“Can’t Stand Being Beaten When I Thought I Should Have Won”: Bodybuilding Veteran Was Appalled After Losing Despite Getting Audience Approval With His Famous Crucifixion Pose in 1978

Kalman Szkalak, a bodybuilder during the 1970s, was a force of strength not only because of his chiseled physique but also because of his tenacity. His transition from refugee to world-famous bodybuilder was not easy, following his forced departure from Hungary during the Hungarian Revolution.

Not letting his hardships define his life, bodybuilder ‘Kal’ competed with many famous juggernauts of the bodybuilding industry, like Mike Mentzer, Robby Robinson, Roy Callender, and Dennis Tinerino. One particular bodybuilding incident in 1978 left the trailblazer heartbroken. Despite having the best body and presenting the world with a famous crucifixion pose, Szkalak lost to Frank Zane.

Kalman Szkalak introduces the crucifixion pose in the 1978 Mr. Olympia Championship

Earlier, a digital platform ‘Great Physiques’ curated Salman Szkalak’s journey into bodybuilding. This story throws light on the event that amassed garnered popularity for the bodybuilder.

The Mr. Olympia, 1978, was a landmark for many reasons. Reigning Mr. Olympia, Frank Zane was defending the title against Callender, Robinson, and Szkalak. A bit of controversy was also surrounding the event. Kalman Szkalak tried to create a union for bodybuilders against IFFB. He wanted bodybuilders to monetize their hard work in every which way. Any organizational shackles of that time could not tie Kal down, but the pro bodybuilder failed in his attempt.

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However, he did not let his political affiliations distract him from the larger goal of winning the 1978 Mr. Olympia title. He was in the best of his shape, having already won the biggest arms, chest, and back in 1976, AAU, Mr. America. His win against Mike Mentzer in the 1977 IFBB Mr. Universe heavyweight class further elevated his confidence.

Kalman Szkalak, sure of his success in the competition, walked on the stage and did his famous crucifixion pose. In the pose, he stretched his hands, tilted his head to one side of the shoulder, and closed his eyes. The crowd took some time to absorb the grand moment in the history of bodybuilding. After a few seconds, the entire building reverberated with applause, winning Szkalak a standing ovation.

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But to the shock of everyone, Frank Zane emerged as the winner. Roy Callender came second and the great crucifixion poser came third. One might argue that the outcome of the championship was more political than athletic. The words, “I am not so much a good winner as I am a bad loser. I can’t stand being beaten when I thought I should have won,” encapsulate his dismay at losing despite being the favorite.

Szkalak moved on to greener pastures by cycling

The champion who once worked out with Arnold Schwarzenegger and Lou Ferrigno left bodybuilding after this incident. However, he left an indelible mark on the sands of bodybuilding. Post-1978, the athlete used his strength, grit, and determination to become a professional cyclist. The bodybuilder engaged in many cycling championships from there on.

He even lost his muscles to suit his physique to the sport. Cycling attracted Kal because it gave him definitive results. He was not at the mercy of biased decisions. The cyclist said, “I appreciate the fact that when you cross the line first, there is no question about who won,” explaining his love for cycling. Have you seen Szkalak’s famous pose? Write in the comments.

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