I don't think 'more shows' is the answer.
I used to think that having a true contest 'circuit', consisting of a bunch of low-level events, would be great for increasing exposure, but when you look at the numbers, that's not sound thinking.
The costs of a professional-quality venue are too great to justify the expense when you consider just how few people are actually willing to buy tickets to see a 'pro' bodybuilding event. Then when you add in the costs of prize money, sanctioning, judges, etc., it just isn't worth it.
Imagine a world with 4 shows each year.
Mr Olympia, Arnold Classic, The Euro Show, and the LoneStar Showdown.
If you're in the continental US, there is likely a pro show in your timezone. The caliber of athletes would be incredible, as you would have to get top 5 at the ASC, EUR, or TX to earn an O qualification (although it could be #6-10 should the top 5 already be qualified).
you wouldn't have shows closing, you wouldn't have these lame lineups. Sponsors would fight for chances to be on banners. Fans would go. Of couse the athletes would do the shows, and they'd look great up there, as they didn't have to peak for the 10th time this year. And if a VYO or muscletech wanted to "run" something, they could set up adjoining expos or events in conjunction with the shows. Imagine going to Houston for a show, and spending Thurs night at the Vyo UFC match, Fri at the muscletech sports extravaganza, the BBing show on sat, and the Atlarge PLing Championships on Sunday.
