Jay Cutler Reveals Why Featuring on the 2006 Flex Magazine Cover Was a “Special” Moment

Jay Cutler, the four-time Mr. Olympia, has a journey that reads like a classic rags-to-riches tale. Starting out helping out at his family’s concrete business, he soon found his true passion for pumping iron, and the rest, as they say, is history. With his dominance in the sport of bodybuilding, Cutler made a lasting impact, notably dethroning the eight-time Mr. Olympia, Ronnie Coleman. Cutler recently took a trip down memory lane, sharing a significant moment of his illustrious career.

Cutler transformed his physique and dominated the world of bodybuilding for many years. His remarkable journey reached a milestone in 2006 when he graced the cover of Flex Magazine as Mr. Olympia for the first time.

Jay Cutler recalls his first cover as an Olympia winner

In a recent Instagram post, Cutler reminisced about the significance of that moment, and described it as “special.” Cutler expressed his gratitude, stating, “#flashbackfriday ‘Throughout my career, it was always an honor anytime a magazine chose to put me on their cover, but this one will always be special for me. Flex Magazine, December 2006. My first cover as Mr. Olympia.”

He further revealed how he felt when the magazine hit the stands. “Holding this one in my hands, seeing it on shelves in stores, this just hit different,” he said. However, achieving the pinnacle of success wasn’t without its challenges for the Arnold Classic champ. After a disappointing 11th-place finish at the Night of Champions in 1998, he decided to double down on his training. Investing a whopping $100,000 in building a home gym, Cutler focused extensively on sculpting his upper body, having neglected his lower body training for nearly three years.

Reflecting on this period, he recalled, “So, after 1998 was that night of Champions, I finished 11th. I said I’m gonna go back to training. I built a home gym, I built a crazy home gym. I spent like 100 grand on equipment.” Cutler’s dedication and determination are evident in his journey from humble beginnings to becoming a legend of the sport. It is for the same reason that the 50-year-old was recently honored with a lifetime achievement award at the 2024 Arnold Classic in Ohio. During his acceptance speech, he expressed gratitude and respect for his on-stage rival, Coleman.

“I owe everything to you,” says Cutler

The former Mr. Olympia acknowledged Coleman’s pivotal role in his career, stating, “You’re the reason for my abilities. My greatness. I owe everything to you.” He added, “You are my idol. I ended up beating you, but I love you.” Recalling their competitive banter, Cutler reminisced about overcoming his idol on the Olympia stage, adding a sweet twist to their camaraderie.

He shared that during their gym sessions Coleman “kicked my a**” and emphasized Coleman’s status as the “greatest bodybuilder of all time.” Before winning Mr. Olympia, Cutler finished second to Coleman multiple times. However, in 2006, he defeated Coleman, marking a pivotal moment in his career, spearheading his journey towards holding the prestigious Sandow Trophy four times.

As he reflects on his illustrious career, Jay Cutler continues to inspire a new generation of bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts. What do you think about his moment of reminiscence? Let us know in the comments.