The 10 Most Memorable Mr. Olympia Rivalries

A Legacy of Competition

When Joe Weider created the Mr. Olympia in 1965, he envisioned that his show would become the biggest in bodybuilding, but he may not have even understood how massive his creation would become.

The Evolution of Bodybuilding’s Biggest Stage

The Olympia has become a force all its own in sports, and one reason why is the athletes themselves. The Olympia stage has been the platform for many of bodybuilding’s greatest rivalries, and their face-offs have only added to the show’s significance.

The 10 Most Memorable Mr. Olympia Rivalries

In chronological order, the following ten rivalries showcase why the 60th Olympia at Resorts World in Las Vegas, NV, on Oct. 11-12, will be a destination for thousands and have the attention of millions around the world.

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1. Larry Scott vs. Reg Park (1965-1966)

The inaugural Mr. Olympia competition saw Larry Scott and Reg Park face off, setting the stage for the rivalry that would shape the future of bodybuilding. Scott, a strongman and weightlifter, brought a unique physique to the competition, while Park, a British bodybuilder, was known for his impressive development and stage presence.

2. Sergio Oliva vs. Chuck Sipes (1967-1969)

Sergio Oliva, the first three-time Mr. Olympia, dominated the competition during this period, with Chuck Sipes pushing him to the limit in 1969. Oliva’s unique physique and conditioning left many wondering if anyone could topple him from the top spot.

3. Arnold Schwarzenegger vs. Sergio Oliva (1968-1970)

The introduction of Arnold Schwarzenegger to the competition brought a new level of intensity to the rivalry. Oliva, the reigning champion, struggled to maintain his title against the young Austrian’s relentless drive and muscular physique.

4. Arnold Schwarzenegger vs. Serge Nubret (1973-1974)

After a brief hiatus, Schwarzenegger returned to the stage, this time facing off against the French bodybuilder Serge Nubret. The rivalry between these two powerhouses cemented the Olympia’s status as the premier bodybuilding competition.

5. Franco Columbu vs. Serge Nubret (1976)

In 1976, Franco Columbu, a three-time Mr. Olympia, faced off against Serge Nubret in a closely contested competition. Columbu’s exceptional development and conditioning ultimately earned him the top spot.

6. Frank Zane vs. Chris Dickerson (1981-1982)

Frank Zane’s third consecutive Mr. Olympia title was challenged by Chris Dickerson in 1982. Dickerson’s impressive physique and conditioning left many wondering if Zane’s reign would be ended.

7. Lee Haney vs. Dorian Yates (1992-1997)

The 1990s saw the emergence of a new rivalry between Lee Haney and Dorian Yates. Yates’s dominance and Haney’s impressive development created a thrilling competition, with each pushing the other to new heights.

8. Ronnie Coleman vs. Kevin Levrone (1998-2000)

Ronnie Coleman’s incredible physique and dominance of the competition during this period sparked a rivalry with Kevin Levrone, a highly skilled bodybuilder with exceptional development.

9. Jay Cutler vs. Dexter Jackson (2001-2006)

Jay Cutler’s four-time Mr. Olympia titles were challenged by Dexter Jackson in the early 2000s. Cutler’s exceptional conditioning and Jackson’s impressive physique created a thrilling competition.

10. Phil Heath vs. Dexter Jackson (2010-2017)

Phil Heath’s eight-time Mr. Olympia titles were marked by a rivalry with Dexter Jackson, who pushed Heath to the limit during his reign. The competition between these two bodybuilding powerhouses cemented the Olympia’s status as the premier bodybuilding stage.

Conclusion

The 60th Olympia is a testament to the evolution of bodybuilding and the rivalries that have shaped the sport. From Larry Scott and Reg Park to Phil Heath and Dexter Jackson, each rivalry has contributed to the show’s significance and appeal. As the 60th Olympia approaches, fans around the world are eagerly anticipating the next chapter in this storied competition.

FAQs

Q: What is the Mr. Olympia competition?

The Mr. Olympia is an annual international bodybuilding competition held by the International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness (IFBB). The competition is considered the most prestigious title in professional bodybuilding, with the winner being crowned the best bodybuilder in the world.

Q: Who is Joe Weider?

Joe Weider was a Canadian bodybuilder and entrepreneur who founded the Mr. Olympia competition in 1965. He is credited with creating the modern bodybuilding movement and is often referred to as the “Father of Bodybuilding.”

Q: How many times has Phil Heath won the Mr. Olympia competition?

Phil Heath has won the Mr. Olympia competition eight times, a record that was broken by Ronnie Coleman and Lee Haney, who each won the title eight times as well.

Q: Who will compete in the 60th Olympia?

The 60th Olympia will feature the world’s top bodybuilders competing for the most prestigious title in professional bodybuilding. A list of competitors will be announced closer to the competition date.