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ANDREW OYE'S PRO-SOURCE PRO-MUSCLE REPORT
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BIG O'S POSE AT ATLANTIC STATES SHOW (06/04)
The Item: Guest Posing Appearance
The Scoop: Recently Announced: The 2009 NPC Atlantic States Bodybuilding, Fitness, Figure & Bikini Championships goes down this weekend on June 6th at the Tribecca Performing Arts Center at the Borough of Manhattan Community College in New York City. Promoted by Bev Francis and Steve Weinberger, the event will also see three of the most recent winners of the sport's grandest title, Mr. Olympia, take the stage as guest-posing performers.
The "So What?": Reigning Mr. Olympia Dexter Jackson, 2-time Mr. O. Jay Cutler, and fan fave 8-time Mr. O. Ronnie Coleman will show some IFBB-level muscle to the amateur competitors who someday hope to be in their positions. The event is a national qualifier.
Andrew Oye's verdict: A trifecta of Big O's equals a Big Halftime Show.
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EVAN & ENGLISH EXCEL AT NEW YORK PRO (05/18)
The Item: Contest Results
The Scoop: Just announced: Big muscle took a bite out of the Big Apple over the weekend, as the IFBB New York Pro Bodybuilding Championships witnessed the crowning of a first-timer and a repeater. Rookie IFBB Pro Evan Centopani snagged 1st place in the Open Division, his first victory on a pro stage. The 27-year-old had been a passenger on the pre-debut-hype train since turning pro in 2007. While in need of a bit more polish, Centopani has begun to make his mark with a decent structure highlighted by full quad sweeps. Dennis James pushed his way into 2nd place. James boasts gigantic delts but is more impressive from the rear with his billboard-sized lat span. Flexing his way out of a year-and-a-half retirement, the 275-pound German beast and 2002 NY Pro champ Markus Ruhl returned with bubbly thickness and a carved mid-section that earned him the 3rd place spot…much to the chagrin of many in the mass-obsessed New York crowd.
In the 202 Division, IFBB Pro Kevin English used grainy conditioning to win 1st place -- a familiar position for the winner of this same division at last year’s NY Pro. Mark Dugdale landed in 2nd place and rocked impressive intercostals and obliques when flexed. Despite his notable symmetry, the supposed King of the 202, David Henry, landed in 3rd place.
The "So What?": Centopani’s unlikely “out-of-the-gate” win at a pro show is reminiscent of the surprising win of Phil Heath whilst making his pro debut at the 2006 Colorado Pro at 26 years old.
Andrew Oye's verdict: With an evening full of comebacks, upsets and surprises, the NY Pro was just as unpredictable as the eclectic city that is its host.
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PRO MUSCLE REPORT ON PRO MUSCLE RADIO (05/16)
The Item: Radio Show Highlights
The Scoop: I will occasionally post reviews on the content and guests on "Pro Muscle Radio," the new program hosted by IFBB Pros Richard "Tricky" Jackson and Jose Raymond. In recent weeks, highlights include the following: IFBB Pro Jonathan Rowe chats about his experience at the Orlando Pro Show. IFBB Pro Brian Chamberlain popped in and talked about his tats. Jose Raymond reports on his preparation for his pro debut at the New York Pro (May 16). At 5'4", Raymond plans to present 186 lbs of muscle in the 202 & Under Class. IFBB Pro and Hawaiian-native Chris Faldo reminisces about competing in the Team Universe. After 27 years in the game, Faldo has yet to compete as a pro and now focuses on doing exhibitions. IFBB Pro David Henry praises the addition of the 202 Division. Preparing for the Team Universe, bodybuilder and bodybuilding industry writer Ron Harris plugs his how-to book Real Bodybuilding and reminisced about the TV highlights from ESPN's "American Muscle."
The "So What?": IFBB Pro Leo Ingram appeared on last weekend's program. Ingram, who is sponsored by Six Star Muscle, retired from the U.S. Navy last year after 20 years of service to focus on bodybuilding. He won the Overall at the 2006 North American Bodybuilding Championships to earn his pro card. Ingram plans to hit the New York Pro stage this weekend at about 260 lbs. He placed 8th at the NY Pro last year. PMR airs Sundays at 6 pm eastern time, and links to the show can be found on www.blogtalkradio.com.
Andrew Oye's verdict: So far, PMR is providing good talk by folks fans don't hear a lot from on a regular basis. Keep giving voice to the in-the-trenches athletes, guys.
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SPONSOR DEEMS DIXON DESRVING OF A DEAL (05/21)
The Item: Supplement Co. Contract Signing
The Scoop: Just announced: IFBB Pro Charles Dixon signs a deal with American Body Building, joining its roster of sponsored athletes. "Charles brings a long history of contest success to the ABB Team," says Bob Corbett, Tradeshow & Athletes Manager for American Body Building. "From his first big win at the 2003 NPC Junior USA Championships in Charleston to his plans for the future, we're excited about following Charles' continued progress as an IFBB Pro Bodybuilder and ABB Athlete."
The "So What?": Dixon earned his pro card at the 2007 NPC Nationals competing in the Light-Heavyweight Division. As a pro, he now tears it up in the 202 & Under Division, which, as he told me when I interviewed him at the 2008 Olympia Weekend, is more of a fair fight for competitive bodybuilders like him.
Andrew Oye's verdict: As companies sign more 202 athletes, it will be interesting to see whether they start marketing products with messages aimed at customers who aspire to reach that size and not just those who long to be "mass monsters." Hmmm.
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PUMPING PUTNAM PICKS UP SPONSORSHIP PACKAGE (05/08)
The Item: Supplement Co. Contract Signing
The Scoop: Just announced: IFBB Pro Peter Putnam signs a supplement endorsement contract with Champion Nutrition. "Team Champion welcomes Peter to be a member of our athlete team," says Mark Post, President of Champion Nutrition. "He is not only a highly acclaimed professional bodybuilder, personal trainer and nutrition expert; he is a respected individual who will represent us well." Champion Nutrition recently announced a licensing agreement with the MMA lifestyle brand TapouT. "I am thrilled to be joining the team at Champion Nutrition as I begin my career in the IFBB Professional League," says Putnam. "With the support of Champion I feel confident that I will be able to further my impact on the bodybuilding community. I look forward to representing Champion, while striving in my competitions to be the Champion!"
The "So What?": Peter "Pump" Putnam is the 2004 NPC Collegiate Nationals Champion, 2007 NPC USA Light-Heavyweight Champion and 2008 NPC National Light-Heavyweight Champion. He belongs to a small group of bodybuilders to claim all three national titles. During the 2008 NPC Nationals, Peter received the inaugural "Steve Stone - Heart of a Champion Award."
Andrew Oye's verdict: As an amateur, Putnam was perceived as the "great hope" for those seeking a new high-profile, fair-haired American pro on the competitive bodybuilding scene. With the new pro card, cover-boy status and a new sponsorship contract, time will tell if Putnam is as great as some hope for him to be.
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CORREA CLAIMS A COOL WIN AT PITTSBURGH PRO (05/06)
The Item: Contest Results
The Scoop: Just announced: Over the weekend, IFBB Pro Eduardo Correa claimed his first pro contest victory in the Under 202 Division at the 2009 Pittsburgh Pro Bodybuilding Championships. In the last year, Correa has packed on noticeable mass while maintaining a decent V-taper. He used the added size to out-muscle Mark Dugdale, knocking the pre-show favored contender to 2nd place. Marking his first tangle in the 202 Division, Dugdale only slightly bested 3rd place finisher Jason Arntz who possessed a great lat flare but looked in need of deeper cuts all over. All three athletes secured slots for the 202 Showdown at the 2009 Olympia Weekend.
The "So What?": The guest-poser lineup at the Pittsburgh Pro was a star-studded roster that included reigning Mr. Olympia Dexter Jackson, 8-time Mr. Olympia Ronnie Coleman, 2-time Mr. Olympia Jay Cutler, and top IFBB Pros Kai Greene, Toney Freeman, Dennis Wolf, Victor Martinez, Branch Warren, Phil Heath and King Kamali.
Andrew Oye's verdict: While a lot of Olympia-caliber beef was displayed onstage during halftime, I'm sure Correa and his fellow competitors were glad their 202 Division was created to separate them from their "giant guests."
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TRICKY TRANSMITS TRUE TALK VIA PRO MUSCLE RADIO (04/28)
The Item: Career Updates/Highlights/Radio Show
The Scoop: Athlete to Andrew: I caught up with my buddy IFBB Pro Richard "Tricky" Jackson, fresh off his Easter weekend guest-posing stint in Birmingham, AL, to get the scoop on his latest venture – an online radio chat fest called "Pro Muscle Radio." With the plethora of sports-talk radio shows clogging the Net's airwaves, is there room for another? According to Tricky, the answer is yes, especially given the mission of PMR. "I created a show for the athlete by the athlete," says Tricky. "PMR will give exposure to more underexposed athletes, including national-level male and female bodybuilders, figure, fitness and bikini competitors."
The "So What?": PMR will also focus on bodybuilders in the 202 Division, the class in which Tricky competes. IFBB Pro Jose Raymond co-hosts PMR, and the show includes segments by IFBB Pros Tracy Beckham and Carlo Filippone. PMR airs Sundays at 6 pm eastern time on www.posedownmag.com. Upcoming episodes include guests such as Chris Faldo, David Henry, Mike Valentino, Leo Ingram, Nicole Wilkins and many more.
Andrew Oye's verdict: I caught PMR's premiere episode. Tricky is not only a good poser; he's also a good gabber, along with Raymond. After the infant-stage glitches are ironed out, it should be a cool show.
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AT LAST, ALVES ACES ALL AT EUROPA SHOW OF CHAMPS (04/19)
The Item: Contest Results
The Scoop: Just announced: Over the weekend, Orlando, Florida played host to a muscle battle – the debut of the Europa Show of Champions. IFBB Pro Troy Alves claimed the first 1st place victory of his professional bodybuilding career, displaying 225 pounds of well-conditioned muscle on his 5'8" frame. Japan's Hiidetada Yamagishi gave Alves a fight, with bigger wheels that some felt could have or should have edged out the champ. Super poser Darrem Charles' usual razor-sharpness had dulled a bit, landing him a respectable 3rd place finish. All three athletes secured slots at the 2009 Mr. Olympia contest.
The "So What?": Alves carried an "underdog" story with him onto the stage. The 42-year-old, Arizona-based iron-pumper possesses a nice blend of the SCAM elements (Symmetry, Conditioning, Aesthetics and Mass), including rounded shoulders on a trunk that funnels down to a narrow waist; yet, he has continually wallowed in lower spots in about two dozen pro contest lineups, including placing 11th at the Ironman Pro in January. Some speculated that it was due to an inability to dice up his hamstring—glute connection. Alves was a sentimental favorite for the win.
Andrew Oye's verdict: From the impression he gives in his Muscletime Titans DVD "D Troy" to his friendly persona at events, Alves seems to be a good guy with a good physique simply trying to be a good bodybuilder. I say, good for him.
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KAI KEEPS COLLECTING KUDOS AT AUSSIE PRO SHOW (03/15)
The Item: Contest Results
The Scoop: Just announced: As anticipated, expected and suspected, USA's Kai Greene was named the winner of the 2009 Australian Pro Grand Prix over the weekend. In his first trip to "kangaroo country," Kai brought nearly the same package that had won the Arnold Classic a week prior. Repping Spain, Silvio Samuel placed 2nd, creeping ahead of 3rd place finisher, USA's Toney Freeman, who he had finished behind at the Arnold Classic. While Greene, Samuel, and Freeman all presented full, sculpted bodies, the champ edged out the others with knobby thickness, power quads, and sheer career momentum.
The "So What?": IFBB Pros Moe El Moussawi, Dennis James, and hometown hero Lee Priest all withdrew from this contest and took with them any real threat to the Top 3 guys. Two athletes making their pro bodybuilding debuts, Aussie/Greek Mike Kefalianos and Australia's Ivan Sadek, took the 4th and 5th slots, respectively. Andrew Oye's verdict: Aside from 7th place finisher Rusty Jeffers, the Top 3 athletes were the only competitors with widely recognizable names (and physiques), thus, any other final result would have been the only shocker.
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DOWN-AND-OUT DENNIS DITCHES AUSSIE PRO SHOW DOWN UNDER (03/10)
The Item: Illness Updates/Contest Lineup
The Scoop: Just Announced: IFBB Pro Dennis James has withdrawn his name from the list of competitors in the 2009 Australia Grand Prix (March 14). The 5'8" 260-pound German cites illness, specifically pneumonia, as the reason for the withdrawal from the contest "down under" in Aussie Land. James placed 7th at the Arnold Classic last weekend.
The "So What?": James's last showing at the Australian Grand Prix was in 2001 when he placed 2nd behind IFBB Pro Chris Cormier. Some expected James to likely receive at least a Top 5 placing. This announcement comes on the heels of the withdrawal of IFBB Pro Lee Priest from the same show. Andrew Oye's verdict: With a lineup that still includes the likes of IFBB Pros Silvio Samuel, Toney Freeman, and 2009 Arnold Classic champ Kai Greene, the show will prove to be no less exciting.
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HAMAN HAMS IT UP WITH HIS "INCREDIBLE" FAMILY (03/10)
The Item: Special Appearance
The Scoop: Athlete to Andrew: IFBB Pro Andy Haman is a crazy dude (crazy in a good way), but he's my good buddy and I love him for that. He proved his craziness yet again when he and his family appeared at the 2009 Arnold Sports Festival Expo dressed, or rather painted, as "The Incredibles" from the hit animated film. So I had to ask the insane one how his latest idea came about. "I was invited by Jan Tana to appear at her booth to promote her new tanning products and equipment," Haman tells me. "She allowed me to also promote my incredible new training DVD ‘It's All Lighting!' So, I thought what better stunt to pull than to become Incredible!"
Haman says his wife and kids are truly the incredible ones, so he made the stunt a family affair. "We transformed into the Disney superhero gang thanks to Jan Tana's crew and Enchanted Painting, and we took the expo by storm!" It took about four hours to complete the body-painting process on the family of six, including covering all of Haman's 270 pounds of muscle. "All the painting was done in front of expo fans as they walked by, and it was a huge draw! People of all ages stopped and took pictures and talked with us as we went through two galloons of red paint!"
The "So What?": The crowd reaction was just what Haman plans for when he dreams up these concepts for his special appearances and guest-posing routines. "I was in character the whole time and fans loved all the fun acting and silliness. The family took photos with Muscle Mag's Robert Kennedy, the Incredible Hulk Lou Ferrigno, Dymatize, Mr. Olympia Dexter Jackson and, of course, Prosource and Supreme Protein Bars!"
Haman is still trying to parlay his personality into more TV/film gigs. For all his craziness, the big man's heart is in the right place. "My children were stars for the day and I know they will never forget this one. We're still red. Red boogers for the next week I'm sure." He wants to use his mass to bring smiles to the masses. "If we can't have fun and act silly around other bodybuilders and fans, then our work is really to no avail with the general public. So smile and have some fun!" Haman thanks fans for their continued support as he prepares for the Europa Pro in Orlando followed by the New York Pro. Andrew Oye's verdict: Expect more crazy stuff from the pumped Colorado clown. When asked what he has in store for his next appearance, Haman replied in his typical fashion, "Easy now. You'll just have to wait, brother!" Be afraid, very afraid.
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ARNOLD CLASSIC 2009: THE MUSCLE WORLD'S FINEST AND ITS FUTURE (03/09)
The current posing king gets another crown. Kai "Lion Slayer" Greene was crowned the overall winner of the 21st Annual Arnold Classic Bodybuilding Championships in Columbus, OH, this past weekend. The Veterans Memorial Auditorium was the scene of a stacked lineup – a roster stacked with mountains upon mountains of pro muscle competing for a major bodybuilding title bestowed by one of the sport's legends.
The champ entered the fray with a groundswell of fan support. There were grumblings that health issues would prevent him from taking the stage. Yet, Greene had enjoyed a prosperous 2008 – going from struggling athlete to sponsored star with a publishing deal and a supplement company contract. Greene, who placed 3rd at last year's Arnold Classic, took this year's crown by sporting full, round muscle bellies that mushroomed all over his frame. His low hanging lats enhance the visual effect of a tapered waist that flows into sweeping quads and hanging hams. Greene performed his signature theatrical posing style that we explored in my article series "The Art of War," which yielded yet another Best Poser Award.
2007 Arnold Classic champ Victor Martinez was favored by many, if only for the fact that he had overcome a patella tear that caused him to miss the 2008 Mr. Olympia. Martinez is a thick dude with a rock-solid upper body. While there was a bit of leg imbalance and his conditioning could've been a just bit more diced, the Dominican Dominator had a decent showing on the Muscle Stage that helped him capture 2nd place.
Branch Warren, who placed 4th at last year's Arnold Classic, overcame a triceps injury to claim 3rd place this year. He bulldozed onto stage with his usual slabs-o-muscle density and thick-as-phone-poles wheels that earned him the Most Muscular Award. Yet, his power build doesn't allow for the visual effect of widely flaring lats. While his conditioning was relatively sharp, unfortunately, this can sometimes get overlooked in the face of athletes who move with more so-called "grace." That's just not the big Texan's style.
A well--conditioned, graceful-posing, Toney Freeman – who always gets my award for the most interesting posing trunks – took 4th place. The X-man always makes a fashion statement as well as a physical statement. Despite the pec tear, this man has a top-tier physique and presence to match.
But what is a man who displays all of the physical elements of SCAM (Symmetry, Conditioning, Aesthetics and Mass) to do? Fifth-place finisher Silvio Samuel has all the goods, but mass aficionados still say his muscle mass is not quite massive enough to win a show of this caliber. Because El Matador looked great and placed out of the Top 3, mass conspiracy theorists may be right.
While the Arnold Sports Festival's three-day weekend included a plethora of athletics – including powerlifting, gymnastics, MMA, strongman, arm wrestling and archery – there is always a curiosity as to whether the popularity of the chosen sport of the event's creator is waning or growing. Andrew Oye's verdict: When die-hard fans see the caliber of future pros like the Super-heavyweight and Overall winner of the Arnold Amateur Bodybuilding Contest Egberton Etienne-Wink – who smiled through every pose – they can only hope there is stage for him and peers…and an audience to applaud their efforts.
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KAI GREENE CROWNED 2009 ARNOLD CLASSIC CHAMP (03/07)
The Item: Contest Results Bulletin
The Scoop: Just Announced: On March 7, 2009, at the Veterans Memorial Auditorium in Columbus, OH, Kai "Lion Slayer" Greene was crowned the overall winner of the 21st Annual Arnold Classic Bodybuilding Championships. Fan favorite Victor Martinez placed 2nd in the big show. Big Branch Warren finished 3rd in the lineup.
A full event report will follow shortly.
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MUSCLE MOE MAKES A MATCH WITH WEIDER (03/06)
The Item: Magazine Contract Signing
The Scoop: Just Announced: Just Announced: IFBB Pro Moe El Moussawi inks a contract with Weider Publications. "Being a Weider athlete means I'm one of the top guys," says El Moussawi. "It gives me positive energy to go all the way to the top." The 34-year-old, New Zealand resident finished 9th at the 2008 Olympia and most recently placed 2nd at the 2009 Ironman Pro, his highest placing in his five years in the pro ranks.
The "So What?": El Moussawi's signing to Team Weider puts him in the company of Mr. Olympia Dexter Jackson, two-time Mr. Olympia Jay Cutler, Phil Heath, Silvio Samuel, Melvin Anthony and Dennis James. The deal comes just in time for the Arnold Classic (March 6-8) in Columbus, Ohio, where the 5'9", 240-pound muscleman hopes to improve from his 11th place finish at the 2008 Arnold Classic. About his Weider contract, El Moussawi says, "As far as my career, it's more of a prize of what I've achieved lately." Andrew Oye's verdict: Seems like Moe is a low-key dude who'll need to step his hype game to match the buzz that surrounds his fellow Team Weider athletes. Maybe this news is the beginning of that.
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BIG TROY BROWN BAGS A BIG SPONSORSHIP (03/05)
The Item: Supplement Co. Contract Signing
The Scoop: Just Announced: IFBB Pro Troy Brown signs a supplement endorsement contract with Allmax Nutrition. I contacted my buddy Troy for the scoop on how the deal went down. "I just kept on the [Allmax reps]," says the determined Englishman. "I approached them last year. It was what I was hoping for. I am absolutely thrilled to be part of such a great company." The sponsorship will keep big Brown busy with appearances. "They are flying me out to the Arnold Classic to appear at the Allmax booth, which I am so excited about as I have never been to the Arnold before."
The "So What?": The Team Allmax contract comes at a good time for the Canada-based muscle-builder who turned pro at the 2006 British Championships. T-Bone often shares with me his desires to increase his presence on the pro bodybuilding. "I'm going to be at the shows in the States and working for my new sponsor. I am hoping for more photo shoots too this year and wishing for more magazine coverage. I am also still working on my new training DVD." Currently sitting at 252 lbs. and working on improvements in the gym, Brown hopes to hit the contest stage in the fall of this year. "Training is going very well. I'm happy with the gains I have made so far. I want a good placing in my next show. I intend to get noticed. My goal is to qualify for the 2010 Mr. Olympia!" Andrew Oye's verdict: Well deserved for an all-around nice guy who lives for the sport and lives by the quote: "Follow your bliss!"
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BEN WHITE BITES ON A BIG CONTRACT (02/23)
The Item: Supplement Co. Contract Signing
The Scoop: Just Announced: IFBB Pro Ben White signs a multi-year exclusive supplement endorsement contract with Team Nutrabolics. "We are thrilled to welcome Ben White to the Nutrabolics family," says Rodney Dupont, President of Nutrabolics. "He is an exceptional individual with unparalleled athletic abilities and a true passion for the sport of bodybuilding."
White will make his debut as a pitchman for the Canada-based brand at the Nutrabolics booth at the Arnold Classic Expo (March 6-8). "I am very happy to be part of such a great team of athletes," says White. "As everyone knows I took the whole 2008 off to work on improving and perfecting my physique. I have made great strides and gains and I look forward to competing in the 2009 IFBB schedule in the best shape of my career."
The "So What?": The 5'8", 250-pound New York native dubbed "ShowStopper" was the talk in bodybuilding circles when he fulfilled his own prophecy and became the 2007 NPC USA Overall Champion. He then loudly predicted victory at his pro debut contest, but fell short and placed 6th at the 2008 New York Pro. Andrew Oye's verdict: Though the word is White's hyperbolic bravado was a pro-boxing-style publicity stunt to drum-up hype, for his next stop on the Muscle Stage - the 2009 New York Pro - he might want to just let the titles do the talking.
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PAKULSKI POSSESSES PROMISING PRESENCE AS A NEW PRO (02/19)
The Item: Career Updates/Highlights
The Scoop: Athlete to Andrew: I saw rookie IFBB Pro Ben Pakulski at the 2008 Olympia Weekend. The 5'10", 254-pound, platinum-haired tank had just earned his pro card earlier that month by winning the Super-Heavyweight Class and Overall title at the Canadian Bodybuilding Championships. I thought he was there scoping out his future competition, but today he informs that his motives were more innocent. "I love the Olympia Weekends. What's better than surrounding yourself with 50,000 like-minded people who are in a great mood and want to have a great time? Just being there motivates me!"
Motivation and a willingness to change should help the promising Pakulski on his road to pro bodybuilding stardom. "One week prior to winning the Canadian Nationals, I did the North Americans and wasn't at my best. I got some advice, tried a few new things, and, no joke, was 12 lbs heavier in a week!" These kind of results prompted the folks at MuscleMag to fly Pakulski to Venice Beach for his first magazine cover shoot. Pakulski recently celebrated the release of his February 2009 cover at a bash at Atelier Niteclub in Toronto. The party doubled as a fundraiser for a children's hospital.
The "So What?": This power-packed physique is primed for prominence. Pakulski is in negotiations with potential sponsors and his website benpakulski.com launches next month. His 2009 contest schedule includes 3 or 4 shows in the fall, the first being the Tampa Pro. "Training has never been better," he tells me. "I'm very healthy and growing in all the right places. I'm getting ready for a full-on assault on the pro scene for my first full year! My goal is to take people by surprise! People in this sport will soon know my name!" Andrew Oye's verdict: Because beefy Ben's assault includes some of the best-built wheels in the biz, in my opinion, this young bull will surely have his name thrown about in the Pro Muscle stratosphere.
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PAINED PRIEST PULLS OUT OF AUSSIE PRO SHOW (02/11)
The Item: Injury Updates/Contest Lineup
The Scoop: Just announced: IFBB Pro Lee Priest has announced that he will not be competing at the 2009 IFBB Australian Pro Grand Prix (March 14). This news comes on the heels of his decision to skip the upcoming Arnold Classic (March 7) and is a disappointment to fans awaiting his return to the Muscle Stage. Priest is scheduled to undergo surgery this week in Australia to repair a torn tendon, which, according to Priest, needs "to be screwed back on to the bone and stitched." Post-surgery, Priest's arm will be immovable for a six-week stretch, but he intends to attend the Australian Pro Grand Prix as a non-competitor and greet his fans
The "So What?": The Australian Pro was supposed to mark Priest's first crack at a potential 2009 Olympia qualification, as well as his big comeback following his IFBB reinstatement. Andrew Oye's verdict: For a man who was supposed to reenter the game and dominate the new 202 Divisions, Priest may need to pray the worldwide bodybuilding community still cares, especially if this pattern of pre-show hype followed by "no show" news continues.
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SAMUEL SLIDES INTO WINNER'S SLOT AT IRONMAN PRO (01/26)
The Item: Contest Results
The Scoop: Just announced: Over the weekend, rain wet the streets of L.A., but it didn't dampen Silvio Samuel's path to a first place finish at the 2009 Ironman Pro Invitational. By day, the Los Angeles Convention Center played host to the L.A. Fitness Expo, which teemed with fans seeking product samples, fitness info and events (like powerlifting, seminars, and game show castings). At night, the venue was the site of a special appearance by 6-time Ms. Olympia Cory Everson and a not-so-brutal Muscle Stage battle.
USA's Samuel bounced back from his 4th place finish at this same event in 2008 to claim a seemingly "easy" victory. While 2nd place finisher New Zealand's Moe El Moussawi out-massed the champ, Samuel, brought his usual well-balanced combo of SCAM (Symmetry, Conditioning, Aesthetics and Mass) including a tight V-taper and glute striations. Super-sharp conditioning, or the lack thereof, seemed to be a factor for rest of the field, including 3rd place finisher Germany's Ronny Rockel, who needed tightening from the rear view. In his first stage appearance since last year's personal troubles, Japan's Hidetada Yamagishi used symmetry to take 4th place and a Mr. O. qualification. Ahmad "Abzilla" Haider rocked his impressive washboard midsection to finish 5th.
The "So What?": 2009's event marked the 20th Anniversary of the Ironman Pro contest and the pro debut of Lebanon's Mohammad Bannout, cousin to notable IFBB Pro Samir Bannout. The only other competitor to truly nail his conditioning, Bannout finished in 7th place. Andrew Oye's verdict: Here's hoping the overall impression of the first pro show of the year doesn't necessarily set the tone for the rest of 2009.
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PRO WRESTLER/ACTOR PAUL E. NORMOUS PASSES AWAY (01/19/2009)
Last Friday, I received a phone call informing me that Paul P. Fuchs III, also known as "Paul E. Normous" in the world of professional wrestling, died that day, January 16, 2009.
Police were called to his parents' New York home at 5:20 a.m. after Fuchs' girlfriend found him "unresponsive" in bed. Detectives reported that Fuchs' family members were performing CPR on the 33-year-old athlete when emergency personnel arrived, but Fuchs was pronounced dead at 6:18 a.m. at Good Samaritan Hospital.
Awaiting an autopsy by the Rockland County Medical Examiner's Office, police called his passing a medically related death. I had been informed by a mutual friend that Fuchs suffered from sleep apnea. Though I don't know the details of Fuchs' case, in general, sleep apnea is a disruption of breathing while asleep.
Experts say 90% of people who have sleep apnea don't know that they have it. Although episodes of choking or gasping for air might occur hundreds of times throughout the night, a sufferer may not have any recollection of struggling for breath. Usually it is the bed partner who first notices that the person is struggling to breathe. If left untreated, this common disorder can be life threatening.
As a 6'5" and nearly 300-pound pro wrestler, Fuchs portrayed a muscular, menacing persona in the ring as "Paul E. Normous." This was a testament to his skills as an actor - another one of his many pursuits - because the man behind the persona was a gentle giant, a caring individual with an interest in art and physical therapy, as well as a soft spot in his heart for animals.
I was recently getting to know "Paul E. Normous," via the cyber-world. I was launching the website for MUSCLE INK, a media company that celebrates bodybuilding and body art. Fuchs had approached me about an interview. Given his charisma, physical stature and outstanding tattoos, I thought the timing was perfect to include Fuchs as part of the Elite MUSCLE INK Crew.
Fuchs seemed genuinely excited to be a part of my relatively new venture and even left me the following comment: "Wow! The site looks great. Keep it coming!" Indeed, I had hoped the site would be another avenue to help him promote his rising career and connect with more fans. Now I'm sad that I'll never know what could have become of the burgeoning friendship and industry relationship.
In what was probably his final interview (conducted via email on 12.25.08 and posted 01.01.09), Fuchs was the subject of an article I called "Triple Threat Warrior," addressing his accomplishments and ambitions as a bodybuilder, pro wrestler and actor.
Unfortunately, those ambitions will not be realized because they left with the man himself. As a tribute to the determined and versatile warrior, I would like to post that article here.
I extend my deepest condolences to his parents, Paul and Adrienne, and his brother, Justin, as well as the rest of his family, friends and fans.
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CUTLER RECRUITS NEW COACH TO HIS CAMP (12/30)
The Item: Training/Contest Preparation
The Scoop: Just announced: IFBB Pro and two-time Mr. Olympia Jay Cutler will finally shuffle the cards in his deck and add trainer Hany Rambod to in his training camp. Referred to as a "contest-prep guru" and the "Pro Creator," Rambod hopes to ram Cutler's bod during the 2009 off-season and create a pro worthy of a 2009 Olympia crown. Cutler picked up the horn and called on Rambod for his Fascia Stretch Training-Seven System, a.k.a the FST-7. Rambod has used the muscle-growth system to tweak the bods of IFBB Pros Ray Arde, Curtis Bryant, Omar Deckard, Mike Dragna, Gus Malliarodakis, Leo Ingram, Quincy Taylor, Idrise Ward-El, and Bill Wilmore.
The "So What?": This is the first time in his long career that Cutler has switched trainers. The word is Cuts enlisted a new coach to retool his physique in preparation for a 2009 re-match with IFBB Pro Dexter Jackson, the reigning Mr. O. who dethroned him in '08. Andrew Oyes's verdict: Can a system used to create "new" pros suddenly "re-create" the physique of an athlete who has supposedly reached his physical "best" to attain two Olympia titles? Nothing's impossible, so we shall see.
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PRIEST PASSES ON POSING AT 2009 ARNOLD CLASSIC (12/08)
The Item: Career Updates/Contest Schedule
The Scoop: Just announced: IFBB Pro Lee Priest officially announced that he will forgo competing at the 2009 Arnold Classic (March 7) in favor of competing in back-to-back contests the following week, the IFBB Australian Pro Grand Prix (March 14) and the IFBB New Zealand South Pacific Pro (March 15).
For the muscled Aussie native, the reason to stage his comeback "at home" is simple. "I don't want to fly all the way to the U.S. to do the Arnold only to have to turn around and come right back 6 days later," says Priest of his decision to skip a major competition like the Arnold Classic in Columbus, OH, for his return to the IFBB stage.
The "So What?": Priest has been on a nearly 3-year hiatus from the professional bodybuilding stage. Upon the announcement of his IFBB reinstatement this past summer, many speculated he would make his "re-debut" at the 2008 Olympia 202 Showdown. Because neither the Australian Pro Grand Prix nor New Zealand Pro host an Under 202 Division, Priest must score an Open Division Top 3 placing to obtain his 2009 Olympia qualification. Andrew Oye's verdict: Because Lee has stood next to the big boys before there was even the thought of a 202 Class, I doubt he's intimidated by the super-sized competition. Soon, we'll see if the hype was worth the wait.
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HAMAN HITS HIGH NOTES WITH HIGH-PROFILE FEATURES (11/25)
The Item: Career Updates/Highlights
The Scoop: Athlete to Andrew: I checked in with my good friend and long-time cyber-buddy IFBB Pro Andy Haman for the scoop on the gigs that are putting his face (and body) out there and upping his profile as a physique athlete. Of his experience at the 2008 Olympia Weekend, Haman told me, "It was very fun! One, I finally met you! My wife and I traveled with our childhood friends, the Hecks, and we made a time of it! I met fans, had a MuscleMag photo shoot, and danced without the kids!"
Haman lands his first magazine cover, appearing on the December 2008 issue of World Physique Magazine in a feature titled "Andy Haman's Mountain of Muscle." The humorous 6-foot powerhouse, who currently tips the scale at 280 lbs., claims, "I think the title refers to the amount of mass I carry! Unlike anyone else in the IFBB, I am the biggest, most-muscular, most-ripped, crazy son-of-a-bitch around. Actually, it probably refers to the mountainous amount of muscle I carry on my ass! Who knows?! But I like it!"
In addition to his new gig contributing an opinion column and answering fan questions in World Physique, Haman is also a featured model/athlete for my lifestyle/media brand Andrew Oye's MUSCLE INK™ - The Official Home of Bodybuilding, Body Art and Bold Media. Up next for "Iron Head" is a tentative 2009 contest schedule that includes, "The Arnold, the Europa, the Tampa Pro, the Olympia - Whoo Hee! - then the World Championships in Berlin, Germany!"
See Andy Haman's guest-posing video at www.Andyhaman.com and check him out on Andrew Oye's MUSCLE INK™ at www.myspace.com/muscleink
The "So What?": For his fun, over-the-top style, Haman is gaining a name as a sought-after guest poser. His last stint at the Carla Sanchez Fitness Fiesta had a Halloween theme. "It was silly, with a ‘weird scientist' flair! Carla has never had a bodybuilder guest pose but, for the entertainment value, she thought my routine with the kids was good for her show with only fitness and figure competitors!" Andrew Oye's verdict: A versatile persona who can go from hardcore to humble (and who says things like, "I did a 675-pound bench press and a 800-pound squat, and I was driven to tears during the movie WALL-E!"), Haman is bound for a big 2009.
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NATIONALS AWARDS NUNN & NAMES NEWBIE PROS (11/24)
The Item: Contest Results
The Scoop: Just Announced: Over the weekend, Edward Nunn seized the Overall title at the NPC National Bodybuilding & Figure Championships in my old stomping grounds of Atlanta, GA.
For the purpose of ease, going forward, I will occasionally refer to the physical elements athletes present for judging in shorthand as SCAM - Symmetry, Conditioning, Aesthetics and Mass. (In this case, Aesthetics refer to things like Proportion, Lines and Flow.) We'll see if it catches on.] By a unanimous vote, Nunn won the Super Heavyweight class with SCAM elements on an X-frame, with bulbous delts and impressive quad sweeps. In addition to Nunn, the top athletes in each weight class were issued IFBB pro cards.
Heavyweight winner Mike Liberatore took his class with a unanimous vote and the symmetry component of the SCAM physique criteria. Light Heavyweight winner Peter Putnam had a merely decent showing with a set of big legs that carried him through. Middleweight winner Guy Cisternino managed to take the conditioning cake in a battle with fellow middleweights who possessed other elements of the SCAM above him. Welterweight winner Jocelyn Jean edged out his nearest competition by a single point in the judges' scoring - a tapered torso enhanced the illusion of an otherwise narrow physique. Lightweight winner Marvin Ward bumped up from the Bantamweight class, and he brought the SCAM on a 5'2" frame with a miniscule waist. Bantamweight winner, 145-pound Scott Foster rocked a SCAM physique for the little guys.
The "So What?": In addition to the 26-year-old contest hosting the largest number of competitors in its history (over 400), the event featured a moving memorial tribute to the late Steve Stone, a well-regarded expeditor of NPC contests. Andrew Oye's verdict: Judging by the majority of the weight-class winners' physiques, perhaps Dexter Jackson's crowning as the new Mr. Olympia is having a trickle down effect in the NPC?
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JEFFERS JUST KEEPS JAZZING UP HIS POSING ACT (11/14)
The Item: Career Updates/Guest Posing Appearance
The Scoop: Athlete to Andrew: I caught up with my buddy IFBB Pro Rusty Jeffers, who recently performed as the guest poser at the Western Regional Bodybuilding Championships on November 1. Jeffers earned his pro card at the 2004 Masters Nationals, one week after the USA. "Half the guys at the USA were there," Jeffers recalls. "I got 2nd at the USA to Chris Cook. He was smoother than a baby's ass, but he was signed with Weider; so, I had to go the next week to get the card denied me!!! I wasn't even going to go!"
The 44-year-old, Arizona resident is a masterful poser who I included among my list of the best in my "Art of War" Series on physique presentation. The 5'9" 240-pounder last competed in the Masters Class at the 2008 Atlantic City Pro and placed in the lower end of the lineup, but he doesn't let that squash his creativity on the Muscle Stage. Though known for his classic posing style, Jeffers upped the ante at the Western Regional by making it a raucous family affair.
"I pulled my brother's band Traveler onto the stage on a rolling platform. While they pounded away, he walked around me as I posed, playing his version of a movie soundtrack on the electric violin," Jeffers tells me. "I always wanted to pose with a live band, or on top of a piano being wheeled out onto the stage, something totally ‘different!' But I wanted to do something with my brother and this was a cool way to do that. I almost exclusively pose to his music. Once in a while, I'll do something commercial." The crowd's response? "They loved it, I got a lot of very cool comments. Evidently, everyone is sick of guys waving around for you to applaud while they hit a few mandatories. I put on more of a show."
The "So What?": Jeffers has been tossing major iron with recently reinstated IFBB Pro Lee Priest at Freedom Fitness in Cave Creek, AZ. "Lee moved back to Australia, but he'll be back [in AZ} for a couple of weeks," Jeffers informs me. "We train very well together, because we like to really train hard unlike a lot of guys. I mean, extremely intensely and heavy." Apparently Priest is luring Jeffers to his stomping grounds, as Jeffers will next put his stage presence to the test at the Australian Pro. Jeffers is available for seminars, posing instruction and exhibitions. Andrew Oye's verdict: If the man has a posing clinic in you vicinity, and you're a rising bodybuilder, go take advantage of this cat's knowledge!
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LUKE WOOD LEAVES THE PRO-MUSCLE LIFE BEHIND (11/10)
The Item: Career Updates/Retirement
The Scoop: Just Announced: IFBB Pro Luke Wood has announced that he is retiring (or, at least, backing away) from the sport of competitive bodybuilding. He earned his pro card at the 2000 Australasia Championships. The humble, 32-year-old Aussie muscleman, who worked with pro trainer Milos Sarcev, recently suffered from thyroid issues and had a disappointing showing at the Atlantic City Pro.
In these excerpts of an emotional letter, Wood writes: "I type this with a lot of emotion so i will do my best to make it understandable. I've decided for now to hang up my posing trunks. I've been competing for 15 years straight, done every show here and except the Mr. Olympia, done every show over in the US. I'm very proud and beyond happy with what I've achieved and i feel i have taken my body to its potential limit for now…I decided this what is best for me!
I'm not saying never ever will I compete, but I just need time out now. Maybe I will be back??? NEVER SAY NEVER. The traveling, the training, the diet, yes the performance enhancers and most of the cost of this sport has taken it toll on me!...I feel worn out and basically the fire is just not there. I have lost the passion for competing and training at such an insane intensity, which I'm known for, for so many years. I love bodybuilding! Its in my blood and runs through my veins! So when you feel you are not in love with something that you were always in love with than its time to let it go before you start hating it! Than there will always be a chance that the love will fire up again!"
The "So What?": While he's still available for appearances, Wood will now focus on his personal training business to, as he says, "cash in some of my knowledge and experience." Wood also intends to write his own biography. Andrew Oye's verdict: If it comes to fruition, the forthcoming bio should be a doozy. There's always potential for a no-holds-barred exposé when pro athletes exit a sport and remove the restrictive muzzle of its inside secrets.
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