Many individuals know Arnold Schwarzenegger for his accomplishments in bodybuilding, acting, and his political career. With such a remarkable life, he has embraced a playful nature. And his witty nature was showcased in a funny promo video from the 1996 Arnold Classic. Schwarzenegger displayed his humor by pranking some of bodybuilding’s greatest champions.

Arnold Sports shared this hilarious throwback video on their Instagram page with the caption: “A classic throwback featuring the boss with @officialflexwheeler, @kevinlevrone, @shawnrayifbbpro, and @vincetaylor50.”

Arnold Schwarzenegger teases Arnold Classic champs during a photoshoot

The video featured champions of the Arnold Classic including, 1991 winner Shawn Ray, 1992 winner Vince Taylor, 1994 and 1996 winner Kevin Levrone, and Flex Wheeler, who won four titles in 1993, 1997, 1998, and 2000. Schwarzenegger, with his trademark grin, called these giants of bodybuilding for a “photo shoot.” First up was Shawn Ray.

The seven-time Mr. Olympia greeted him with enthusiasm, saying, “You were the best winner of the Arnold Classic!” Ray smiled and posed for the picture, thinking he had just received the ultimate compliment. Next, Vince Taylor stepped in. Schwarzenegger repeated his line and praised Taylor as the best Arnold Classic winner. Taylor, too, was flattered and posed for the camera.

Flex Wheeler was next. Arnie lauded him for his unique posing routine, calling him the best Arnold Classic winner. Wheeler, like the others, felt honored and posed proudly, unaware of the prank being played on him. Finally, Kevin Levrone entered.

Kevin Levrone won the 1996 Arnold Classic show

The Terminator star acknowledged Levrone’s comeback from injury, again calling him the best. Then came the twist. Levrone, skeptical about Schwarzenegger’s praise, said with confusion, “We can’t all be the best, right?” This caught Arnold off-guard who came up with a way to decide who was the best. “You got a point there now you know what we should do then let’s find out tonight let’s find that’s why I’ve brought the oil in here you all have won the Arnold Classic before this is the dream team of bodybuilding,” Arnie swiftly handled the situation. It was only later that they realized they had all fallen for Arnie’s clever prank.

Kevin Levrone won the 1996 event and took home a whopping $100,000 and a beautiful trophy. Followed by Flex Wheeler, who placed second, third place was Paul Dillett, Vince Taylor, and Shawn Ray stood on fourth and fifth place finishes. This lighthearted prank by the Austrian Oak entertained his fans. Schwarzenegger’s unique way of engaging with competitors has shown that there’s always room for a good laugh.

The 1996 Arnold Classic became memorable not just for the incredible display of muscle and might but also for the laughter and joy shared by everyone involved. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s knack for humor and showmanship once again stole the spotlight, making the event a delightful blend of competition and comedy.