Top 3 biggest rivalries in bodybuilding history ft. Arnold Schwarzenegger vs. Mike Mentzer
The world of bodybuilding has witnessed multiple intense rivalries over the years, including the likes of Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jay Culter, and more. Many such names have had some fierce rivalries over the course of their illustrious careers.
The title of Mr. Olympia is so prestigious that numerous athletes dream of lifting the Sandow at least once in their lives. In their conquest, all the elite athletes from around the globe compete every year for their Olympia qualification. In almost six decades of its inception, only 18 athletes have ever lifted the Sandow trophy.
Witnessing countless rivalries over the years, some remain to be fan favourites even decades later. With that being said, let’s take a look at the top three rivalries of the sport.
1. Arnold Schwarzenegger vs. Mike Mentzer
Often considered the most controversial Mr. Olympia, the 1980s contest saw one the fiercest forms of competition ever. Bodybuilding legend Arnold Schwarzenegger had no plans of competing that year, as he mentioned to fellow athlete Frank Zane. However, he took the fans as well as the entire lineup by surprise as he suddenly appeared in his posing trunks.
Insisting on following the earlier followed weight class rules that favored him, Arnold Schwarzenegger pissed off a lot of the athletes. This infuriated bodybuilding giant Mike Mentzer.
Just hours before the contest took place, Arnold Schwarzenegger, who was also the promoter of the show, got into a confrontation with Mike Mentzer. As Schwarzenegger was later announced the winner, Mentzer believed the decision wasn’t just and decided to retire. Despite Mr. Olympia 1980 being considered rigged by most people, the fans got to see one of the best rivalries between Schwarzenegger and Mentzer.
2. Jay Cutler vs. Ronnie Coleman
One of the most interesting rivalries that ever unfolded on a bodybuilding stage was that of Ronnie Coleman and Jay Cutler. Winning eight consecutive titles, Ronnie ‘The King’ Coleman absolutely dominated the stage back in his time. Cutler came second to Ronnie Coleman six times before finally dethroning him in 2006.
Despite their heated rivalry on stage, the duo maintained a good bond off-stage and can often be seen training together.
3. Phil Heath vs. Kai Greene
The clash between Phil Heath and Kai Greene remains the best rivalry when it comes to modern bodybuilding. Losing to Heath multiple times, Kai Greene got into a verbal, as well as a physical altercation with ‘The Gift’ multiple times. Their era also saw the most interesting press conferences where the duo got into heated beef numerous times as well.
Despite all the bad blood, the duo managed to become friends and maintain good relations off-stage.
Which out of these, is your favourite rivalry? Let us know in the comments.