Eight-time Mr. Olympia champion Ronnie Coleman is popular for his expertise in the sport. Although his first choice was not bodybuilding, he rose to legendary status, courtesy of his exceptional grit and determination. With an extraordinary physique, he remained a household name and made headlines with every move. Hence, when the experienced builder talked about the sudden increase in deaths in the sport, the world took notice.

In an interview back in May 2002, Coleman spoke about the testing system prevalent back in his time. He even highlighted how star bodybuilder Jay Cutler is behind a monumental decision around the sport. 

Why the sudden increase in deaths?

According to Ronnie Coleman, the reason behind recent deaths is the absence of a testing system. During his time, proper tests were done for substances like diuretics. However, now there is no such system, leading to more bodybuilders having health issues.

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The testing system started after a renowned bodybuilder passed away in 1996. It continued until Jay Cutler came into the picture. It was in 2003 when he tested positive for banned diuretics at the Mr. Olympia Championship. Following this, the muscle man threatened the league to sue them, which ultimately led to the withdrawal of the testing system. 

“They were like, ‘Okay, well we won’t keep testing, and you get the chance to keep your prize money too. We will just do away with the testing,’” said the Mr. Olympia champ. “Jay changed that. They didn’t test no more after that.” 

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Thus, Coleman believes that a testing process can bring a change in the current trend of bodybuilders dying. Moreover, it’ll also make the entire game far more realistic than it is now. 

Ronnie Coleman on Arnold Classic

Ronnie Coleman received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2021 Arnold Classic. That is where he spoke regarding the competition and the place Arnold Classic holds in his heart. 

“I’ve been coming to Arnold Classic since 1994 and I haven’t missed one yet,” he said. “I want you’ll to know that this is truly the greatest bodybuilding show on earth. Nothing against the Olympia.”

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His entire bodybuilding journey is inspirational and beyond imagination. Even a serious back injury couldn’t stop him from working hard.