Last year, the bodybuilding community saw the emergence of new stars on the big stage with Mr. Olympia 2022. Amongst many shocking statements by a number of experts of the sport, another bold statement was thrown into the mix by bodybuilding veteran Lee Priest regarding the existence of the 212 division at Mr. Olympia. Although the changes have the potential to change the entire scene of the sport.

Recently, in an interview with Rx Muscle, Lee Priest made some alarming statements about the 212 Olympia. In fact, he wanted it removed and suggested that the prize money awarded to the division winner should be added to the prize pool of the open category. As surprising as the request sounds, the statements caught a lot of attention.

The veteran did prove his point

The bodybuilding veteran not only wants the money shifted from the 212 division to the open category’s prize pool, but he also wants 212 division bodybuilders to compete with the open category bodybuilders. Back in 2011, 212 was introduced for bodybuilders who had less size and muscle mass. But what triggered the veteran to give such a bold statement?

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Lee Priest explains to Rx Muscle the reason why he wants this change, and said, “Because we’re seeing some of these 212 guys get up there, look Hadi was 212, he won the Olympia. Derek, we’ve seen Shaun Clarida, if he does well in this… yeah Bonac, I say get rid of the 212 class and use that money for the Open, so you can distribute more money in the Open. Get rid of 212, if you’re a good enough bodybuilder, you should be able to stand with the best of the best.”

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The 212 division has seen a lot of changes throughout its existence of over a decade. The rule of the division having a height limit of 5’5″ was later removed. The weight rule wasn’t removed, as the participant should weigh less than 212 pounds or the same. While Priest claimed that the 212 bodybuilders are certain to rise above and participate in the open category, Choopan among many served as a testament to Priest’s beliefs.

What’s next for the bodybuilding community?

The first bodybuilding event of 2023 is over a month away. The long-awaited 2023 Arnold Classic will take place in Ohio, Columbus, from March 2nd–5th. The tickets are already on sale, ranging from $60–$799.

In the same interview, Lee Priest also mentions how Arnold Classic 2023 will be a battle between Shaun Clarida and Nick Walker. He is excited as both of these bodybuilders are hungry for the title and will be coming up with their best shapes. Nick Walker would be trying to take back the glory that he lost in the 2022 Arnold Classic. This year’s Arnold Classic will be worth the wait.

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Whom are you rooting for in the upcoming Arnold Classic? Let us know in the comment section.