Bodybuilding had to go through numerous transformations and was subject to several social prejudices before being accepted as a sport in the eyes of the public. It was not until Eugen Sandow entered the fitness industry that bodybuilding was shaped into what we see today. Years after his death, the Nigerian Lion, Samson Dauda paid tribute to the legend.

Samson Dauda was one of the most anticipated Mr. Olympia contestants of this year. With his debut rank being sixth last year, Dauda has not looked behind. This season, the bodybuilder has proved his capacities and ranked high up, securing the 3rd position. Yet, the bodybuilder understands his own capabilities and thus he aims higher. In an attempt to do that, he paid his respect to the man who made all of it possible.

Samson Dauda’s visit to Sandow’s gravestone

A weightlifter back in his own time, Sandow was one of the very first people to host a competition simply judging one’s physical aesthetics instead of their strength in lifting heavy weights. Hence, 1901’s “The Great Competition” is still considered the beginning of bodybuilding.

Dauda’s latest Instagram post showed him sitting next to Sandow’s memorial. In the caption, he articulated his respect for the beginning of what he now considers as his profession. He wrote, “The history of what we do. Eugen Sandow. Memorial. The father of bodybuilding.”

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Eugen Sandow is highly respected in the entire bodybuilding industry. Owing to that, one of the most prestigious contests, Mr. Olympia pays its homage by awarding winners the Sandow Trophy.

Mr. Olympia’s Sandow Trophy

With Frank Zane’s win in 1977, Sandow Trophies got standardized as the choice of awards for the marquee bodybuilding event. This continues to prevail even now, decades later. In the history of Mr. Olympia only 2 winners, Sergio Oliva and Larry Scott, were not given the trophy. It was initially inspired by the bronze trophy awarded during “The Great Competition” by Sandow himself. The sculptor Charles Lawes-Wittewronge’s work thoroughly recreated the classical physique of Eugen Sandow.

All sports change over time. However, it is imperative that one often revisit the beginning of what made the sport what it is today. Sandow’s contribution to bodybuilding remains unparalleled and Dauda’s respect for him showcases his true love for the passion that he pursues.

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