Bodybuilding: top 12 greatest champions of all time

During my career as a professional bodybuilderI had the immense privilege of meeting some of the sport's legends. Icons who forged extraordinary physiques, and above all left their mark on the history of bodybuilding. Each of these exceptional athletes has his or her own unique and inspiring story to tell.

In this article, I invite you to take a fascinating plunge into this universe, and meet some of the 12 greatest minds in the world. champions of the discipline. And at the end of this article, I'll reveal who I think is the best bodybuilder in history.

Chris Dickerson

The first of these 12 great bodybuilding champions is called Chris Dickerson. Admittedly, he's not the best-known on this list. But he's a true pioneer of the discipline.

Chris Dickerson was born on August 25, 1939 in Montgomery, Alabama. One of the reasons he has made such an impact on history is that he became the very first African-American to win the title of Mr. Olympia in 1982. All at the impressive age of 43, which has long made him the contest's oldest winner. A feat matched only by Shawn Rhoden in the 2018 edition.

Before shining in the bodybuildingChris Dickerson has long aspired to a career as an artist. He studied music and voice at New York University. 

His rise in the bodybuilding world in the 1960s was dazzling. He won his first major title, the AAU Mr. America, in 1970, followed by the NABBA Mr. Universe in 1973 and the Pro Mr. Universe in 1974.

Chris distinguished himself from the other competitors by his perfect harmony of height and muscular definition. On stage, his artistic presence was absolutely unique.

Dickerson retired from competition in 1994, but never stopped contributing to the bodybuilding community. Based in Florida, he has been a coach, judge and mentor, sharing his wealth of experience with new generations of athletes on a daily basis. 

He was also inducted into the IFBB Hall of Fame in 2000, proof of the impact he has made on his sport.

Chris Dickerson passed away on December 23, 2023, at the age of 82. He has left a great void in the bodybuilding world, but his legacy will live on for many years to come.

Sergio Oliva

Nicknamed "The Myth", Sergio Oliva is another great bodybuilding legend. Born in Cuba on July 4, 1941, Sergio fled his native country for the United States, where he would go on to write a memorable page in the sport's history.

Sergio Oliva was a phenomenon right from the start of his career. With a physics unrivalled for its time, he won the title of Mr. Olympia 3 times, between 1967 and 1969.

Sergio stood out for his massive musculatureHer incredible definition and surprisingly narrow waistline. This combination gave her an almost surreal body, which earned her her nickname.

Even today, some believe that he was endowed withgenetics simply perfect. His physique was so advanced for his time that he was often considered light years ahead of his competitors.

His confrontation with Arnold Schwarzenegger at the 1969 Mr. Olympia was undoubtedly one of the most memorable moments of his career. Sergio Oliva was named winner that year, only to be dethroned the following year by the "Austrian Oak".

Beyond his stage performances, Sergio Oliva worked hard for his family and continued to inspire athletes around the world. His passing on November 12, 2012 was a sad moment for the bodybuilding community.

"The Myth" will forever remain one of the greatest bodybuilders of all time, a symbol of powerinnovation and perseverance.

Frank Zane,

Let's continue our journey into the history of bodybuilding with Frank Zane,a bodybuilder who revolutionized the sport with his approach based on the symmetry. Born on June 28, 1942, Frank Zane has one of the most aesthetically accomplished physiques.

Like Sergio Oliva, Frank won the prestigious Mr. Olympia title 3 times between 1977 and 1979. Rather than simply aiming to gain muscle mass, Zane has always chosen to emphasize a physique well-proportioned. He has become a model for the Classic Physique category, appreciated for his elegance and balance.

Frank Zane was known for his intelligent approach to thestrength training and nutrition. Always striving for perfection, he never hesitated to use scientific techniques to optimize hypertrophy. He had a deep understanding of how the body works and used this knowledge to sculpt his physique with incredible precision.

After his competitive career, he dedicated himself to helping others achieve their fitness goals. He has written several bodybuilding booksThe company's expertise in the fields of nutrition and fitness has been passed on to thousands of fitness enthusiasts.

Even today, Frank remains an iconic figure and role model in the bodybuilding world.

Discover this article to learn more about Frank Zane's career.

Franco Columbu

Let's move on to Franco Columbuwhose nickname "The Sardinian Strongman" speaks volumes about his physical power. Born on August 7, 1941 in Sardinia (Italy), Franco began his career as a boxer and weightlifter before turning to bodybuilding.

Franco was a formidable competitor, as well as an incredibly versatile athlete. He won the Mr. Olympia title twice, in 1976 and 1981. He also took part in numerous Strongman.

Indeed, Columbu was endowed with a superhuman strengthThis was combined with a compact, extremely muscular physique (165 centimetres for 90 kilos). Despite his relatively short stature, he displayed a power that defied his taller competitors, and lifted much heavier loads than other bodybuilders: 238 kilos at the bench press297 kilos at squat and 340 kilos at deadlift.

His career was marked by an extraordinary ability to overcome obstacles. A striking example of his resilience was his triumphant return to the Mr. Olympia in 1981 after a serious accident during the World's Strongest Man competition in 1977. He had seriously knee injury after carrying a refrigerator on his back.

In addition to bodybuilding, Franco was a pioneer in the field of chiropractic and the sports nutritionsharing his knowledge and expertise with numerous athletes and clients. His passion for health and well-being has had a profound impact on those who have followed him.

After his death on August 30, 2019, Franco Columbu left behind a legacy of strength, courage and excellence. His memory continues to inspire athletes around the world.

Discover this article to learn more about Franco Columbu's career.

Phil Heath

Let's move on to the more recent history of bodybuilding with Phil Heath.

Nicknamed "The Gift", Phil Heath was born on December 18, 1979. After a university career in basketball, he quickly rose through the ranks to become one of the world's leading bodybuilders of his generation.

Phil has won the Mr. Olympia 7 times in a row, equaling record held by Arnold Schwarzenegger. His first victory in 2011 marked the start of an incredible hegemony.

He owes this domination to his commitment to excellence and perfection. Every year, he has taken the stage with significant improvements, proof of his determination.

Heath is known in particular for his exceptionally detailed musculature, especially his back and shoulders. abs. The latter are often considered among the best in the history of bodybuilding.

I had the privilege of meeting Phil Heath personally. His passion for the sport and his drive to excel are truly inspiring. 

Away from the stage, Phil Heath has been involved in entrepreneurial projects and has always been an active ambassador for bodybuilding, not hesitating to share his knowledge with the public. fitness community.

Discover this article to learn more about Phil Heath's career.

Jay Cutler

Jay Cutleris a name that resonates strongly in the world of bodybuilding. Born on August 3, 1973, Jay Cutler is not only a four-time winner of the Mr. Olympia, but also an emblematic figure in the discipline.

Jay dominated the world of bodybuilding in the early 2000s, winning the Mr. Olympia in 2006, 2007, 2009 and 2010. His rivalry with Ronnie Coleman is one of the fiercest in history.

My encounter with Jay Cutler goes back to my early days in the United States. At the time, I was a salesman for the BPI brand, associated with Cutler Nutrition. I had the opportunity to meet him when he was promoting his brand in a GNC store, a brand dedicated to sports nutrition. 

His presence, his charisma and his approachability left an excellent impression on me. Later, I met him again at competitions, as I was striving to get my IFBB pro card. These interactions gave me an insight into the man behind the champion, revealing his passion for the sport and his commitment to his fans and his products.

His impact on bodybuilding goes far beyond his titles. He has undeniably helped shape the industry and inspire a new generation of bodybuilders.

Jay Cutler remains an influential figure in the industry, an example of perseveranceand entrepreneurial success. His career path, from competitor to businessman and mentor, illustrates the diversity of paths that a top-level athlete can take.

Discover this article to learn more about Jay Cutler's career.

Dorian Yates

Let's move on to another great bodybuilding champion, Dorian Yates. The man nicknamed "The Shadow" was born on April 19, 1962 in Birmingham, England. He revolutionized bodybuilding in the 90s with his innovative approach and unprecedented physique.

Yates won 6 consecutive Mr. Olympia titles from 1992 to 1997. His domination in sport was so complete that he was often perceived as invincible on stage.

Dorian Yates has developed a training philosophy known as " Blood and Guts ". This method, based on intensity and rigor, changed the way bodybuilders trained. He proved that less could be more, by focusing on short but extremely intense workouts. An approach that enabled him to develop a muscle mass exceptional, including a back considered by some observers to be one of the most massive in history.

Dorian is also known for his discretion and his solitary approach to bodybuilding. He prepared most of his competitions in his own gym in Birmingham, far from the spotlight of Los Angeles or Las Vegas. This earned him the nickname "The Shadow".

After retiring from professional bodybuilding, Dorian Yates devoted himself to other passions, including yoga and meditation. He has also shared his knowledge and experience through books, seminars and coaching programs.

Discover this article to learn more about Dorian Yates' career.

Ronnie Coleman

Ronnie Coleman is another legend in the history of bodybuilding.

He was born on May 13, 1964 in Louisiana and won the Mr. Olympia title 8 times, equaling Lee Haney's record. His size and strength were phenomenal.

In addition to his track record, Ronnie Coleman is known for his trainings and his battle cry " Yeah Buddy! "He has become a cult figure in the fitness world. Capable of lifting incredibly heavy weights, his extraordinary muscle mass has made him one of the world's greatest bodybuilders of all times.

However, Ronnie Coleman's career was also marked by considerable challenges, in particular with regard to his health. His extreme training and the pressure to stay on top had a significant impact on his body. Over the years, Ronnie has had to undergo several surgical operations, notably on his back and hip, due to injuries and wear. 

I had the opportunity to meet Ronnie Coleman on several occasions, and each time it pained me to see him in a wheelchair. It was hard to see a man, once so powerful, struggling to get around. 

Despite these health challenges, Ronnie's spirit remains indomitable. He continues to show a resilience and incredible positivity in the face of adversity. Witness the recent workout he shared with Arnold.

In short, Ronnie Coleman's story is a mixture of extraordinary triumphs and personal struggles. His perseverance in the face of life's trials is an inspiration to many.

Discover this article to learn more about Ronnie Coleman's career.

Lee Haney

Let's continue our discovery of the great bodybuilding champions with Lee Haney.

Born on November 11, 1959, Lee Haney set an unrivalled standard in the sport, winning 8 consecutive Mr. Olympia titles from 1984 to 1991. A record he shares with Ronnie Coleman.

With his imposing figure, Lee Haney reigned over bodybuilding in the '80s. He was known for his balanced approach to training and nutrition, promoting health and longevity as much as athletic performance.

Lee Haney was also a pioneer in the promotion of own massa philosophy that aims to build muscle while maintaining a low percentage of body fat. 

Outside of competition, Lee Haney has been involved in various initiatives to promote health and fitness. He has been a strong advocate of fitness training and wellness, using his platform to inspire and educate others. His holistic vision of health and fitness, as well as his commitment to personal development, have made him a role model for many athletes.

Lee Haney remains a respected and admired figure in the discipline. His legacy is not limited to his Mr. Olympia titles, but extends to his influence on the fitness culturepromoting a healthier, more sustainable approach to sport.

Discover this article to learn more about Lee Haney's career.

Flex Wheeler

Let's talk about Flex Whelerrightly regarded as one of the greatest bodybuilders never to have won the Mr. Olympia title

Flex Wheeler made his professional bodybuilding debut in the early 1990s and was soon noticed for his extraordinary talent. He won the prestigious Arnold Classic 4 times.

Although he never landed the Mr. Olympia, he did come in second several times, establishing his reputation as one of the greatest. athletes of the sport.

His nickname, "Flex", reflects his ability to present a physique that is both massive and unbelievable. flexible. His muscularity, coupled with an artistic presentation on stage, elevated the art of the installation to a whole new level. 

Flex Wheeler's career has been marked by challenges, including health problems that have sometimes hampered his performances. However, his strength of character and his ability to overcome these obstacles are also what make him so respected and admired.

Flex Wheeler is a true artist in the world of bodybuilding, an athlete who has pushed back the boundaries of what is aesthetically possible. 

Discover this article to learn more about Flex Wheeler's career.

Chris Bumstead

Chris Bumstead is the only athlete in this ranking who is still active. He has already left his mark on the history of his sport, redefining the standards of aesthetic excellence in bodybuilding.

Figurehead of the category Classic PhysicsCBum" was born on February 2, 1995 in Canada. He made a meteoric rise, quickly becoming a household name.

Chris Bumstead achieved the feat of winning the Mr. Olympia Classic Physique title 5 times in a row. A performance that testifies to his domination of this category, which focuses on aesthetics, symmetry and proportion.

The physics of Bumstead reminiscent of the legends of the past. His stage presence, characterized by a slim waistline and impeccable presentation, captivated fans and judges alike from his very first appearances.

Outside of competition, Chris is actively engaged with his community. He is a veritable phenomenon on social networks, where his accounts Instagram and YouTube has millions of subscribers. He shares his tips, workout routines and approach to nutrition on a daily basis, inspiring a new generation to pursue their fitness goals with passion and determination.

Discover this article to learn more about Chris Bumstead's career.

Arnold Schwarzenegger

To conclude this ranking of bodybuilding legends, let's move on to what I think is the best: Arnold Schwarzeneggerthe greatest bodybuilder of all time.

Born in Austria on July 30, 1947, Arnold not only dominated the bodybuilding world in the 1970s, but also, and above all, transformed the sport into one of the world's leading bodybuilders. global cultural phenomenon.

Schwarzenegger has won 7 Mr. Olympia titles, a record that has stood for decades. He owes these victories to his imposing physique, unrivalled charisma and extraordinary stage presence.

Her popularity transcended the discipline, leading her to a successful career in the cinema in Hollywood and, later, in policy. What makes Arnold unique is not only his achievements on stage, but also his ability to inspire and motivate those around him. 

He paved the way for generations of bodybuilders and contributed greatly to making bodybuilding a recognized and respected sport.

I had the great privilege of meeting Arnold several times at the Gold's Gym in Venice Beach. These exchanges remain among my most precious memories. Watching Arnold train and interact with him was incredibly inspiring. His energy, enthusiasm and willingness to share his knowledge were truly motivating.

Arnold Schwarzenegger remains an iconic figure, a model of success in many fields. His philosophy of life, based on determination, discipline and the pursuit of excellence, continues to inspire millions of people.

Discover this article to learn more about Arnold Schwarzenegger's career.

Conclusion

This ranking of best bodybuilders of history will have taken us on a journey through the ages. From legend Arnold Schwarzenegger to rising star Chris Bumstead, these athletes have not only sculpted incredible physiques, they've inspired millions of people around the world.