“He Said I Was Smoking Crack”: Despite Dethroning Ronnie Coleman, Rival Jay Cutler Holds Nothing but Sheer Respect for the Bodybuilding Legend, Interview 2022

Bodybuilding is one of the most sought-after sports in the world. Every year, competition is on the rise, which ultimately ends up breeding a lot of rivalries among bodybuilders. However, not all rivalries are epic enough to be remembered as synonymous with the sport. Defying the aforementioned statement was the rivalry between Ronnie Coleman, 8 x Mr. Olympia, and Jay Cutler, 4 x Mr. Olympia.

That said, one would imagine that the bodybuilding legends would be at loggerheads whenever they ever met. Contrary to the relationship they had during their competition phase, they have maintained a cheerful and friendly rapport as legends in the sport as witnessed behind the scenes at Arnold Classic.

Ronnie Coleman and Jay Cutler catch up at the Arnold Classic 2022:

Since Coleman and Cutler shared a great rivalry, one would expect them to snub and walk away even if they end up running at each other. However, that was not the case when both bodybuilding greats bumped into each other earlier this year. Instead, the two seemed excited and elated. That’s not all. They even had a quick conversation, pulling each other’s leg with a chuckle or two.

As the camera was rolling for a YouTube video, Cutler approached Coleman, who was sitting on a chair. Cutler said, “He [Ronnie] never feared me coming up and beating him.” Also, he added an interesting byte about the unknown side of the relationship they shared. “He said I was smoking crack,” and they laughed. While it is intriguing to know more, the podcast host, accompanied by Cutler, invited the two to come on his show, stating, “You and Jay will have stories.”

READ MORE: “Nothing but Straited Muscle Back”: Frank Zane Wasn’t Threatened by Ronnie Coleman’s Physique Back in the Days of Competing Together

It might be shocking to learn this, but yes, their rapport is completely unlike their unapologetic rivalry on stage back then. Regarding the relationship they shared those days, which was widely portrayed with a lot of hatred, Cutler said that they respected each other but “we weren’t really necessary friends, we didn’t call each other on the phone.”

A strong rival is as good as an understanding friend!

Cutler described the era of his competitive phase as “the highlight of the years of bodybuilding in the Olympia.” The 4-time Mr. Olympia champ started in 1999 when Coleman had already won his second title. While Cutler admired The King for his devotion and unwavering focus on the sport, he also had his eye set on the title. Walking away empty-handed while Cutler was only one step away from clinching the title not once but six times from 2005 to 2005 is as traumatic as it sounds.

But having a challenging opponent who was in a winning rage at the same time made all his efforts worthwhile. To this date, Cutler takes pride in dethroning Ronnie in 2006 more than winning the title. Eventually, Cutler’s interest in the sport faded after Coleman retired.

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What do you think about their friendship after their uncompromising battle for the title? Share your thoughts in the comments.