When it comes to training with the Austrian Oak, there is no slacking off. And, his best friend of decades Franco Columbu found this out when he was dragged into the gym on his birthday!

Columbu, who is also a known bodybuilder, has been Arnold’s buddy since the 70s. Both of them used to work out together back then as well. And, from the 2017 video that surfaced, it felt like their workout chemistry was still as strong.

Mr. Olympia Arnold Schwarzenegger celebrating his friend’s birthday at the gym

In a video posted on Instagram in 2017, Arnold was seen taking his friend out on his 76th birthday. But, while people may enjoy leisure activities on this special day, it was not so for this muscled duo. 

Instead, Arnold was seen pushing Franco into Gold’s Gym, while saying that they were going to work out. And, while they worked out, these former bodybuilding champs also shared a few words about their unbreakable bond. The video showed their playful friendship.

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Arnie even said to the camera, “He is 76 years old and just like 52 years ago we’re still working out together, having fun together, playing chess together, eating together” to which Columbu agreed and added, “Nothing changes!”

The friendship timeline of these two individuals

Franco and Arnold have had a bond far longer than many people can imagine. These two aspiring bodybuilders met in America in 1965 and quickly formed a bond. Arnold’s first business enterprise, which was in brickwork, was also partnered by Franco. Another testament to their bond was in 1968 when Franco became Arnie’s best man at his wedding. Even Maria Shriver, Schwarzenegger’s ex-wife was in awe of their friendship!

These two even had similar career trajectories. Both had an affinity and a talent for the stage. Franco would eventually go on to become a 2x Mr. Olympia winner while Arnold would win 7 times. These two even did a few movies together with Franco even having a cameo in Terminator.

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Unfortunately, this friendship saw its end in 2019 when Franco died in Sardinia in a sudden drowning accident.  Arnold was understandingly heartbroken and paid a tribute to his friend of 54 years. And, even today, their jolly friendship remains in the hearts of their fans.