1969 was a crucial year in bodybuilding history as it marked the commencement of the new age of bodybuilding. As 23-year-old Arnold Schwarzenegger was romping the contests in Europe, the eyes were glued on the emerging star. Finding a place on magazine covers, Arnie made his presence already known. Winning the competition two times in a row, Sergio Oliva was that year’s defending champion.

The world was looking for a new champion, and young Arnold, who won the NABBA title, seemed to be a good fit. Arnold, who “never liked to admit defeat,” gave his thoughts a second chance when he saw ‘The Myth’ for the first time.

Arnold Schwarzenegger was shocked seeing ‘The Myth’

Winning the coveted title two consecutive times was no child’s play. Finding the 240-pound and 5’10” tall Sergio, the right competitor, was tough for Weider and the Olympia committee. But then came Arnold, the 23-year-old for the first time, posing beside Sergio Oliva. A moment that henceforth became one of the most iconic moments in bodybuilding history.

But how did Arnold feel when he met Oliva for the first time? The seven-time Mr.Olympia champion opened up on the same. He said, “It was as if I’d walked into a wall. He destroyed me. He was so huge; he was so fantastic, there was no way I could even think of beating him.” 

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Intimidated by his presence, the young bodybuilder “settled for second place before we walked out on the stage.” Though losing the game was never on his cards but he “thought Sergio was better.” Repeating history that year, Sergio took home the title for the 3rd time and a $1,000 cash prize. But, Arnold emerged as the hire apparent by securing the second spot.

Arnold made sure that history does not get repeated 

In 1960 Arnold settled for less, but for the 1970 competition, he was in no mood to leave ‘The Myth’ any space. It’s very rare that bodybuilders of such enormous physiques compete with each other. As 6’2″, Arnold challenged the 5’10” Sergio, the audience knew they were in for an epic battle.

After having dominated the Mr.Universe stage, Arnold was ready to claim the most coveted title in the bodybuilding stage. Turning heads, he stopped Sergio from claiming his fourth title.

Watch This Story: The first ever bodybuilder to claim Mr. Olympias’ title in 1965

With that year’s win, the bodybuilding stage did not just get a new winner but also witnessed the birth of the “Austrian Oak.” Arnold eventually won the title six consecutive times and reclaimed another after a five-year gap, bringing his total to 7.