The Bodybuilding World Disparages Mr. Olympia as Arnold Schwarzenegger Leaves No Option for Them but to Improve: “Arnold Outclasses the Olympia”

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ByArpita Shrivastava

Mar 6, 2024 | 9:50 AM EST

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On the final day of the Arnold Classic, Arnold Schwarzenegger’s $500,000 announcement sparked comparisons with the Mr. Olympia, leading to a heated debate. Now, Nick Strength and Power, a major bodybuilding YouTube channel, has recently decided to chime on the matter, discussing the buzz surrounding the increased prize money at the Arnold Classic.

Nick emphasized in the video that the lighting quality of the two events was a major point. Many have earlier criticized the Olympia for distracting strobe lights, smoke machines, and flashy LED screens, unlike the simpler, well-lit presentation of the Arnold Classic. Nick’s video provided a side-by-side comparison of Hadi Choopan’s routines, highlighting the stark contrast in clarity and production.

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Furthermore, Nick argued that Olympia’s attempt to create a larger-than-life spectacle with extravagant lighting might be misguided. Hardcore bodybuilding fans, the primary audience paying for the live stream, seemed more interested in a clear view of their favorite bodybuilders without unnecessary distractions. He emphasized that Arnold Classic’s success with better lighting and a free live stream demonstrated a feasible and cost-effective solution.

Nick urged Olympia to reevaluate its approach, considering the increased prize money and superior presentation at the Arnold. He questioned what currently sets Olympia apart, other than historical significance, and invited viewers to share their opinions on the matter. Fans weighed in on Nick Strength and Power’s discussion about the Arnold Classic and the Olympia, offering intriguing perspectives.

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Arnold Classic vs Mr. Olympia

Bodybuilding enthusiasts were mostly excited about the Arnold Classic’s current changes, exclaiming, “The Arnold outshines the Olympia in every aspect, except prestige.” One fan recollected how they were charged too much money for a lackluster live stream and wrote, “Can’t believe the Olympia expected me to pay $75 last year for that gobshite stream quality.”

In anticipation of upcoming events, fans believed, the Arnold Classic was poised to outshine the Olympia. “I think Arnold classic will be better than Olympia,” remarked a fan. Notably, one fan even drew attention to the fact that baby Schwarzenegger’s Hollywood connections had something to do with the lighting at the classic. “The lighting I noticed IMMEDIATELY! I think Arnold has great connections being in the movie industry where lighting is EVERYTHING.” And It honestly makes sense, Arnold has experience in the film industry,” they wrote.

One comment playfully notes, “Lol, that comparison is such a classic example that more isn’t always better.”

“If Cbum, Nick, Derek plans to compete in the next year then it will change everything,” another comment noted, highlighting how potential competitors like the reigning Mr. Olympia classic physique Chris Bumstead, Nick, and current Open division Mr. Olympia Derek Lunsford gracing next year’s Arnold Classic, will reshape the landscape of the sport.

Do you believe that the increased prize money and superior lighting could help the Arnold Classic surpass the prestige of Mr. Olympia? Let us know in the comments below.