Well, here we go again. You know, I told myself that I wouldn't send another post on this ridiculous thread, where all that's getting accomplished is some of us are opening our mouths and letting the others know just how immature we really are. This seems really simple to me but maybe I'm missing something. The last time I checked the IFBB was a business. Okay, technically it's a Federation of Athletes but we all know the IFBB wouldn't be around very long if it wasn't making money. That being said, why in the world would an organization touted (and rightfully so) as having the best bodybuilders in the world, not want to recruit the best athletes from around the world to compete within their ranks. I may be the only one out there but don't you think adding world class physiques like Sami's would only add to the popularity and success of the organization. In my humble opinion, the bodybuilding powers that be seem to be moving towards awarding bodybuilders that posses the more aesthetic and well conditioned physiques. The problem with the IFBB in the past was that bodybuilders represent a very small percentage of the public and as such our sport has struggled to win over the general public. This has resulted in a stagnation of our sport. Now that the tables seem to be turning and bodybuilders such as Dexter Jackson are finally getting the rewards they deserve I think it may be a turning point for our sport. That being said, physiques like Sami's would only serve to increase the popularity of our sport, bringing it more into the mainstream. You haters out there (for lack of a better word) have to admit, wouldn't you love to see what Sami could do on stage with the best our sport has to offer. Win or loose I bet you would be the first ones to log on to the net or buy you favorite magazine to see what happened and compare and contrast physiques. (since we know most of us are professional armchair judges) To me this is a no brainer. Obviously there are rules and regulations that all organizations have to follow. I would think that individuals who have any responsability for the success of the IFBB would be doing all they can to recruit athletes like Sami. Should he comply with whatever rules and regulations they set forth then I think it would be in the best interest of the IFBB as well as bodybuilding in general (that would include all of us) for the IFBB to implement a program or a set of guidelines for just such situations.
Now, as far as the not competing in other professional organizations so you can wait on the IFBB, let me just say if you are a competitive bodybuilder then it's in your blood. Sitting on your ass waiting is not an option. Enough said. This one doesn't deserve to be discussed on this forum at all.
Sami, keep up the good work. Do what you do and let your physique speak for itself. Believe me, even Stevie Wonder can see your potential. I'm praying that you will get your chance to "do what you do". Enough said.
Pat
