an exclusive appearance on the popular cable TV show American Chopper. The episode will document the building of a custom fabrication, one-of-kind BSN-themed chopper. The show will feature cameo appearances by BSN execs, the girls of BSN, and Team BSN athletes Anthony Presciano and King Coleman (who made his emotional, official exit from the muscle stage at last year's Mr. O. in Vegas). Tune in to TLC this week (April 24th) to watch father and sons - the Teutuls - and the Orange County Chopper (OCC) crew build the badass BSN muscle bike.
The "So What?": BSN also commissioned a replica of its bike and will donate 100% of the proceeds from its sales to the Warrior Transition Unit of a New York hospital. "We really wanted to do something to give back to the soldiers who put their lives on the line every day protecting our country," says BSN Co-Founder and VP Scott James. "We shot the bike's unveiling at a soldier's monument in West Point, NY, near the Keller Army Community Hospital and it made us all feel really proud."
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FLEX GETS "CUT TO THE HEAD"... AS NEW RAZOR HYPE MAN (04/17)
The Item: Endorsement Deal/Contest Promotions
The Scoop: Recently Announced: Retired IFBB Pro Kenneth "Flex" Wheeler inked a deal with HeadBlade, Inc. One of the most impressive bodies to grace a muscle stage lends his head as an endorser of the sportily designed skull-scraping razor. He joins a smooth-domed fraternity that includes IFBB Pro Toney Freeman and MMA Top Dog Chuck Liddell. "Flex will help expand our lifestyle brand with his regular training and appearances at various competitions," says Todd Greene, President of HeadBlade, Inc. The company will be a presenting sponsor at the 2008 Flex Wheeler Classic in July. Wheeler, who now sports tatted-up biceps, runs with the rowdy MD crew and proclaims to be "the Ultimate Natural Freak," is also a martial artist that wowed the bodybuilding industry for nearly 25 years until 2001, doing full splits on stage at 5'9"and 245 pounds. Wheeler says, "After being introduced to HeadBlade two years ago, I have never considered using any other product to shave my head."
The "So What?": "2007 Arnold Classic Champion Victor Martinez has been confirmed to be at [the Flex Wheeler Classic}!" says Flex, who reportedly spoke with Martinez at the Arnold Classic, the site of Wheeler's deal announcement, and received direct confirmation that "he will not only be able to attend and participate in the Superstar Seminar, but he states that he will be completely rehabbed from his knee injury and will also guest pose at the night finals!"
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HAMAN'S HIGH-ENERGY CAREER INCLUDES HIGH HOPES FOR TV (04/14)
The Item: Career Updates/Highlights
The Scoop: Athlete to Andrew: I scored scoop from IFBB Pro Andy Haman, who appeared at WFC Fight Night at the Denver Coliseum for an autograph signing on Saturday. Next up, guest-posing stops at the Southern Colorado Championships (May 10th) and the Carla Sanchez Fitness Fiesta (Oct 15th). Haman earned his pro card at the 2007 NPC Masters Nationals, winning the Super-Heavyweight Class and the Overall title. "I'm training INSANE!" the ever-energetic muscle manic tells me. "I enjoy my time in the gym more and more as I get older! Still strong with a 625-pound flat bench!" Iron Head Haman plans to bring his iron pecs and quads to the stage at the Houston Pro on July 4th. The spiky-haired beast will then celebrate his 42nd birthday onstage at the Europa on August 16th, followed by the Atlantic City Pro in September. He calls this three-show circuit the "BING-BANG-BOOM!"
The "So What?": Iron Head is banging his head on the iron door closed by producers of American Gladiators. He's shocked, as am I, that his recent online campaign to drum up support for his hilarious, electrifying character "Shock!" didn't get him a slot on the show. "SHOCK! IS STILL ALIVE! Unfortunately, the Gladiators didn't pick me at the final callback; but, it was a great experience and the casting producer hopes to call in the future. He said no one has run a 40-yard dash at 275 lbs as fast as I did! I ran it in 4.8 seconds. They loved my Shock! character, but I think I was just too muscular and too hardcore for TV. Who knows? Maybe next time."
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TROY IN TRANSITION AND ON A MISSION (04/11)
The Item: Career Updates/Highlights
The Scoop: Athlete to Andrew: IFBB Pro Troy Brown hit me up with the latest in his camp. Flexing on the cover of the February 2008 issue of FLEX Magazine (US edition), the UK-born muscleman is featured inside sharing his experiences in the rookie year of his pro career. Last seen at the Ironman in February and currently in his off-season, 250-pound T-Bone tells me, "I'm eating very clean, working on weak points and training hard for the Europa in August and the Atlantic City in September. Also, I have a guest-posing appearance booked for June 28th in Alberta." Troy has seen his share of TV work and ad spots in the UK, and his latest projects involve more face-time before the camera. "I'm releasing my long-awaited DVD called 'The Beginning' this month, and I'm shooting 'day-in-the-life-of-a-pro' video footage."
The "So What?": Troy used to throw iron at Muscle Works, a hardcore gym in East London that produced great champions. He recently made a transition in home bases, hoping the trade brings new prospects. "I am in the process of switching sponsors. I had a sponsor in the UK, but now I live in Canada, so I'm on the verge of signing a new deal with a new company."
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CUTLER CALLS IT: "COMPETE A COUPLE MORE YEARS." THEN...? (04/08)
The Item: Career Updates/Projections
The Scoop: Recently reported: Last week, during an "Ask The Pros" Q&A session on the FLEX Magazine website, reigning Mr. Olympia Jay Cutler pulled out his crystal ball and made a career prediction. He announced that he will compete at the 2008 IFBB Mr. Olympia contest and at least one more time in 2009. When asked if he'd call it quits after this year's Mr. O., resilient 290-pound Cuts vowed, "If I win, I won't retire. If I lose, I won't retire. This will not be my last Olympia...I'll be on the Olympia stage in 2009. Win, lose or draw, I'll be there." Cutler's pre-game top picks for the Big Show this September: "I will win...the remaining five will be Dexter Jackson, Phil Heath, Dennis Wolf, Kai Greene. Victor, I don't know if he's competing. He will be in there if he does. Melvin could be there, maybe Silvio."
The "So What?": After his first Olympia win in 2006, many speculated that Cutler would hit it two more times and ride off into the Vegas sunset with three Mr. O. titles. His reign has tasted controversy; particularly his 2007 victory over what many considered a better-conditioned Victor Martinez, last year's runner-up.
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FOUAD FOCUSES ON A FUTURE AS A FEATURED FACE (04/04)
The Item: Career Updates/Highlights
The Scoop: Athlete to Andrew: IFBB Pro Fouad Abiad adds cover boy to his list of titles. The Canada-based trainer landed a MuscleMag International cover that hit shelves this month. "It's my first cover, of many hopefully. I am currently weighing in at 296 lbs, and I'm looking forward to the shows later this year," Fouad tells me. In addition to the cover shot, Fouad informed me that he re-signed with MuscleTech. If the supp. co. contract wasn't enough, he dropped another bomb. "I am also happy to state that I am now a member of the GASP clothing team." Being a face (and body) for the athletic-inspired brand has an added benefit for the diesel-built man they call Hoss. "GASP clothes are really the only clothes that fit me properly!" Fouad is furiously training for a Tampa Bay show in August, and then he hopes to qualify for a slot The O. in September.
The "So What?": Fouad recently celebrated his mag cover at a party at The Boom Boom Room, a Canadian nightclub. The musclehead, who occasionally rocks a Mohawk on the contest stage, is making major moves long-distance, snagging deals from Canada without making the move to Cali, the bodybuilding Mecca...yet.
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"THE BLADE" CUTS A SHARP DEAL WITH WEIDER (04/02)
The Item: Magazine Contract Signing
The Scoop: After nearly a decade in the pro game and fresh off a three-strike winning streak, IFBB Pro Dexter Jackson inked an exclusive contract with Weider Publications. Given this long-awaited partnership, The Blade is probably cuttin' a rug and doing a happy dance. Dex executed a heavy-lifting strategy with his trainer Joe McNeal to get to his current 233 lbs. With his trademark conditioning and newly added mass (7 lbs. since the 2007 Olympia), Dex fended off Phil Health — a popular, and in some circles favored, young gun — for the 2008 Arnold Classic title. After nabbing his third AC victory, The Blade sliced the competition for back-to-back wins in Australia and New Zealand. The top-placings, physical improvements and mag deal paint Jackson as a major contender to snatch the 2008 Olympia crown from Jay Cutler.
The "So What?": The real question is what took so long for a celebrated vet in the muscle trade to land an exclusive mag contract with AMI/Weider, the biggest game in town? "It's been a long time coming," Jackson says. "I really just wanted to be a part of the team. I've always wanted to be with Weider. I'm at a good point in my career right now, nearing the end of it. So I wanted to finish [the last few years] off the right way."
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"CYBER CLASSIC" UPLOADS COLOSSAL CONTESTANTS (04/01)
The Item: Bodybuilding Contest Results
The Scoop: In the digital age, the bodybuilding contest stage is a computer screen and judges make their marks with keyboard strokes. The 2nd Annual MD Cyber Classic, an online bodybuilding contest, pulled in a pool of surprisingly impressive contestants with remarkable physiques from all around the global cyberspace. These muscled-up upstarts were vying for pre-pro exposure that could jumpstart their future careers in the pro ranks. The Muscular Development Magazine staff selected four finalists: Eduardo Correa, Tarek El Setouhi, Karouani Johan Fehd and Chris Jalali. Fans picked the fifth finalist, Dan Serota, via an online vote.
The showdown went down at the MD booth at the 2008 Arnold Classic Sports Festival Expo. A chiseled combo of mass, symmetry, conditioning and quality muscle, Brazilian Eduardo Correa was awarded first place, $7,000, an MD cover and supplements from Gaspari Nutrition. He also took the middleweight class at the Arnold Amateur. The second-place finisher, Egyptian Tarek El Setouhi ($2000), is a massive athlete who also won the Super-Heavyweight division of the Arnold Amateur and beat out Correa for the Arnold Amateur Overall title.
The "So What?": Eduardo had previously qualified for pro status with a middleweight-class victory at the 2007 IFBB World Championships, but he elected to retain amateur status. This up-and-comer has landed a highly coveted spot usually reserved for new IFBB noisemakers and seasoned pros – the cover of one of the most widely read muscle mags.
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BAKER MUSCLES HIS WAY IN ON MUSCLEOLOGY (03/31)
The Item: Supplement Co. Contract Signing
The Scoop: Recently announced: IFBB Pro Paul Baker joins the promo crew at Muscleology, makers of RedtestTM and Nitro-ProTM. "Paul is a great choice to join our team," says Muscleology Pres. Mush Hussain. "He brings years of training and knowledge about sports nutrition, combined with a strong dedication and commitment to helping others achieve their nutrition goals." Paul turned pro in 2001 after his win at the Mr. Caribbean. Most recently, the muscle man I have now dubbed "The Jamaican Sensation" repped Muscleology at the 2008 Ironman in LA. Paul is pushing weight in Florida and has his guns and eyes pointed at the New York Pro Show in May. He will also hit the guest-posing circuit at several events this year including the NPC Southern States.
The "So What?": The physiology and biography of Muscleology's new mouthpiece is a BIG deal. The 6'1", 280-pounder (325 lbs. off season) is the first Jamaican to win a Pro card. "I want to work with a company that is growing, and Muscleology is the right partner," says Paul, whose involvement is key in Muscleology's distribution expansion goals.
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LEE BACK IN THE M.O.B. WITH "MD" (03/26)
The Item: Magazine Contract Re-signing
The Scoop: Just announced: Lee Priest returns to Team MD's Muscle M.O.B.! "Lee's signed an exclusive contract with Muscular Development and is currently awaiting word from the IFBB on his possible reinstatement," says Steve Blechman, Publisher of MD. Sweating out his suspension (for competing in another pro bodybuilding organization, namely the PDI) in Arizona, the tattoo-faced firebrand is pounding iron with his training partner IFBB Pro Rusty Jeffers. Lee has been in talks with IFBB Athlete's Rep Bob Cicherillo to help negotiate his way "back home" so that he will be eligible to compete at the 2008 MD Atlantic City Pro on September 13th.
The "So What?": If Lee is allowed on an IFBB stage, he plans to enter the Open class, as well as the Under 202, a relatively new class his physique and street cred could dominate.
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Bill is back! (09/21)
Bill Wilmore's bodybuilding triumph came last year when he stepped upon the IFBB stage and finished within the top 5 of his first two professional shows. Although this was a significant milestone, people have since written him off as a flash in the pan and a fly by night of the pro league. In 2007 Wilmore kicked sand in the critic's faces by coming back at the Europa Super Show, taking names and a third place finish which guaranteed him an Olympia placing, and some lost respect of his peers.
"I'm feeling good after the Europa and I am confident with my Olympia preparation. Hany Rhambod (Bill's nutritionist) has everything mapped out for me who takes off a tremendous amount of pressure and makes the whole scenario a lot easier to deal with," said Bill.
Now the critics have failed to demise Wilmore's good will, they will more than likely come out and dismiss his Olympia appearance as a fluke. Let's hope he comes out with those massive guns blazing to shoot down anyone who attempts to play down his game face.
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German Invasion (09/21)
As we went to press, four athletes representing Germany have qualified for the 2007 Mr. Olympia.
Dennis James who has finished as high as the top 5th on this stage in the past qualified by taking second to Branch Warren at the New York Pro and will be looking to redeem his disappointing 7th place at the Colorado Pro several weeks later.
Finishing one place behind Dennis James at the New York Pro was Dennis Wolf. Wolf went onto the Keystone Classic one week later to claim his first win of his professional career and in doing do has inflicted a turn of direction that the bodybuilding world could be well received. 28 year old Wolf's good looks, small waist, flaring shoulders and fantastic symmetry could be a promotional poster for the outside world.
The German giant Markus Ruhl will be creaking the Olympia stage once again when he steps up to stand shoulder to shoulder with the mass monsters. The thorn in his side will be his lack of condition through his back, hamstrings and glutes that has yet to adequately sliced for Olympia company. His recent pec tear will also be something that can pose a problem if he wants to "Ruhl" this world.
Ronny Rockel, much like Wolf has nice flowing lines balanced upon a muscular frame that is structured well for his height. His overall muscle balance is even better than Wolfs who lacks the calve, hamstring and back thickness that the rest of his body posses, but Rockel pretty much has it all. His back could use a shallow more thickness but other than that this guy has all the tools to crack the top ten given the right judiciary treatment.
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Coleman Vs Cutler (09/21)
Have you ever noticed that the people who cry about everyone's conception of the 2007 Mr. Olympia as being a two man show is the............other competitors. Some say it is boring but the media are having a field day with it. It is like a show in itself and I for one, speaking on behalf of a fans perspective see nothing wrong with it at all. After all, we are speaking of the two largest Olympian athletes, one a former Mr. Olympia, the other our current champion.
As much as this dual is physical, it is also mental. Fear has the universal advantage of making one fight or flee. On September 29th we will find out which of these universal out comes match up with Cutler and Coleman.
Last year Ronnie was clearly holding a huge amount of water where as Cutler wasn't. The notion of that small mishap could be enough to give Coleman the motivation to take back what he feels is rightfully his, but I am sure Jay will have something to say about that. Cutler is now the new champ and feels very comfortable where he is sitting and has done everything he could this past year to prevent any retaliation to second position where he has found himself standing on many occasions.
The dual between these two titans will be a battle that you wont want to miss and will go down as one of the most supreme in bodybuilding history.
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Eddie Ready to Obliterate (09/21)
Eddie Abbew is bigger than ever. At four weeks out from his Olympia debut he was weighing in at 290Ibs, looking full, healthy and very hard. "My goal is to use the same formula that I followed this year which got me my podium finish at the Ironman," the Englishman told Prosource.
A third place ranking at the Ironman Pro Show secured Eddie his Olympia invite which he has been vying for since joining the pro ranks 10 years ago. He sought the assistance of fellow IFBB Pro – Ernie Taylor which gave him the tools to come in absolutely peeled when he walked onstage earlier this year.
Eddie is a registered nurse in his native England and hopes that there will be many wounded at the 2007 Olympia following the torment and thrashing he will implement on his competition.
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Cormier CAN'T comeback (09/21)
As I reported last week in the gossip column titled "Can Comier Comeback," I asked if Chris Cormier could in fact fill out and sharpen up from his fourth placing at Montreal in time for the Atlantic City Pro which was held the following week. The answer was no.........for this year at least. Chris missed out on his Olympia qualification for 2007 and was relegated back to 7th place in a field that was much more competitive than the week prior. Melvin Anthony, David Henry and Craig Richardson all entered the fray with the contestants of last week to justify Cormier's placing. The size that Chris is holding at this moment of his career isn't nearly enough to mix with the big boys and I fear that father time has a different path to take than a successful and rejuvenated Pro career.
Cormier has been a formidable force in bodybuilding and I have learnt never to count him out even with his chips down but with his setbacks as of late I fear we have seen the best of this bodybuilding legend.
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Johnnie Reverses his Role (09/21)
One of the bridesmaids of last weeks Montreal Pro became the bride in Atlantic City and stole the show from a hugely competitive field all wanting to catch the bouquet.
Johnnie Jackson, who finished third behind Darrem Charles and Quincy Taylor in Canada last week managed to tighten up considerably and pulled on the reigns to bring the Atlantic City Pro title within striking distance. He was much fuller and considerably more shredded than seven days prior which was enough to surpass the monster of mass – Quincy Taylor and the king of condition – Darrem Charles.
This is Jackson's second pro win of his career which is a huge contrast the earlier segment of the 07 season where he finished eighth at the Keystone Classic and ninth at the Colorado Pro following a lengthily layoff. This result will surely provide him with the much needed confidence to crack the top eight at the Mr. Olympia which is now less than two weeks away.
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Melvin loses his Momentum (09/21)
Although Melvin Anthony had already qualified for the 2007 Mr. Olympia, he decided to enter the pre show fray by entering the Atlantic City Pro to take home some pocket change along the way. That literally did turn out to be pocket change as he was relegated out of the top three which has devastated the momentum of his fifth place finish at that was carrying him as a favorite challenger to climb mount Olympia.
Several inside experts such as Bob Cicherello and Allan Donelly of FLEX magazine warned that Melvin had much more to lose than to gain by taking this show in his stride. Now, Melvin will have to contend with Darrem Charles, Johnnie Jackson and David Henry, who all beat him over the weekend, before he can get his teeth sunk into his previous Olympia threats.
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Taylor trips up (09/21)
"There is no way I will compete in the Olympia without a win, I will get my ass handed to me without a victory under my belt". These are the words that Quincy Taylor spoke going into the Europa Super Show in Texas this year where he was favorite to snatch his first win. As we all know by now things didn't go as planned for the big Q.T., and a disappointing fourth place in Texas forced Taylor to sharpen his game plan and vie for his win in Montreal two weeks later. Darrem Charles showed up and spoiled the party by relegating Quincy to second and then a week later his hopes were destroyed when he finished a lowly 6th place behind Craig Richardson at Atlantic City over the weekend.
So the question remains, will Taylor stick to his first gun and pull out of the Olympia due to his vacant victory, or will he battle for supremacy within the top 10 in Vegas where he believes he so rightfully belongs. Stay tuned to Prosource to find out.
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The Gladiators are back! (9/11)
The hit T.V. show that graced our screens over a decade ago is about to grace our screens one again. The American Gladiators, which puts the average American up against the fierce force of the super athlete, has been running casting and fitness tests around Gold's gym in Venice. The producers of the original Gladiators show have been casting bodybuilders such as Gary Strydom, Marika Johansson and David Hughes amongst others which will be very exciting for the world wide audience and even better for the bodybuilding world. It has been said that the recording of the entire eight weeks series will be filmed in as little as four days. Contenders are will have their fitness test casting this coming weekend at the Venice Golds Gym.
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2008 Will Be Ronnie's Swan Song (9/11)
Get your tickets for the 2008 Mr. Olympia pronto if you want your chance to see the former eight times (and possibly nine times) champion for the last time because this will be the last occasion that Ronnie Coleman will stand upon the bodybuilding stage. "Win or lose I will not be competing at the Olympia anymore," Coleman said this week.
1997 was the year that Coleman upset the bodybuilding world and snatched the first of eight Olympia victories only to lose for the first time last year. Again, people are predicting that Ronnie is the underdog to the current champion – Jay Cutler which could spell trouble for the people in Vegas who get bitten by the betting bug. A wounded Ronnie is a dangerous one and at the end of this month we will know if those fears will push him to fight or flee.
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Darrem Dominates Again! (9/11)
The consistent veteran Darrem Charles took home the spoils once again in 2007 which seems to be an annual occasion for the balanced bruiser who is originally from Trinidad. Charles as of late has had some small issues trying to bring his back up to the ripped condition of his anterior body parts but in Montreal he seemed to find the formula to a winning combination of sliced and diced muscle all round. Most agreed that this was the best condition that Darrem had brought to date which kept up a winning streak that he has managed to uphold for the past six years. This is Darrems eight pro win to date and not expected to be the last. He goes into the Atlantic City Pro show this coming weekend in an attempt to take that record to nine.
- Can Cormier Comeback? (9/11)
Without a doubt, Cormier's 4th place at the Montreal Pro is nothing to be frowned upon. Only last year he was bed bound for weeks with a major spinal injury and was left with a dark cloud hanging over his career as a competitive bodybuilder. However, finishing out of the top three for Cormier caliber is somewhat of a let down and possibly a loss considering that he has still been hyped as the one guy who has the potential to take an Olympia title back to his LA residence. Chris showed up slightly smaller all round, most noticeably in his legs and his back and appears that he has completely torn off the left tricep which obviously hinders the symmetry that he has been known for and what he has fallen back on when his condition has let him down. The people who finished above him, Darrem Charles, Quincy Taylor and Johnnie Jackson in the past wouldn't have posed a threat to Cormier but his rise back onto the competition stage may have been a little premature.
Chris will compete in this weeks Atlantic City show to hopefully qualify for this months Mr. Olympia and to redeem himself, which I'm sure he can if he manages to dry out and fill up from his Montreal form.
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Tokyo troubles (9/10)
I don't normally write a feature that includes me but on this occasion I feel the necessity is convenient. I have just returned from a tour of Asia where I played role of a physique model for a famous celebrity photographer named Peter Svenson, and also as his assistant for the photographic seminars he was holding in each country.
Upon the arrival to our hotel in Tokyo I decided to locate a decent gym for a much needed hardcore chest workout. When I entered the conveniently equipped gym I was shocked to be told that I couldn't train in their facility and was promptly asked to leave. When I questioned why the rejection, I was told it was because I bared tattoos on my arms. After several other gym staff and the floor manager backed up this claim I told them that I would return with a long sleeve top to cover my apparently unsightly art. "No, we already know they are there and that is forbidden in this country" I was told.
I left with my tail between my legs and was reduced to an hour of plyometrics in my hotel gym which had as much helpful equipment as what was unfortunately exposed to me by the lady boys in Thailand.
I later found out that the only people in Tokyo that bare body art are those associated with the Mafia. Tattooed tourist beware.
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Robinson back with Weider (9/10)
Not quite, but he is about to grace the pages of the very magazine empire he spent years in court battling over money and principles.
The famous bust which shows Joe Weider standing proud with his arms crossed looks very impressive from all angles, rightfully so when you consider that those arms belonged to the "Black Prince", Robby Robinson. Robby posed for the bust as it was sculpted but was later left with a bitter taste in his mouth when he saw that Uncle Joe had put his own head on top of Robinsons beautifully proportioned physique. That ended up in a court confrontation, and Weider stopped putting any pictures of Robby in their magazines over fear of further legalities.
Fast forward to September, 2007 and Robby is back with a feature that is sure to stand the bodybuilding world to attention. Robby had a shoot for FLEX magazine last week training with his protégé Chris Cormier whom he is helping to prepare for the Atlantic City Pro and then hopefully onto the Olympia. At 61 years old, Robby was as ripped as Cormier which goes to show that bodybuilders can age like wine given proper supplementation, nutrition and training attention and all those very commodities are found on this very site.
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Naturaly clean comeback (9/10)
The former Arnold Classic champion and bodybuilding legend Flex Wheeler is on the verge of another comeback to the bodybuilding stage as a complete natural in an attempt to make statement of his unbelievable and superior genetic potential.
Several years ago, Flex was forced into retirement following kidney failure in which he needed a transplant to save his life. A donor from his church kindly stepped forward and Flex stepped back from bodybuilding as a competitor but moved on as a successful photo and editorial journalist. "I want to see what I can bring to the table as a drug free bodybuilder. The only thing that is holding me back is knowing there would be people relishing the chance to gloat if they beat me, which is bound to happen with my handicap," said a healthy appearing Wheeler.
Various people, including his former trainer Charles Glass, have been quick to point out that Flex shouldn't burn his candle at both ends and keep his legendary status where it is – in the past, and his health for the future
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Muscle Beach on Fire (9/10)
Labor Day weekend at bodybuilding's Mecca – Muscle Beach was hot with a buzz as was the weather. The sweltering heat didn't burn out the spirits and enthusiasm of the crowd as a sporting Icon – Jack Lalanne was entered into the Bodybuilding Hall of Fame. Jack had been the recipient of the Lifetime achievement award at the Arnold Classic this year and continues to deserve his accolades for his contribution to the sport of health, fitness and bodybuilding. "If man doesn't make it, don't eat it", he shouted to the huge Californian crowd. Former Mr. America and Pumping Iron icon – Bill Grant was also inducted and looked at least 20 years his 60 year junior as he flexed his biceps for the camera's.
Local resident Joe Tong took the overall trophy for the Labor Day amateur bodybuilding event.
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