The truth is quite clear to anyone who was present during this period: either as a competitor or an observer.
Mentzer was the most popular bodybuilder in the world during his prime [ with the fans up until Arnold started making movies] - NO doubt about it. Ask Bob Kennedy or Wayne Gallasch [ sp] who was the main person selling videos at the time. He was the modern day Steve Reeves with a spectacular look [ head to toe when in shape] that no one could match. I remember in London, Mentzer gracefully walking down the street and everyone [ non bodybuilders and especially women as well] going crazy. This is what happened where ever Mentzer went. He would tell me that he had so many requests from women that it was hard to comprehend. When the Mentzer's trained EVERY eye was on them. Believe it that all would trade their physiques for his in a heart beat.
At the 79 Olympia Chris Lund stated that Mentzer had the greatest physique that he had ever photographed up to that point. [ I believe this statement was published in the mags also- not sure though]. Serge Nubret stated that Mike was superior but would not be given the title [ to that effect]. Which leads us to the dark side of Mike and at the time quite an extensive one exsisted.
As I previously said Mike was the most admired bodybuilder in the world at the time because of his unique physique [ when in shape] COMBINED with his astounding good looks, excellent command of the English language, gracefull manner in which he carried himself, unparalled confidence [ like Arnold].
However:
Mike was often an abrasive, aloof, and downright rude individual. He felt [ imo] that he was royalty and in a class by himself . At every turn [ seminars, writings etc.] he would criticize the training beliefs of others and basically describe them as " know nothings". He would also tell everyone not to waste their money on supplements, protein powder, etc. which one would imagine did not endear him to the Weiders who made their money from such. He also referred to the IFBB judges in most unfaltering terms.
Thus it is not so difficult to understand why Mike was denied both the 79-80 Olympia's. Many strongly disliked Mike and some still do. However the topic of a wide pelvis and large glutes was issued which can be answered with antecedal evidence supplied:
I recall some one saying [ Ed Corney I believe] that Mentzer had more signature poses than any competitor ever; which caused me to review and agree with his assertation.
The following: leg extending sartorious
Crucifix [ his and Sergio's]
Open handed back pose
Twisting, kneeling one arm tricep
Two arms overhead forearm - only overhead pose at that time that was ever done was by -Sergio- victory pose.
One arm side [ arm extended] done from rt. or left side and done either with ONE arm or BOTH arms: As done only by Arnold and Dave Draper but theirs was only the right side with both arms.
Double forearm pose from the back
AND TO ANSWER THE WIDE HIP question the VACUUM pose done only by MIke and Zane in which we felt [ due to the fact that MIke was much thicker] his vacuum was superior. However only he and Zane could do one. Of course one of the requirements for a successful vacuum is NARROW hips- which Mike had- along with the crucifix pose also demanding the same requirement. Of course Mike had the best crucifix. Ask Robbie Robertson a person who knows a thing or two about wide hips if Mentzer had an issue there. AS far as large glutes I don't see it as an issue.
Additional comments: I remember Bob Kennedy stating that the two bodybuilders with the best genetics in his opinion was Mentzer and Yates - this was printed in one of his books. No mention of wide hips and large buttocks.
- In later life Mike apoligized to many for his behavior that may have offended others. Mike was the rare individual that had the ability to evolve as a human spirit. He was as honest an individual as I have ever known and passionately dedicated to the truth. Mike believed all he hypothesized.
Actually just the other day I was sitting outside a car wash and happened to be speaking with one of the top amateur guys today. He brought up Mentzer and how he admired him and asked my opinion. Later as I drove to the gym I realized I have never seen anyone [ dating back to the 60's] that looked as good [ head to toe] as Mike Mentzer.
