Man look at that top 5 in 83...You have to admit, it's strange how back in the day, top 5 at the Nationals were already big names and would go on to become bigger names. In the last decade, how many have gotten pro cards at the nationals and done diddley squat since? Maybe a few become top competitors. Back then not just the winners but the fucking entire top 5 went on to become superstars. It's crazy.
Also the judges do and don't reward certain physiques. I mean it's not like someone dictates to them "either weigh x amount or you're getting dead last kid!" Each bodybuilder has his own set of genetic material to work with. It just so happens that a lot of genetically gifted bigger guys have taken center stage and a lot of genetic also rans have tried to keep up but that is beyond the scope of what they are capable of. So, since they LOVE bodybuilding and can't see themselves doing ANYTHING else, they pump up more drugs and just keep chasing the dream that will never ever happen. It just so happens that MOST of todays competitors suck, genetically speaking, so what we see seems to be the same story over and over again and we wish for the good ol days when so and so competed but let's face it the superstars just aren't there right now. It might happen again, I mean you have Cedric you have Heath you have Martinez but that's about it. The rest of the pack pretty much suck. I don't see much in the way of the future. Not terribly impressed with Centopani, though I concede he might win the Olympia but his structure just isn't that pleasing. This Faod guy (I hope I am spelling his name right) certainly kicks ass and I am surpised no one has been talking about him. He looked fantastic.