First of all, the IFBB isn't going anywhere. The situation is that the PDI has a number of announcements and people are talking about it, giving the illusion that the PDI is a powerful force against the IFBB. That is not the case. The PDI is a few press releases, and some athletes that, until we actually see a contest and them actually competing in it, is just a bunch of words. To that extent, I wish the PDI the best in trying to become an alternate for the IFBB. I don't think Wayne nor others want the fact to use the PDI to attack the IFBB. That isn't fair.
For many of us, the IFBB represents a way of generating income and supporting bodybuilding. The shows, whether the Arnold, the Olympia, and others bring fans, vendors, gym owners, trainers, store owners and much more into an area to socialize and build up. Many companies owe and respect what the IFBB has brought to us all.
We can complain about it, it is a free speech to do so, but we must acknowledge that it too has brought us some of the best contests under that organization. Still, we can debate that in another thread.
Now, in terms of the previous statement, I beleive that it applies only to 'amatuer' organizations that do not give any money to their athlete. If an athlete from the NPC wants to compete in another Amatuer contest like the PDI qualifiers, I beleive they can without any problems based on that ruling above. However, that is not for me to decide, ask someone who really knows the rules.
Now, pros are an entirely different manner. Once you get money from an organization, and you agree to be a part of that organization, by signing your IFBB pro card, you agree to a number of rules and distinctions. Albiet, they have to be fair, and not hurt your chances of making a living. If you, as a pro, decide to compete in the PDI, then you are not following the IFBB rules, and you can be suspended and not be allowed in any IFBB event. And that is for. You have made your choice to compete in the IFBB Pro League, or the PDI Pro Division.
Now if an athlete decides to go to an event that is by the PDI, there should be no problems, provided that he represents the IFBB, and makes no distinction that he is there to represent the PDI. The same way that an Arena Football player can go an check out an NFL football game. In fact, an IFBB athlete should go to the PDI and wear an IFBB shirt.
Obviously, this is the single most talked about topic this week, because of the press releases out there, and the curiousity of this. Even the Pro Bodybuilding Radio show talked about it.
As for Bob Chick, I will say it again, he does have a good opinion and has fine points regarding the PDI, and has always proven to be one who cares about bodybuilding.
