Out of curiosity, how many people trashing Phil have met him in person? I'm sure Wiggs has, among others [it sounds like IronMagazine.com met him]. I know this board attracts a lot of people who go to the expos.
I always found Phil to be very fan-friendly. I don't imagine I would be in a better mood if I was on the road as much as he is, while also carrying around so much muscle which must be exhausting in and of itself. He may be a little bitter now, but maybe his meteoric rise to prominence in bodybuilding gave him a false impression of how things are for most bodybuilders. He has always worked hard, but he was also making at least $80,000 a year in bodybuilder as far back as 2006, when he was 26 and had just won his pro card. Now he is seeing how fickle the bodybuilding community is, and how they - the fans - always want something new. And I suppose "Phil wins again" is just old hat by now.
From what I've heard in the industry, Phil has made enough money where he would have enough to live off for the rest of his life if he actually saved his money. And far too often, people in Phil's position do not save money [top Black champions in any sport.
Just kidding...uh...sorta].
Phil should be able to made another million or two based on his current status. I would save that cash and focus on slimming down upon retirement. Phil just turned 39 - he can hopefully reverse some of the negative side effects of bodybuilding and lead a relatively normal life, depending on his individual response to hormones. I hope he doesn't do what Nasser El Sonbaty and other retired pros have done - and stay way too big way too long.
