Bodybuilding, an arena of immense physical prowess and aesthetic perfection, has seen its fair share of controversies and debatable decisions.
While the sport celebrates the pinnacle of human physical achievement, it has also witnessed moments where the athletes’ hard work and dedication were seemingly overlooked or unfairly judged.
This article delves into the top 10 most controversial decisions in bodybuilding history, where many believe the rightful winners were robbed of their glory.
1. The 2001 Mr. Olympia: Ronnie Coleman vs Jay Cutler
In 2001, Ronnie Coleman, who had been holding the Mr. Olympia title for three consecutive years, faced a formidable challenger in Jay Cutler, a relatively new entrant to the Mr. Olympia stage.
Jay Cutler, who had previously placed eighth, came in with a significantly improved physique, challenging the reigning champion.
Critics pointed out that Ronnie Coleman appeared softer than usual, with a noticeable “bubble gut” and a bicep tear just weeks before the competition.
Despite these issues, Ronnie Coleman managed to clinch the title. Many believed Jay Cutler, with his tighter, more defined conditioning and balanced, symmetrical physique, deserved the win.
Adding to the controversy, Jay Cutler faced disqualification the following year and had $60,000 in prize money revoked due to a failed drug test, highlighting the contentious nature of the sport where natural status is often a grey area.
2. The 1972 Mr. Olympia: Arnold Schwarzenegger vs Sergio Oliva
The 1972 Mr. Olympia saw Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sergio Oliva, two titans of the sport, face off in a highly anticipated rematch.
Oliva, who had previously beaten Arnold Schwarzenegger, came in full and thick, with better muscle definition and overall conditioning.
Arnold Schwarzenegger, on the other hand, was criticized for his conditioning and used posing techniques to mask his weaknesses.
Despite Sergio Oliva’s superior physique, Arnold Schwarzenegger was awarded the title. Many, including Oliva, believed the decision was politically motivated to promote Schwarzenegger as the face of bodybuilding.
This contest remains one of the most debated decisions in the sport’s history.
3. The 2007 Mr. Olympia: Jay Cutler vs Victor Martinez
The 2007 Mr. Olympia saw Jay Cutler defend his title against Victor Martinez in what is considered one of the most controversial decisions in bodybuilding.
Jay Cutler, aiming for size, came in at 259 lbs but appeared flat compared to Victor Martinez’s well-conditioned and proportioned physique.
Victor Martinez, coming off a win at the 2007 Arnold Classic, was in peak form and many believed he deserved the title.
Jay Cutler’s large waist and weak front double bicep pose were glaring flaws, yet he won by a narrow margin of two points.
The decision sparked widespread debate, with many in the bodybuilding community, including former champions, believing Victor Martinez was the rightful winner.
4. The 1980 Mr. Olympia: Arnold Schwarzenegger vs Mike Mentzer and Frank Zane
Arnold Schwarzenegger’s surprise comeback at the 1980 Mr. Olympia is one of the most controversial moments in bodybuilding.
Arnold Schwarzenegger claimed to have trained for only eight weeks, and his performance was strategically flawed.
Critics noted that he avoided certain poses and displayed erratic behavior backstage, leading to accusations of drug use.
Despite these issues, Arnold Schwarzenegger won, prompting outrage from competitors like Mike Mentzer and Frank Zane, who believed the decision was unjust.
The controversy led to the shelving of the competition’s broadcast and cast a shadow over the event.
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5. The 1981 Mr. Olympia: Franco Columbu vs Tom Platz and Danny Padilla
The 1981 Mr. Olympia is often cited as the worst decision in the competition’s history.
Franco Columbu, a close friend of Arnold Schwarzenegger, won despite displaying gynecomastia and poor leg separation.
In contrast, competitors like Tom Platz and Danny Padilla showcased superior symmetry and conditioning. Danny Padilla, in particular, was in peak form with well-balanced muscle proportions.
An Italian judge’s perfect score for Franco Columbu and low placements for Tom Platz and Danny Padilla added to the controversy.
The decision led to widespread dissatisfaction and tarnished the competition’s credibility.
6. The 1997 Mr. Olympia: Dorian Yates vs Nasser El Sonbaty
Dorian Yates‘ victory over Nasser El Sonbaty in the 1997 Mr. Olympia is one of the clearest examples of a bodybuilding robbery.
Dorian Yates, suffering from serious arm injuries, presented a physique that was unbalanced and lacking in symmetry.
Nasser El Sonbaty, on the other hand, delivered an impressive package with superior muscle roundness, conditioning, and overall aesthetics.
Despite this, Dorian Yates won, prompting shock and disappointment from Nasser El Sonbaty and the bodybuilding community.
This decision is often seen as a testament to the flaws in the judging system.
7. The 2014 Mr. Olympia: Phil Heath vs Kai Greene
Phil Heath’s victory over Kai Greene in the 2014 Mr. Olympia is one of the most hotly debated decisions in recent bodybuilding history.
Kai Greene brought a unique combination of massive muscles and artistic flair, showcasing exceptional lower body development and overall conditioning.
Phil Heath, while undeniably impressive, displayed a noticeable “bubble gut” which detracted from his aesthetics. Despite Kai Greene’s superior presentation, Heath won, leading to widespread criticism.
The controversy highlighted the subjectivity in bodybuilding judging and the importance of aesthetic appeal.
8. The 1994 Mr. Olympia: Dorian Yates vs Shawn Ray
The 1994 Mr. Olympia saw Dorian Yates face criticism for his torn biceps, bloated waist, and lack of separation.
In contrast, Shawn Ray presented a complete and aesthetically pleasing physique.
Shawn Ray’s exceptional symmetry and proportion made him a standout, but Dorian Yates’ sheer mass and density won over the judges.
Many believe Shawn Ray deserved the title, and the decision remains a point of contention among bodybuilding fans and experts.
9. The 2019 Mr. Olympia: Brandon Curry vs Hadi Choopan
Brandon Curry’s victory over Hadi Choopan in the 2019 Mr. Olympia was another controversial decision.
Hadi Choopan, in his first Mr. Olympia appearance, displayed deep muscle definition, particularly in the abdominal area, and a well-balanced physique.
Brandon Curry, while impressive, lacked the same level of detail and conditioning, particularly in his lower body.
Many believed Hadi Choopan’s superior aesthetics and conditioning should have earned him the title, making this decision a hot topic in the bodybuilding community.
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10. The 2017 Mr. Olympia: Phil Heath vs Big Ramy
Phil Heath’s victory over Big Ramy in the 2017 Mr. Olympia was his last major win and is still debated today.
Phil Heath’s “bubble gut” and protruding belly button were significant flaws that many felt should have cost him the title.
Big Ramy, with his impressive size, symmetry, and proportions, presented a strong case for the win.
The fans’ reaction and the visible imperfections in Phil Heath’s physique led many to believe that Big Ramy was robbed of his rightful victory.
Conclusion
The world of bodybuilding is no stranger to controversy, and the sport’s history is dotted with decisions that have sparked debate and outrage.
From Arnold Schwarzenegger’s controversial comebacks to the modern-day battles between Phil Heath and his challengers, these moments highlight the subjectivity and occasional flaws in bodybuilding judging.
While these decisions may never be universally accepted, they remind us of the passion and dedication of the athletes who strive for perfection in a sport where every detail counts.