Joe Weider was the Founder of the IFBB Mr Olympia and the first contest was held on September 18, 1965, at the Brooklyn Academy of Music, New York City, with Larry Scott winning the first of two titles. But, it wasn’t until 1977 when Frank Zane @officialFrankZane was awarded with the 1st coverted, Eugen Sandow trophy.
This is now the most sought after trophy in Bodybuilding. The Mr Olympia title is held by elite class of Bodybuilders with only 13 winners since 1965.
Below is a list of names and the number of their wins.
- Ronnie Coleman (8) 1998 – 2005
- Lee Haney (8) 1984 – 1991
- Arnold Schwarzenegger (7) 1970 – 1975, 1980
- Phil Heath (7) 2011 – 2017
- Dorian Yates (6) 1992 – 1997
- Jay Cutler (4) 2006 – 2007, 2009 – 2010
- Frank Zane (3) 1977 – 1979
- Sergio Olivia (3) 1967 – 1969
- Franco Columbu (2) 1976, 1981
- Larry Scott (2) 1965 – 1966
- Chris Dickerson 1982
- Samir Bannout 1983
- Dexter Jackson 2008
After winning the title of Mr Olympia it’s been a tradition to get their picture hung up in the main room at Gold’s Gym Venice “The Mecca of Bodybuilding”. This honor is like being in the Hall of Fame.
Arnold Schwarzenegger @schwarzenegger really brought Bodybuilding to the mainstream after the 1977 documentary “Pumping Iron.” Currently the Mr Olympia has allowed top Bodybuilders the opportunity to make more money like other professional athletes.
Dumbbell Club recognizes all the Mr Olympia title holders as best of the best.