Top 10 Robberies in Bodybuilding History
Bodybuilding judging is often subjective, leading to intense debates about fairness and outcomes. Throughout the history of bodybuilding, there have been several contests where fans and competitors believed the wrong athlete was awarded the top spot. Here are the top 10 most controversial “robberies” in bodybuilding history:
Jay Cutler vs. Victor Martinez (2007 Mr. Olympia)
Jay Cutler won his second consecutive Mr. Olympia title in 2007, but many believed that Victor Martinez should have taken the top spot due to his superior conditioning and balance.
Arnold Schwarzenegger vs. Sergio Oliva (1972 Mr. Olympia)
The 1972 Olympia is considered one of the closest in history, with many arguing that Sergio Oliva should have defeated Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Ronnie Coleman vs. Günter Schlierkamp (2002 GNC Show of Strength)
Many fans and experts believed Günter Schlierkamp outclassed Ronnie Coleman at the 2002 GNC Show of Strength, but the judges still gave Ronnie the win.
Phil Heath vs. Kai Greene (2014 Mr. Olympia)
The battle between Phil Heath and Kai Greene in 2014 was highly anticipated, with some believing Kai should have claimed the title due to his muscularity and posing routine.
Flex Wheeler vs. Dorian Yates (1993 Mr. Olympia)
Dorian Yates’ controversial win over Flex Wheeler sparked debates, with some feeling Flex had a more aesthetic physique.
Shawn Ray vs. Dorian Yates (1994 Mr. Olympia)
Many fans felt Shawn Ray had one of his best showings ever in 1994 and deserved to beat Dorian Yates.
Frank Zane vs. Mike Mentzer (1980 Mr. Olympia)
Arnold Schwarzenegger's win in the 1980 Olympia is one of the most debated in history, with many believing it was undeserved.
Phil Heath vs. Big Ramy (2017 Mr. Olympia)
In 2017, Big Ramy pushed Phil Heath hard, and some thought Ramy’s size and conditioning warranted a victory.
Shawn Rhoden vs. Phil Heath (2018 Mr. Olympia)
Some felt Phil Heath should have retained his title in 2018, despite Rhoden's victory, arguing that Heath's muscle density was superior.
Dexter Jackson vs. Jay Cutler (2008 Mr. Olympia)
Dexter Jackson defeated Jay Cutler in 2008, but some fans felt Cutler was unfairly judged and could have reclaimed his title.
Best V-Shape Exercises for 2024
The classic V-taper physique is the ideal in bodybuilding—a wide back, broad shoulders, and a narrow waist. Achieving this look requires targeted exercises that focus on widening the upper body and sculpting a lean, tight core. Here are the top V-shape exercises for 2024:
Pull-Ups (Wide Grip)
Pull-ups are essential for widening the lats and developing that broad back. Use a wide grip to maximize engagement in the upper back and lats.
Lat Pulldowns
Another key exercise for lat width, lat pulldowns allow you to focus on the stretch and contraction of your back muscles, helping to create that flared V-shape.
Dumbbell Shoulder Press
Strong, wide shoulders are crucial for creating the illusion of a small waist. The dumbbell shoulder press builds the anterior and lateral deltoids.
Side Lateral Raises
Side lateral raises isolate the lateral delts, helping to build width in your shoulders and improve your overall V-taper.
Bent-Over Rows
This compound movement builds thickness in the upper and mid-back, essential for creating a strong, wide back.
Hanging Leg Raises
Core exercises like hanging leg raises help sculpt the lower abs and ensure your midsection stays tight and lean, enhancing the V-shape.
Cable Woodchoppers
Cable woodchoppers target the obliques, helping to tighten your waist and give you better definition in your core area.
Best Posture Exercises
Good posture is essential for both aesthetics and overall health. Here are some of the best exercises for improving posture in 2024:
Deadlifts
Deadlifts strengthen the entire posterior chain, from the lower back to the upper traps, which helps improve your posture.
Face Pulls
Face pulls are great for targeting the rear deltoids and upper back muscles, which can correct rounded shoulders.
Plank Variations
Planks strengthen the core and help support the spine, improving posture by stabilizing the torso.
Cat-Cow Stretches
This yoga-based stretch helps mobilize the spine and reduce stiffness, which is key to maintaining a healthy posture.
Chin Tucks
This exercise helps strengthen the deep cervical flexors, preventing forward head posture.
2025 Arnold Classic Prize Money Preview
The Arnold Classic is one of the most prestigious bodybuilding competitions in the world. In recent years, the prize money has increased to attract top-tier talent. The 2025 Arnold Classic is expected to set new records for prize money. Based on trends, we anticipate the total prize pool for 2025 to exceed $1 million, with the winner of the Men’s Open division potentially taking home upwards of $300,000.
Past Prize Money Highlights:
2024 Arnold Classic Winner: $300,000
2023 Arnold Classic Winner: $250,000
With more sponsorships and higher competition stakes, the prize money will likely continue to grow.
2024 Arnold Classic UK Results
The 2024 Arnold Classic UK saw fierce competition across all divisions. The highlight was the Men's Open division, which claimed victory with impeccable conditioning, symmetry, and size. The top five competitors were:
The event showcased some of the best talent in the UK, setting the stage for an exciting 2025 season.
2024 Arnold Classic Brazil Lineup
The 2024 Arnold Classic Brazil will feature an impressive lineup of international bodybuilding stars. Some of the top contenders expected to compete include:
Known for his massive quads and impressive conditioning.
Aesthetic and symmetrical, with a strong chance of placing in the top 3.
A rising star with a combination of size and stage presence.
This year’s Arnold Classic Brazil promises to be one of the most competitive editions, drawing athletes from around the globe to showcase their best physiques.
