The 2023 Mr. Olympia is underway. The greatest bodybuilders in the world have begun competing in their respective events. However, the action has wrapped up for some divisions. One such division is the popular 212 category. The 212 was one of the divisions that kicked off two days of excitement. Shaun Clarida looked to defend his title, but things didn’t go as planned.

After pre-judging, two favorites emerged among the 212 bodybuilders., Shaun Clarida and Keone Pearson. However, the Giant Killer couldn’t defend his title as a new champion emerged. After what many would consider an upset win, seven-time Mr. Olympia Phil Heath compared Keone Pearson to the legendary Robby Robinson during his victory pose.

Phil Heath saw the bodybuilding legend in the young 212 Mr. Olympia

After winning the 212 Mr. Olympia twice and a stellar performance against giants like Big Ramy at the Arnold Classic, the bodybuilding world expected Shaun Clarida to win. However, despite placing sixth last year, 28-year-old Keone Pearson made massive improvements to his physique. Besides working on his muscularity, Pearson also showcased immaculate proportions and posing.

Pearson was impressed with his flowing posing routine, inspired by the Golden Era legends like Robinson. However, he also showcased immaculate propositions with a slim waist and excellent v-taper. Hence, during the victory pose, seven-time Mr. Olympia could help but compare Pearson to Robinson. 

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“He looks like Robby Robinson… the new Black Prince,” Phil Heath said while commentating, as he bestowed the moniker that belongs to the Masters Olympia-winning bodybuilder on the 2023 212 Mr. Olympia. It seems Heath sees Keone Pearson bringing a 70s golden era look to the 212 division. However, Pearson won the title after a hard-fought battle.

Shaun Clarida vs. Keone Pearson

Shaun ‘The Giant Killer’ Clarida didn’t relinquish his title without a fight. In fact, the former two-time 212 Mr. Olympia put on more muscle mass this year. Despite putting on muscle mass, Clarida maintained granite-like conditioning. After the pre-judging, many fans thought Clarida would have the edge over Pearson with his conditioning.

During the finals, Clarida didn’t pull any punches. He walked out with dramatic music and showcased his strengths on stage during his individual posing routine. He also challenged Pearson directly during the final pose down. However, there was no animosity. Instead, it was a healthy competition between the two favorites.

What did you think about the final placings of the 212 division? Do you agree with Phil Heath? Tell us in the comments.

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