“Was Totally Devastated”: 29 Years Ago, a Career-Ending Injury Turned Dorian Yates Into an Unbeatable Force in Bodybuilding

For bodybuilders, injuries bring with them a serious level of uncertainty in terms of career progression. Many legendary bodybuilders have had to end careers due to their health setbacks and injuries. Dorian Yates, the 6x Mr. Olympia-winning legend, once came extremely close to a similar situation.

In an interview with Escape Fitness, the veteran bodybuilder sat down to talk about his experience and setbacks throughout his career. Winning the title for six years consecutively, Yates had proved that his legacy was unmatched. Yet, what was it like to come close to a career-ending situation during his prime? Let’s hear what he had to say.

Dorian Yates opens up about a devastating moment in his career

Injuries are never good news, especially for an athlete. Dorian Yates won the Mr. Olympia title from 1992 to 1997, but he faced one of his biggest challenges in between, in the form of an injury. Back then, the bodybuilder recalled how he had set high standards with his physique and monstrous form. But six weeks before the 1994 Mr. Olympia championship, a tragedy occurred.

Yates tore his bicep. While it was unclear if it happened during a workout or due to something else, the injury was severe. Since it happened at a time so close to the competition, thoughts about quitting wandered around in the legend’s mind. In fact, he seriously considered dropping out that year and pondered about it for a few days.

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But just like any other strong-willed bodybuilder, Yates decided not to quit. He admitted, “I was totally devastated that it happened.” In fact, he even thought that this was a “career-ending” injury. But he persisted and went for the 1994 championship anyway. And he ended up winning the title! But did his injuries ever resurface in the future?

How did Yates’ career end eventually?

After winning the title of Mr. Olympia for six consecutive years, things started to look bleak for the veteran bodybuilder. By then, he had suffered several injuries, owing to his workout and exertion.

Even when he continued to train for a while after his prime, the bodybuilder soon realized that it wasn’t possible for him to keep up. Eventually, due to injuries in his biceps and triceps, Yates quit training. But fitness didn’t have to be intense. The legend switched to yoga which helped keep his mental and physical well-being better.

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