“Lost Mr. Universe to a Chicken” Bodybuilding Legend Recalled Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Frustrated Statement After Losing to Him in 1968

Frank Zane proved that only size is not important to win bodybuilding competitions. In 1968, Zane won the Mr. Universe title ahead of heavyweight Arnold Schwarzenegger. One of the few Olympia winners below 91 kg, Zane is a legend of the sport. In a video, Zane openly spoke about how he overcame Arnold Schwarzenegger in 1968. 

In an interview with ‘Muscle and strength’, Frank Zane spoke more in detail about the real story behind the 1968 Mr. Universe competition. He also revealed Arnold Schwarzenegger’s epic reaction and his present relations with Arnold Schwarzenegger. 

Frank Zane revelations about Arnold Schwarzenegger  

Frank spoke about how he didn’t wanted to enter the Mr. Universe competition in this interview. However, he was convinced to enter, and he finally went to Miami for the contest. There, Frank finally saw one of his chief competitors and bodybuilding champion, Arnold Schwarzenegger. 

“He was big, white, and smooth and was eating cake,” Frank said about Schwarzenegger. Further, he revealed that Arnold was not in good shape and not ready for the show. “He was just big, no quality,” Frank spoke about Schwarzenegger. In comparison, Frank said that he was in good shape, was cut, and had tan which was why he won the 1968 Mr. Universe competition. 

He then disclosed Arnold’s frustration at losing and his epic comment to Muscle and Fitness magazine. “I lost Mr. Universe to a chicken with 17-inch arms”, Arnold said. This reflects the hard lesson Arnold learned, muscle and being large isn’t enough for winning.

Read More: “It’s a Freak Show”: 3x Mr. Olympia Shared His Resentment Over Modern Size Monsters Defaming Bodybuilding in 2019

Frank also revealed how winning the competition did not negatively affect his relationship with Arnold Schwarzenegger. He also openly spoke about how he did training with Arnold Schwarzenegger in 1969 and 1970. 

What is the bodybuilding Champion doing now? 

Today, 80-years old Frank Zane has his learning center ‘Zane experience.” He is a fitness trainer and coach who enjoys doing biceps exercises and lifting dumbells. He also has his own YouTube channel where he posts videos on health and fitness. 

Watch this story: From Young Age to Becoming a Beast, Bodybuilding Legend Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Insane Transformation 

Frank Zane’s winning the 1968 Mr. Universe title was one of the few rare victories against Arnold Schwarzenegger. While both Frank and Arnold will remain timeless legends, we look forward to seeing their future journey.