The bodybuilding circuit has witnessed people from different backgrounds come and make a name for themselves. One could even argue that it is an inclusive space for those who wish to do something different. It is especially true during the 1950s to 1980s when bodybuilding was a relatively new arena, often looked at differently. More than sports, it was understood as a different subculture with many unwritten rules. Mike O’Hearn recently brought together two legendary bodybuilders to share their experiences.
Robby Robinson and Frank Zane were two iconic bodybuilders who redefined the concept of an aesthetic physique. Recently, in an interview, fitness influencer Mike O’Hearn revealed that he got together with the aesthetic kings of the older generation. They talked about their trials and growing up in America.
Mike O’Hearn appreciates America for its inclusiveness
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Appearing on Generation Iron Fitness Network and Barbend’s podcast, Mike O’ Hearn had an interesting conversation with Adam Jablin, an addiction recovery expert. They talked about the present generation’s fitness mentality and finding balance amidst the noise. Jablin argues that he would rather have his kids “integrated” than balanced.
On the same nerve, the Gladiator agreed with the host and confessed that America allowed him to be who he was. He was glad to be born to his educated parents as they allowed the titan to venture into an unknown profession. They lamented that the same luxury is not available elsewhere.
The 54-year-old bodybuilder further revealed that a few days ago, he got legends about Robby Robinson and 3x Mr Olympia, Frank Zane, together for a chat. “I got those two together after I think 25 30 years they haven’t seen each other,” said O’Hearn. The bodybuilders highlighted that despite coming from tough backgrounds, they could perfect their skills, chisel their bodies, and achieve greatness.
The fitness model added,“…. how Robbie grew up in Louisiana and then Florida and the swamps as he says ….the hardship they appreciated it wasn’t a hardship, it was I’m Gonna Make It Happen, even though I’m growing up this way…” The grateful social media influencer accepted that it was the same for him. His challenges helped him with his identity. For the unversed, it was a path-breaking moment to get the two contemporaries to meet after so many years. They were competing against each other in the 1970s.
Robinson failed to dethrone the God of Aesthetics
The ‘God of Aesthetics and the Black Prince battled it out during the 1970s. In 1977, everyone predicted Robinson’s win in Mr. Olympia, but Zane stumped everyone with his superior conditioning. For the next two years, history was to repeat itself. Although Robinson trained hard, he could not snatch the title from Zane.
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Talking about the incident, the 81 years old mentioned, “The guy I thought was really good was Robbie Robinson, who had a great physique. So I had some competition with Robbie…I managed to pull through those three years.” Although Robinson could not win Mr. Olympia, he won Masters Olympia in 1994. The 77-year-old continues to be extremely active. Many believe he is a genetic wonder who refuses to age. Who was your favorite bodybuilder in the 1980s? Let us know in the comments.
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