“Lou Had This Kind of a Physique”: Hailed As Modern Arnold, Wesley Vissers Reminds Arnold Schwarzenegger of On-Stage Rival Lou Ferrigno

The Classic Physique Showdown at the Arnold Classic 2024 concluded with a captivating twist as Wesley Vissers emerged as the new winner. Vissers not only defeated the reigning champion, Ramon Dino, but also outshone the formidable Urs Kalecinski. Arnold Schwarzenegger, during the award ceremony, lauded the new champion, drawing a parallel between Vissers and his onstage rival, Lou Ferrigno. The event marked a fascinating shift in the classic physique landscape.

Schwarzenegger said while presenting him with the trophy, “Lou had this kind of a physique, he had wide shoulders, narrow waist. Posing was kind of the same. quick quick poses. Then your lat spread, the double bicep posing. Has anyone ever said to you that you remind them of Lou?” In response to Arnie’s compliment, Vissers replied, “You’re one of the first ones, but I can see the comparison because I’m tall as well. Just like Lou was back in the day and of course I watched Pumping Iron a lot of times…So, thank you for the compliment. Thank you very much.”

Moving on the Austrian Oak continued to praise Vissers and said, “You look fantastic.” Then, with a turn of his head, he ignited motivation among others, offering inspiring words that encapsulated the essence of the game: “That’s what happens in bodybuilding. But still, we win a few we lose a few. This is just the way it is. And anyway, congratulations again. All of you for the great work that you’re doing.”Schwarzenegger reminisced with precision about his on-stage rival and friend, Lou Ferrigno. He mentioned that Vissers evoked memories of Ferrigno’s 1972 physique when he clinched victory in the Mr. Universe and Mr. America competitions. Ferrigno and Schwarzenegger go a long way, from a rivalry on screen to friendship off the stage. The Terminator even once played mind games and influenced Ferrigno enough to make him lose a competition.

Arnold Schwarzenegger’s strategy to defeat his ultimate competition

In the epic showdown of 1975, Arnold Schwarzenegger faced off against his friend Lou Ferrigno in a battle for the Mr. Olympia title. Schwarzenegger, eyeing his sixth consecutive victory, not only relied on his physical prowess but also unleashed a strategic psychological game against the formidable Hulk.

Standing tall at 6’5, Ferrigno was no easy opponent. His childhood challenges, including a life-threatening infection causing hearing loss, had toughened him long before he embraced the world of weightlifting. Schwarzenegger knew he had a formidable task ahead. In a viral clip from the “Pumping Iron” documentary, Schwarzenegger spilled the beans on his secret weapon. It wasn’t just his chiseled physique; it was his tactical mindset.

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The bodybuilding legend admitted to manipulating Ferrigno’s mindset, sowing seeds of doubt and subtly suggesting retirement might be a wise choice. Schwarzenegger skillfully probed Ferrigno about his chances if he retired that year, strategically planting the idea of stepping back from Mr. Olympia. The Terminator’s words prompted Ferrigno to admit,

“I’m going to lose. Arnold, you’re the best.” This exchange showcased Schwarzenegger’s mastery of using words as a potent weapon in his triumphant journey.

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