Modern bodybuilding icon Nick Walker is among made a statement this weekend, winning the New York Pro 2024. However, as The Mutant competed at the 2024 New York Pro, four-time Mr. Olympia Jay Cutler posted a throwback image. Watching the bodybuilders compete for their Olympia ticket reminded Cutler of the past.

Jay Cutler, the only one to avenge his loss on the Olympia stage, shared images from his 1998 pro bodybuilding debut. While Cutler would become a legend of the sport, his debut at the 1998 New York Pro was lackluster. However, the Comeback Kid still cherishes the memory of going up against the best 90s bodybuilders.

“With the New York Pro going down this weekend I figured this would be a good time for a #flashbackfriday to my pro debut at the 1998 Night Of Champions,” wrote Jay Cutler. In the 90s, Wayne Demilia started the prestigious bodybuilding contest in New York under the Night of Champions moniker.

However, the IFBB renamed the show the New York Pro after requiring it from Waye Demilia, who split from the IFBB in 2004. “I finished 12th out of 17 competitors,” said Jay Cutler. “Not only was it my first time on a pro stage, but also my first time competing against @ronniecoleman8,” wrote the 50-year-old.

Coleman won the show, Kevin Levrone placed second, with Mike Matarazzo in third. He also revealed that Milso Sarcev beat the debut, finishing in 11th place. “As a regular guest on the @cutlercast, he (Milos Sarcev) loves reminding me!” added Jay Cutler. However, the bodybuilding icon didn’t forget to congratulate Nick Walker.

Jay Cutler had faith in Nick Walker

The four-time Mr. Olympia posted a picture of the victorious Nick ‘The Muntat’ Walker. “2X New York Pro Champion. Congrats @nick_walker39. Onto the Olympia!” encouraged the 50-year-old bodybuilder. Many people doubted Nick Walker’s ability to win the 2024 NY Pro after his guest-possing session at the Pittsburgh Pro.

However, Jay Cutler was among the few who defended Walker. People said the 2022 Olympia bronze medalist looked too big, with a bloated midsection. However, the Comeback Kid spoke experience and didn’t doubt Walker. “2001. How much weight did I lose the last week? Talk about it all the time. Almost 30 pounds,” said Cutler.

His faith in Nick Walker losing weight and nailing peak week wasn’t misplaced. The 29-year-old bodybuilding sensation shut down the doubters, beating rivals Martin Fitzwater and Tonio Burton to become champion. So, whether it’s 1998 or 2024, the New York Pro holds a special place in Cutler’s heart.