“Could Be the Next Big Thing”: 3X Mr. Olympia, Frank Zane, Picked a 53-Year-Old Bodybuilding Icon as the Future of Sport

In 1980, when Arnold Schwarzenegger decided to make a comeback to secure his seventh title, he had a strong competitor in Frank Zane to defeat. Winning consecutively from 1977 to 1979, Frank was the undisputed champion during the said time. Recently as he sat for a podcast episode with Lisa Alastuey, the legend spoke about the bodybuilding intricacies. From talking about his decision to step away from Pumping Iron to picking a 53-year-old as the future of the sport, the veteran spoke his heart out!

Known for his soft demeanor and dominant stage presence, Frank was one of the many who paved the course of bodybuilding in a new direction. Thus, his words have weight to them.

Yesteryear bodybuilding legend Frank Zane shared his perspective

As Legendary Aesthetics and 3x Mr. Olympia (1977-1979) Frank Zane sat for a recent podcast episode, the 80-year-old talked about the future of the sport. Though he stays away from “online stuff,” the veteran bodybuilder keeps himself updated with the happening in the sport. Even though it’s been a decade since he retired, his passion for the sport is hard to miss out on.

Talking about the sport’s future, the three times Mr. Olympia champion remarked on the recent popularity of Michael O’ Hearn has grabbed his attention. Talking about it, he said, “He [Michael] has been here training with me.” Adding more, Frank said, “He has publicized some stuff, and he probably could be the next big thing in bodybuilding if he chooses to do so.”

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Thus, Frank remains optimistic about the sport’s future. It’s been over decades since Frank retired from professional bodybuilding. However, to date, he remains one of the strongest advocates of the sport. Alongside Arnold, Frank was amongst the many others who helped popularize bodybuilding as a mainstream sport. Standing tall at 5’9″, The Chemist’s body aesthetics still remain a benchmark for aspiring bodybuilders.

Who is Michael O’Hearn that Frank is referring to?

Born in 1969, Michael is an American bodybuilder who works as a personal trainer, actor, and model. Having been featured on over 400 magazine covers, he won the title of Fitness Model of the Year seven times. He is also a four-time winner of the prestigious Mr. Natural Universe title. A man of versatility, Michael also appeared as the gladiator in the 2008 revival of American Gladiators.

A fitness enthusiast, he promotes bodybuilding and is the founder of Power Bodybuilding. It is a specialized training program focusing on developing hypertrophy and strength alongside body aesthetics. With 45+ years of fitness experience, he is also a Cal Powerlifting Champ. With 2 million Instagram followers, as Frank points outs, Michael enjoys popularity and is a known face in the community.

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