Ever wondered why Mr. Olympian winners and top contenders who also participate in Arnold Classics don’t always share the same ranks and positions as one might expect them to? Victor Martinez talks about the crucial point of having a varied judging aspect that is being followed in these two monumental contests in the field of bodybuilding.

Victor Martinez, the winner of the 2007 Arnold Classic and the runner-up of Mr. Olympia in the same year, explained the difference in opinion and judging that takes place in two of the most prestigious bodybuilding stages. As he has been a part of both, he has all the experience to rightfully explain the matter to the community.

Victor Martinez talks about the international judges at Arnold’s Classic

In one of the latest videos by Generation Iron Fitness and Bodybuilding Network, the former IFBB Pro bodybuilder was asked whether both shows, Arnold Classics and Mr. Olympia, have a similar judging method. In response, Martinez pointed out how each of the contests has different criteria of its own. And it varies sometimes because one has gotten more international judges than the others.

He stated, “There are different criteria for Arnold versus Olympia. Yeah, you got a couple of international judges there for the Arnold that you don’t get at the Olympia, yeah, you know.”

Furthermore, he made another bold statement by saying how the shows can be completely different because of their choices. He mentioned, “It’s a totally different show.” Martinez, who is well-versed in the fitness world, especially the systems of competitive bodybuilding, revealed a truth that many people were unaware of.

Martinez made a powerful statement. It can also be read as true in retrospect when one sees how Arnold Schwarzenegger’s announcement regarding the commencement of Arnold Classic 2024‘s live stream brought about a clear distinction with Mr. Olympia’s charges for the same.

Arnold Schwarzenegger’s shocking announcement

Right after the 2023 Mr. Olympia, when the bodybuilding community was furious at the high charges of $74.99 Mr. Olympia set for the streaming of their show, Schwarzenegger dropped shocking news. He wrote in a post, “My goal has always been to grow the sport of bodybuilding, and I want everyone to be able to watch and be inspired by the Arnold Classic, no matter how much money they have.”

Then the bodybuilding icon explained how the live stream for 2024 Arnold’s Classic would be free. He mentioned, “So this year the livestream will be free.” Because there are some distinctions between both shows, bodybuilders who master different sets of aesthetics get their own due credit.

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In a world full of variations and differences in perception, there should exist different levels and lenses of critiquing as well, thus maintaining the balance of the bodybuilding world. Both events are gaining their share of importance.

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