For once I think Bobby is on to something. I firmly agree that this bullshit about the top 5-6 guys getting a free pass back is kinda gay. With the exception of Ronnie, make those guys work. Only the champion deserves a free pass back, the rest of the competitors need to earn that top contender spot.
We've already had a rule change, regarding the Olympia, a few years ago. Now, only the top 6 qualify for the next year's show. Before then, making the top 10 at the O qualified you for next year's extravaganza. To me, making top 5 is the equivalent of winning one of the Grand Prix shows. I certainly don't think it's a free pass. If you place that high, you've EARNED the right to be in the show the following year.
This thread is a cry of the realization that if the IFBB did require athletes to compete in more shows Mr. Coleman would no longer be Mr. Olympia. Your aesthetic types would slice through the competitions!
Ummmm.....the last time I checked, Coleman has entered shows besides the Olympia and STILL held on to his title. He has several Grand Prix wins under his belt. Plus, the year he won the Olympia (1998), he entered several pros shows, including the Toronto Pro show, the San Francisco Pro Invitational, and the Night of Champions.