WEEK SEVENTEEN :: Who Will Win The 2005 Arnold Classic?

[admin]

TOPIC: Who Will Win The 2005 Arnold Classic?

For the week of: February 24th - March 3rd.

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This year's Arnold Classic will be exciting because the current champion, Jay Cutler, will not be competing. This leaves it wide open for the other competitors who would love to win what most believe is the second biggest IFBB pro contest.

Will Gustavo make it two in a row after his win at the Ironman Pro? Will Chris Cormier win after a second place finish last year? Or will it be somebody else? The list of the competitors:

Troy Alves
Melvin Anthony
Art Atwood
Gustavo Badell
Darrem Charles
Chris Cormier
Mark Dugdale
Anthony Freeman
David Henry
Dexter Jackson
King Kamali
Victor Martinez
Lee Priest
Frank Roberson
Idrise Ward-El

Give your opinion on who will be in the top three and give full details for why you believe it will go down that way.

BONUS QUESTIONS: Have you ever attended the Arnold Classic Expo? If so, what did you think of it and how was your experience? Was it what you thought it would be? How could it be made better?

More Info On The Contest: http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/2005arnold.htm

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Don't discuss any other topic in this section. ONLY discuss the question above.

The best response will get $50 in credit to use in our online store! The other good responses will be used in an article on the main Bodybuilding.com site, with the poster's forum name listed by it.

Thanks,
Ryan DeLuca
CEO, Bodybuilding.com

[cool_fire]

i think the first three winners will be like this
1.Gustavo Badel(He has a big mass and a great leaned muscles and he just won the iron man pro and i think he deserved it)
2.Lee Priest(He is really a big pro but he always gets out becauz of his height but he really is working hard these days his mass is getting better and better )
3.Chris Cormier(he looks light weight but now he is just amazing but not that amzing because he still misses some mass to put on in his body

[bucsfan]

I think the top three at the Arnold Classis will go in this order.

1. Dexter Jackson-Dexter is a awesome bodybuilder who has the best conditioning bar none. He also has great muscle mass and his proportions and symmetry are astronomical. If he shows up in peak conditioning I think he will take the show.

2. Lee Priest-Lee although short has awesome muscle mass for his frame. He looked great at the Ironman. I believe he will be peaking for the Arnols this year. So if he shows up better than he did at the Ironman. I think he will follow second after Dexter.

3 Gustavo Baddell-Gustavo has great muscle mass and symmetry. Coming off the win at the Ironman he is the favorite. But I think He is going to take a back seat to Dex and Lee this time.

[ortego]

1. Darrem Charles
2. Gustavo Baddell
3. Melvin Anthony

Just my guess. I haven't been following the pro bodybuilding world lately.

[clayberg]

That would rock to see Lee take it this year. He is the bomb in my book!

[pudge11]

my top 3 for the Arnold...

1. gustavo badell
2. dexter jackson
3. vic martinez

[smithdawg82]

1) Gustavo Baddell - 1st in Ironman, 3rd in Olympia. Size/Porportions are great. Deserves it
2) Dexter Jackson - Will be a close race with Gustavo, but I think gustavo will edge him out due to size. Conditioning is unbelievable.
3) Lee Priest - Incredible mass. He's hungry after not competing in the olympia, should come in this show in amazing shape.

Thats my theory

[bellisima]

dexter dexter dexter

[BLooDdRaiNe]

1. Chris Cormier
2. Gustavo Badell
3. Dexter Jackson

1. Chris Cormier - was runner up the year before and now with Jay Cutler out of the way Chris Cormier has the height and size to win 1st.
2. Gustavo Badell - is probably in top shape, however, just after Ironman competition he is probably restless. He will earn a spot as second place.
3. Dexter Jackson - although has mass, lacks height which will play against him. Arnold Schwarzenegger and Franco Columbo were having a pose down in the Mr. Olympia, both were equally massive but the title was given to Arnold because height gave him an edge. Same here with Dexter.

[cardioking]

Dexter Jackson will win because he has come so close so many times. He has great shape and surprising mass for his weight. He is always in contention for a title but never quite gets there. I believe this is his time. No one will show up in as good of shape as him. He is completely ripped and is sure to walk away with the title. Cormier will take a close second because of size but he won't beat Jackson in conditioning.

I have been to the Arnold Expo and I have the time of my life every year. If I could change just a few things about the Arnold it would be to.....

1. Put the figure show on Saturday afternoon because the attendance is higher and give these ladies more exposure to brighten the future of the sport. Also, periodically throughout the expo have a "guest poser" take the stage.... probably someone who isn't competing but would like to guest pose.

2. Take out the dancing and have the "Kurt Angle Classic" like they did at the GNC SOS in its first year. They have too many sports there that no one cares about but the people who came strictly for those events.

3. They need healthier food. You came to see everything and get supplements and things like that but then you see hamburger and junk food vendors everywhere. Make it more bodybuilding friendly!!

I enjoy everything else about the Arnold weekend. It is a great time and I am looking forward to meeting all the top pro's!

[BigJoe15]

This is who I think will win.

1. Chris Cormier: Theres always uncertancy about Chris's physique, many people question his commitment and say he's a party animal etc etc. Regardless, he has some of the best genetics in the game and his has freaky size, if he nails his conditioning and comes in full and hard. He WILL take 1st especially now Jay is out of the equation.

2. Dexter Jackson: This guy is as hard as nails (in a bodybuilding context) He has great symetry and freaky cuts which would leave Bruce Lee wimpering by the leg extention machine! The only problem for Dex Jackson seems to be competing with the other mass monsters on the scene. I personally would rather see a lighter Dexter with total symetry and a shreded midsection, than a heavier Dexter with unproportioned mass! He seems to know the strength in his physique is his aesthetically pleasing appearence and freaky condition. I think if he can CAREFULLY add a little more mass for this show or come into this show with good conditioning/full hard muscles, he will take 2nd. He does not however have the size at the moment to compete with the likes of Cornier, Jay and Ronnie as the judges favor the mass monsters at the moment, no matter how un aesthetically pleasing they might be! (ooh controversial)

3. Gustavo Badell: Great proportions and freaky size but what state of mind and condition will he be in after his win at the Ironman? He definitly has what it takes to challenge Dexter Jackson and Chris Cormier for 1st, I doubt he can do this straight after the Ironman against two athletes who will obviously trying to take this competition. It will be tight but I would say Badell won't be in the limelight this time and will nudged out of his place by two other bodybuilders who can match/surpass his physique.

Who would I like to see take 1st 2nd and 3rd?

I personally would like to see Dexter Jackson take 1st due to his crazy, ripped condition. He is what I feel a bodybuilder should look like, his eye pleasing, symetrical physique embodies the spirit of bodybuilding. Guys like Ronnie are phenominal, but they seem to have lost a grip (as have the judges) on what bodybuilding is about!

I would like to see Lee Priest take 2nd place, I like his attitude and approach to bodybuilding in general. He also has a brilliant physique complete with a set of the most freakiest arms in the IFFB ranks. But he does lack in some areas such as his chest and legs. I am always uncertain of how he will do when it comes to conditioning!

I would like to see "Marvolous Melvin" take 3rd, he has great symetry, a crazy back and an all round ballanced physique. Its just a question of him being able to put on enough mass whilst maintaining his balanced condition!

By BigJoe

[TRICK D]

Who will win the Arnold Classic with Cutler out of the way???

Well this is going to be a complete mystery until the show.

Here is who I think are the contenders.


Chris Cormier- The 5 time consective runner up in the arnold classic will be here in his best shape possible I am sure. Chris has been competing for many years now. If he doesn't win it this year, will he ever?

Dexter Jackson- The blade himself felt as if he has been cheated in both the olympia and the arnold last year, and who can argue with him, he looked great. I guarantee that he will be cut and huge as ever!

Gustavo Badell- Ironman pro, and 3rd in olympia makes his last 6 months great. Can he continue? Possibly, if he is going to be a great bodybuilder, this will be his year.

Outsiders:

Darrem Charles- According to flex he is heavier than ever, so can who I think is the new sultan of symetry come in and have a year as good as last? I think he can. Look for him around 5th overall.

Lee Priest- Looked great at the ironman pro, but still didn't get the victory he wanted, with more competition, i see him being between 4-6 if he comes in as good as the ironman.

Victor Martinez/Melvin Anthony: Both are long shots at winning, although Luke Wood (pro bodybuilder) thinks Vic is going to win it all. I see them finishing just outside the top 5.

So who is the top 3?

1. Dexter- Gets payback for losing to gustavo at the olympia
2. Cormier- 2nd for the 6th time in the row
3. Gustavo- GH Gut just doesn't get him the win


It will be an excellent Arnold, and you should really watch if it you can.



Bonus Question:

I have never been, but luckily I am going this year. I am from Huntington West Virginia and this year I will definitely be at the expo. I can't wait to meet the pros, and to go to the bodybuilding.com booth!

[BigDubbDiesel00]

I think the tops three winners at the Arnold Classic will be:

1 - David Henry because he has extremely low body fat and is very well proportioned. When he flexes his pecs you can see how much attention he has put into them.

2 - Troy Alves because he has a next to perfect upper body physique. I think he'll lose to David Henry because Troy needs to work of total muscle mass and muscle seperation in his quads.

3 - Dexter Jackson because he has an amazing physique and awesome muscle seperation however when seeing him from a front on view he lacks the V-shape in his upper body. He needs to work on expanding his rib cage and widening the lower lats. Also I think his calves could be bigger.

[antihero]

1-Lee Priest
2-Melvin Anthony
3-David Henry

#1 - The number one spot goes to the big man, Lee Priest. He is an amazing bodybuilder in general, and has some bodyparts that can blow other clear out of the water (so to speak). He has some serious strengths that out-weigh the weaknesses. His biggest strength has to be his hamstrings (so long as he is cut down properly). Nextly, are his calves, many pro's overlook them, but when it comes to judging, that is usually a big downfall. Thirdly, he has got some great vascularity that is very impressive when he gets his bodyfat down to competition level. His only major weakness is his size, but hes got enough mass on his frame to still be a competitor for first.
#2 - The number two spot goes to Mevin Anthony. Too many people overlook Melvin Anthony when it comes to this competition. He has quads like tree trunks, and when he cuts down for competition, his quads show an amazing 'tear drop' quality. Hes also got some massive size, and a great back.
#3 - The number three position goes to David Henry. hes under-estimated, and what many people dont know, is that he will be coming into this competition 30-35lbs heavier than the last time he was on stage in a competition. His three biggest strengths are gonna be his back, chest, and shoulders. His back is very symmetrical, and much better built since the last time he was on stage. His pecs have astounding seperation which makes them hard to overlook. David also has great shoulders, which is one up he will have on the rest of the competitors. His only weakness is his short stature.
---------------------------------------------------
Bonus: I have not yet made it to the Arnold Classic, but i am planning on going next year. I have already worked it out that my classes for the second semester will be easy, so it wont matter if I miss them. I also have a group of friends who are planning to go with me. This is actually a very important event for me, because I plan on competing someday, and it would be a great honor to be invited to the Arnold Classic as a competitor.

[Ddogg1220]

The top three for the Arnold are without a doubt going to be Dexter Jackson, Lee Priest, and Gustavo Badell. Of course, Chris Cormier is always a threat for winning this show, but who knows what shape he'll be in.
I'd place my money on Dexter Jackson to be the most ripped guy on stage. He is extremely consistent and can be counted on to display that sharpness every time. The only problem is the judges don't show that same consistency with their placings of athletes.
Lee Priest is a freak and my favorite bodybuilder, the only problem is he has trouble coming in tight in his glutes and hams. I still think he might pull through. Who can deny those arms?
Remember how everybody was talking about how big Gunter was getting a couple of years ago. All the talk and his decent placing at the Olympia made him gain a lot of momentum and popularity. Well, I think this is what's going to give Gustavo the show before he even steps onstage. I'm not trying to knock the guy or anything like that. He's a great bodybuilder and a hard working guy. He's earned the right to be a threat for this title. If he shows up in the shape he's been showing lately, then I think he can say "Light's out- Game Over" (I don't think Ronnie will mind just this once).
1- Gustavo Badell
2- Dexter Jackson
3- Lee Priest

[bigcalves]

First of Jay Cutler is not competing this year, which opens slots for other contestants.

First off there is Lee Priest, after coming second at the Ironman Lee is hungry for a win that is long due. At the Ironman he showed alot of good conditioning and allthough he held some water in his back, i would say he deserved the 1st place. After he got 2nd i would say he is hungry and that he will give his best for the Arnold Classic, and to tell you the truth alof of people are going to be behind him, cheering him on for a win that is long overdue.

Next there is Dexter Jackson. He is the conditioning master and i believe that he won't dissapoint his fans for this one. He always comes in exellent condition, and seeing some competition in the line up i believe he will push it, and will be better than ever for the Arnold Classic. Even though the Olympia is his main focus i believe he's the contests' favorite this year. With amazing size, conditioning and summetry he will be hard to beat.

Let's not forget Gustavo Badell. After taking the front page of MD this month, his size and conditioning is exellent. He has awesome leg development and his upper body is no dissapointment either. I believe he will come in one of the best shapes he's come in a long time and i think that he will have to square it up with a couple other contestants to win.

This one is going to be very close, seeing that all of my top 3 pick are shorter bodybuilders, with alot of quality mass and excellent conditioning, but here goes:
1. Dexter Jackson
2.Gustavo Badell
3.Lee Priest

I have been to the Arnold Classic and i must say i enjoyed everypart of it. The presentation, the company booths offering samples and information and also the main bodybuilding event which has a few of the world's best athletes on stage. Also meeting Arnold S. was a honor and meeting him alone was worth the whole trip.

-- Bigcalves




**** I HOPE I WIN :) ****

[Bigbruiser79]

This years Arnold is going to be a good one. Last time it ended with a very controversial win for Jay and Chris in 2nd. If you ask me i think it should have been between Chris and Dexter with Jay in 3rd but that was last year.
My picks for this year
1. Chris Cormier
2. Dexter "The Blade" Jackson
3. Lee Preist
Chris should take it this year because I think that he is getting real tired of being a runner up to Jay. Now with Jay out it is wide open for him to show off how good he really is. Dexter though will be right behind him. My opinion, Dexter has the best conditioning in the pros right now and he hs great symmetry. The end of this show will not be a big blowout and will only come done to a few points between Chris and Dexter. Lee will round off the top third with his massive arms. If Lee can come in with better legs than he normally does than this time i think he might just take it, but i dont think that its going to happen. Those are my picks and just writing about this is making me anxious for the show.

[ford4life]

Why I chose Darrem-

After seeing the ironman results, i feel like the judges are starting to respect overall symmetry and (cough** gut size) when looking at competitors. I have always liked darrem because hes smaller but in the best conditioning of alot of those guys out there. What's the point in being ripped if all you can show off is a bulgy stomach and need to wear a bra from the gyno?

[the answer]

with jay cutler out of it this year its anybody's show, but truthfully i think the top three are Dexter Jackson, Victor Martinez, and the Gustovo Budall. Not in that order of course, but these three hands down will take it.

the answer

[dim3z]

His only major weakness is his size, but hes got enough mass on his frame to still be a competitor for first...

Lee has some awesome mass for his frame man!


He has some serious strengths that out-weigh the weaknesses. His biggest strength has to be his hamstrings (so long as he is cut down properly). Next, are his calves...


ummm have u seen lees arms lately.. theyre some of the best in the world easily. and his abs r some of the most aesthetically pleasing ive ever seen aswell. the arms r definetely lees biggest strengths, the hams n calves r very impressive aswell but the abs n ESPCECIALLY those awesome arms take the cake as far as im concerned!

[jmonte]

Here is my best guess from what I've seen over the past couple years:

1. Dexter Jackson- hard and shredded as usual with a few extra pounds to boot. He has consistently come in in great condition the last 2 yrs and the judges will reward him again here
2. Victor Martinez- freaky proportions, shredded, and unbelievable V-taper. Earning respect with condition, just not quite there with Dexter
3. Chris Cormier- I hesitate to put him here because his condition is hit and miss, but if he dials it in he could take the show. Inconsistency with conditioning will cost him and instead of second again, he drops down to third.

[tkomuscle]

1. Dexter Jackson
2. Gustavo Badell
3. Chris Cormier

I would really like to see Dexter win this one. He has one of the most symmetrical builds I have ever seen and being so small heigh wise he has really overcome a lot to look this great. Good luck Dexter!

[str8flexed]

1. Dexter Jackson
2. Badell
3. Priest

[nickx]

This year with Jay Cutler out of the show and with the big names that have signed for the show, the Arnold Classic top three winners are a hard pick. Well this is how I think it will happen.

1.- Dexter Jackson. No challenge round in this contest. Nothing will get in between Jackson and the first place. In his mind anything else than first is not an option. He will be on stage to take Badel to school and his ripped to the bone physique and simetry will do the job.

2.- Gustavo Badel. Badel is the man, thats it he can easily be crowned the most improved pro of the last ten years. The freaking Rican has added great size and thickness to his body but he has packed as much as 15 pounds between the Olympia and the Ironman most of it hard muscle however just a minimun of water under his skin will be enought for Dexter to come first.

3.- Chris Cormier. This show has been scaping from Cormiers hands for the last years. Chris is hungry and I am sure that on March 5th he will be in great shape, however he will loose to Jacksons definition and to Badels thickness. I am putting Chris in third not based in his flaws but based in the other two competitors strengths.

[pumpinfina76]

1. Lee priest, He didn't look that ripped at the ironman, Holding to much water
2. gustavo badell, lee will edge him out due to that big ass gut
3. Dexter jackson, will be third, will be in great shape.

It seems that LEE is really hungry for this one?

[sirclete]

Gustavo really impressed me when he stepped on stage at the Mr. O contest this last October. I think that his strong finish there and now winning the Ironman Pro will help him to win the Arnold. I believe that politics is a huge part of bodybuilding and right now the bodybuilding world is pushing Gustavo. Badell will blow everyone else off the stage.

Second will be Chris Cormier or Dexter Jackson.

[lilpoppapump123]

The top three this year without the presence of Jay Cutler will be:
1)Lee Priest-Small compact guy with one the best overall physiques in the business, without question best arms in the competition. Looks better than he has in several years and is poised to win after that dissapointing loss at the Ironman.
2)Dexter Jackson-King of symetry, one of the best posers in the business, and one of the toughest work ethics around; who deserves to get many more wins under his belt than he does but this will be just one more show of that nature for Dexter.
3)Gustavo Badell-Most improved body builder on the Earth in 2005, HUGE frame and immense muscularity and striations will lift Gustavo into the top 3. However, not as defined with his mass as Lee makes himself look for the differance in hiegth and weight (Should NOT have won over Priest at the Ironman!) nor as even and near perfect as Jacksons physique.

[Martial-Artist]

1. Chris Cormier
2. Gustavo Badell
3. Dexter Jackson
4. Victor Martinez

Dark Horses: Darrem Charles, Melvin Anthony, Lee Priest

With such a mega-talented lineup at this year's Arnold Classic, it will go down to the wire and the award will be given to the man who has the best conditioning. All men listed above, along w/ others, are potential victors. Here are the reasons, though, why I chose these particular champions in the order I did.

Cormer: He has the most aesthetically apealing physique of any big man in the sport and has won many bodybuilding contests, including 4 year champ at the Ironman. With his round muscle bellies, ripped to shreds striations, and huge bicep peaks, all Cormier has to do is bring in his best conditioning and Arnold will be handing him the trophy. (That and a desire to not be a bridesmaid in this show again.) Given that he's had the offseason to prepare, he'll be more than ready.

Badell: Riding high after his win at the '05 Ironman, Badell is going to come into the prestigous Arnold Classic full of momentum. His conditioning is incredible, but he hit his peak for the Ironman and the past few weeks are wearing him down. You can ask any bodybuilder, and they'll tell you how hard it is to diet and stay dieted down for a long while. Badell still has too much quality size and talent over the other guys which will bump him up to 2nd.

DJ: Being the most ripped pro on the scene, having full muscle bellies, and a never say die attitude is what keeps DJ at the pinnacle of modern day bodybuilding. There is nothing he lacks, maybe only a tiny flaw and that's high lats, but he still consistently places high at every show he enters. If judging went by pure symmetry, DJ would finish second to none. The judging however, will favor more of a combination of size and symmetry-similar to Cutler's past 3 Arnold performances-and the reward will go to a bigger man. What works in his favor though, is he's always conditioned.

Victor Martinez-Probably the most promising young talent on the circuit today. He finally put to rest some of his personal demons and has relinquished his name by nabbing a victory at the 2004 SOS. He has an incredible physique, great size at 245, and excellent conditioning. Really the only thing holding him back is muscle maturity. He truly has the potential to win the Olympia in the next 5 years. His pics from 2 weeks out look phenomenal. Watch out.

Dark Horses:

Melvin Anthony-when he does bring in his fantastic condition and combines that w/ his wasp waist, he can win almost any show and be a top 3 guy. He's looking to improve on that aspect at the Classic. Will make judging easy if he brings in conditioning. 'nuff said.

Darrem Charles: Best poser period. Super-conditioned period. Quite possibly a twin prototype of DJ, both having good size, freakish conditioning, while still not winning most shows. It will come down to how the judges favor conditioning/symmetry vs. size. He will bring both.

Lee Priest: After getting a fantastic placement (2nd) at the Ironman, Priest plans on peaking for the Arnold nearly a month later. Priest is as huge as ever and his upper body vascularity was tremendous. He needs to pull some water from his back and his legs if he hopes to place high in this show. He will probably bring in the largest arms at the Arnold Classic, but if the rest of him doesn't show up, he'll be stuck w/ nothing.

Good luck to all, hope everyone has a blast at the Arnold. Support Arnold baby!

[Ifrit]

Week seventeen topic: Who will win the 2005 Arnold Classic?


With Jay Cutler not competing in the Arnold Classic this year that leaves plenty of oppurtunity for others to take 1st place which leads me to what should be a more obvious pick for my 1st placing Chris Cormier who got second to Jay Cutler at last years Arnold Classic. Many people are beginning to call the Arnold Classic the new Mr. Olympia and gaining more attendees each year.


#1 Chris Cormier Arnold Classic History: 2004 2nd,2003 2nd,2002 2nd,2001 2nd,1999 3rd, 1998 5th,1994 4th.


As you can see Chris Cormier has placed well in all his visits to the Arnold and for good reason. He let's his body do all the talking and with the mass and conditioning like he presents he is practically screaming with each pose, not to mention his great symmetry which has obviously helped him in the placings he has gotten thus far. Alot of people said that at last years Arnold Chris had the potential to beat Jay Cutler and you will find many people that still think Cormier should have won the 2004 Arnold Classic. Jay Cutler beat him by one point last year so it's fair to see their reasoning for beleiving for this not to mention what he brought to the stage. Chris is training with Charles Glass. Charles Glass is using varied exercises to work around his lower back and knee problems. He is also working with Chad Nicholls on his diet this year. Chris beleives he will come in weighing 260 this year and it is my opinion he will take the #1 spot.

#2 Gustavo Badell Arnold Classic History: 2004 7th.


I picked Gustavo for second simply because of how he had changed from the 2004 Arnold to the 2004 Ironman, which wasn't definatley more mass and alot sharper. Gustavo got together with Milos Sarcev and it obviously has made a difference since he seemed to come out of nowhere from the placings he used to get. Gustavo trailed Dexter Jackson in the Mr. Olympia but beat him in the challenge round to finish third. I think he will be coming off the high from the Ironman which will help mentally but Chris Cormier has placed so well in the Arnold and always looks great I really don't think it will be enough for a win which is why I placed him 2nd. It really was a tough decision choosing between Gustavo and Dexter for second place seeing as how Dexter has placed so well in his previous visits. I admit although Lee Priest is my favorite Gustavo did deserve to win the Ironman.

#3 Dexter Jackson Arnold Classic History: 2004 3rd,2003 4th, 2002 3rd, 2001 5th, 2000 5th, 1999 5th.


Dexter Jackson always comes in good conditioning but it is my "opinion" he will place third due to his previous placings in the Arnold and other competitions and comparible lack of mass to that of Cormier and Badell. I think Dexter has great symmetry and always looks sharp " he is the blade" and I have always been impressedwith him in that I have never seen him with a gut, he says he is always around 10lbs difference from his competition weight and his offseason weight. I still think Dexter has the best abs out there,sadly having the greatest abs won't assure 1st place in any competition,lol. Dexter had switched his traininig from three days a week to five days a week. He is no longer working with Joe Mcneil who trained him for the 2003 Olympia and GNC shows because he has retired. Dexter said he is used to working by himself so he doesn't beleive it will effect the outcome at all. He is also eating his steak medium well rather than well done for those who really like personal information about the pros,lol. I really would have liked to place Lee Priest #1 because he is my favorite but I really don't see it and I was asked my opinion on who I think will win the 2005 Arnold Classic not who I want to win. I would also like to add I think Troy Alves and Victor Martinez are going to be placing well and may prove my placings wrong.

Competitors making my decision tough

Lee Priest.

Lee has always looked great and deserves better placings than he has gotten in the past. Many people say it's his legs and he doesn't have striated glutes but it is most likely due to his height working against him. When I first started working out I seen him in the magazines alot and it really helped me to get into lifting like I am today. He has charisma and is known for telling the truth and how it really is and I really think he would be a great embassador for the sport. There are alot of shorter guys at gyms everywhere so it would be great for them to have someone to look up to, or eye level anyways.

Victor Martinez.

Victor is always looking on point and I can't say anything negative about him or find anyone that does. Victor and Dexter have always been great examples of muscularity and symmetry and I have always been impressed with that more than shear mass. He reminds me of the old school bodybuilders and I have always admired that look more so than what is popular today. I would still like to walk around at 260 pounds for one day though. I've seen recent pictures of him and he really made my decision for third really tough. I think this will be one of the closest competitions I have ever seen.

Comparison Pictures Take a look for yourself and decide who you think should win.

Lee Priest at the 2005 Ironman http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/big/2005ironmanmen82.jpg

Dexter Jackson at the 2004 Mr. Olympia http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/big/2004oly_menpat67.jpg

Gustavo Badell at the 2005 Ironman http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/john4cbig.jpg

Chris Cormier http://forum.bodybuilding.com/photo/showphoto.php?photo=6982&sort=1&cat=523&page=1

Victor Martinez at the 2004 GNC show of Strength http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/04gnc1.jpg

Lee Priest and Gustavo Badell Comparisonat the 2005 Ironman http://bodybuilding.com/fun/05ironman1big.jpg

Overview

I have been on many bodybuilding boards and the difference of opinion who is going to win and who is going to place where is quite different from person to person but that is what makes competitions fun. There are always surprises and you never know if your favorite bodybuilder will finally get the attention they deserve. Certain Judges like certain things so just because someone is symmetrical to you and looks great doesn't mean they won't prefer someone with more mass and a little less conditioned. It's good to have knowledge about who you are talking about especially when you can visit the IFBB bodybuilding forums here on bodybuilding.com and chat with some of the pros. Give them respect in they will give it to you. I know I can't wait for the results and after writing this I want to go even more.

Bonus questions Have you ever attended the Arnold Classic Expo?

No, I have not attended the Arnold Classic Expo but I almost went this year. It is quite a drive from where I live and I hate planes so maybe when I have more time next year I will go. My friend Marty Lotito is going this year and said he will bring back some pictures and goodies so I am excited about that. I told him to visit the Bodybuilding.com booth there and talk to a guy who goes by the name of Layne (str8flexed). I also met Gerarde Dente last week at my gym where I am a trainer because we sell MHP products,he will also be there so I would have liked to see him there in the midst of it all.
From what I hear there are alot of things to do there and everyone I asked about it said it was great so I can't think of anyway it could improve nor could anyone I talked to. It sounds like Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory the way that people talk about the free samples so I have to admit I am pretty jealous.

Matt Petersen ISSA certified personal trainer

For more info about the pro's go to http://www.bodybuilders.com/pros.htm and also http://www.bodybuilders.com/proweb.htm for a list of the pros personal websites.
And for more info about the 2005 Arnold Classic go to http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/2005arnold.htm

[UliqMadiq]

Jay Cutler is out of the mix from the Arnold Classic, with the intention of preparing himself to grab the Olympia crown from Ronnie Coleman later in the year. And so with last year's winner out of the contest, the Arnold Classic promises some fresh results that could rock expectations.

After some careful deliberation, I came up with the following list of possible winners:

1 - Dexter Jackson

Dex is famous for bringing together one of the most conditioned physiques in the modern professional world, and being on the money with his conditioning every single time. Although he was ousted by Gustavo Badell in the '04 Olympia, I think nearly everyone agrees that that was one of the few flaws of the new 'Challenge Round' that robbed him of his rightful third place. The Blade was disappointed both at the Arnold Classic last year and of course the Olympia, which would understandably make him more ravenous than ever to grab the spot at the 2005 Classic.

2 - Lee Priest

The short, densely built and highly proportional Lee Priest has hopes of conquering bodybuilding titles in '05. I believe that so long as he can keep his size formidable while staying true to his strengths in proportionality and overall conditioning, the bodybuilding world's Crocodile Dundee can stake his claim to second place at the Arnold Classic. If you have witnessed one of Priest's phenomenal posing routines, you probably agree that the sheer smoothness of his motions amplifies the fact that he can carry off traditionally tall-man poses with incredible ease, despite his height. No doubt he will showcase his talents this time around as well, and come armed with his secret 'wheatgrass' (fans of 'Another Blond Myth' will of course get the reference).

3 - Gustavo Badell

The Puerto Rican Gustavo surprised bodybuilding fans when he took third place at the Olympia from bookie's favorite Dexter Jackson. It was equally surprising to a lot of us that he snatched the 2005 Ironman from Lee Priest at a whopping 250 pounds and in spot-on competition shape. He has the symmetrical build and aesthetic lines that could well place him above Chris Cormier, but it's doubtful that the Ironman results will recur this time around, and that he will be placed over Priest. Although he has some very eminent strengths - an excellent combination of mass and aesthetics, and superb conditioning - he lacks the density Lee has in the arms and legs. Onstage, I suspect Lee Priest will probably come out looking better.

Q&A
===

1) Why isn't Chris Cormier listed amongst my predictions?
It's a reasonable question given that Cormier has a strong history with the Arnold Classic, and missed out on his position last year by a mere point away from Cutler. With Cutler gone, certainly the odds are on Cormier to win. However, I don't believe he can pull off a placing this time, with Gustavo and Jackson in the shape they promise to be in, and have been in as of recent competitions. While Cormier has flawless proportionality, he cannot hold a candle to the aesthetics of Dexter, the muscular density of Priest and the newborn combination of mass and aestheticism that Gustavo has been bringing to the stage.

2) Who will place higher than expected at the Arnold Classic?
Potentially Darrem Charles. He pulled in two wins last year along with a flurry of second-place finishes, and claims to have packed on still more mass this time, but the odds of his beating some of the bodybuilding heavyweights in the Arnold Classic line-up aren't calculated very high. Yet I believe that with the hard conditioning he comes through with, not to mention potentially more mass, Charles will place a lot higher than the odds laid out seem to claim.

3) What should I look out for this year at the Arnold Classic?
Look out for a stellar posing routine from Darrem Charles, as usual. Both Lee Priest and Dexter Jackson are hungry for a win this time around, so expect both of them to show up in top form. Watch out for the rumored (but nearly confirmed) Craig Titus-Ken Wheeler martial arts showdown. If you are going to the Expo, of course look out for the all the free samples!

Bonus Question: Have you ever been to the Arnold Classic Expo?
Unfortunately, no. But a friend of mine has, and he was immensely pleased with it last year. He came back with three gym bags full of supplement samples and a large grin on his face, so no complaints there.

Comparison Pictures:
What's a list of predictions without pictures to compare odds-on winners? Here are the most recent pictures of the pros in competition shape that I picked for the Top Three.

Dexter Jackson at the 2004 Olympia (http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/big/2004oly_menpat58.jpg) - Note the hard-as-nails conditioning, the overall aesthetic proportions and incredibly well-defined lines Dexter brings to the stage.

Lee Priest at the 2005 Ironman Pro (http://bodybuilding.com/fun/john4bbig.jpg) - You can really see his incredible muscle density here. The thick arms and chest coupled with the trim midsection and small wrists really push Lee up in the ranks of pro bodybuilders.

Gustavo Badell at the 2005 Ironman Pro (http://bodybuilding.com/fun/john4cbig.jpg) - This shot shows you the outstanding proportional development Gustavo has been bringing forth of late. With a very seamless combination of mass and aesthetic lines, it should be relatively easy for Gustavo to place this year, given his ability to appear in great condition.

Lee Priest vs. Gustavo Badell at the 2005 Ironman Pro (http://bodybuilding.com/fun/05ironman1big.jpg) - A comparison shot that pits Priest and Gustavo against one another at the 2005 Ironman. Clearly, it's a very close run, but with the thick muscularity of Priest along with his flawless posing ability with which he masks any minor weaknesses, it's a strong bet that the Austrailian Blond Myth will be one up on the competition.

[B-builder]

1 Gustavo Badell.

I think he takes it, it will be close though... I suspect he will come even better than at the Iron man.

2 Dexter Jackson.

He's spot on as usual, but lacks some mass compared to some badell.

3 Victor Martinez.

He's my fav. BB-er at the moment and he'll come in better than ever! He has grown nicely and he is gonna make it tough for everybody! He'll suprise some others that are going for a Top 3 like Priest and Chris Cormier.

Bonus Question: I've never been to the Arnold classic, Since I live in The Netherlands, But I will definatly come some time in the future :)

I don't espect to win or anything, just my quick predictions :)

[BlackShhhh]

This is a really hard question.

1. Gustavo badell- The dude is 5'7 250.. His waist is expanding becasue of his size.. Plus he has be on a role. I know for a fact he will win this. Every poes is perfect. He come 100% everytime. And he has beat all these competitors previatly.

2. Christ Comier - 5-10 252. He has excelent posing, rough, skin and always comes in perfectly shredded. I really want to see him beat dexter but Im really not sure.

3. Dexter jackson- this came bettween dexter and lee. I picked dexter because everytime I expect lee to do something great he always never quit makes it. I wanted him to win the Iron pro but he didn't. If you look at the stream video. His stomach goes in and out, proving that he is breathing hard. That basically means that he is tired and out of shape. Making all his poeses alittle lacking. To win this he would have to come 100% ready for war. And I KNOW That he won't.


& thats all folks.

[oregonpanthers]

I might be out from the norm here but I honestly think it will look like this:


1st: Art
2nd: Dexter
3rd: Gustavo
4th: Lee
5th: Troy

[TRICK D]

Wow, I hit the top 3 exact, and i had melvin/priest/darrem in almost their exact order... lol

[Ifrit]

Let's hope the winner isn't chosen for who picked the right order and that's it or I spent too much time on this,lol. I had the top three right but the wrong order. I can't say I'm shocked the way the competition turned out though.

[pires_gun]

Dexter jackson is in the form of his life so he will win the 2005 arnold classic.

[str8flexed]

Dexter jackson is in the form of his life so he will win the 2005 arnold classic.

dude... news flash, he won 2 days ago ;)

[TRICK D]

^ THat kids a genious.


Too bad that i predicted the top 7 in order and still lost the damn contest. I feel like if we had a contest on who will win the presidency and everyone who placed in the top 3 predicted kerry, and i predicted bush by the exact % and still lose.


Oh well, maybe next week.

[cardioking]

but who won? I have been looking but couldn't find anything!

[bigcalves]

ok go to a past topic of the week? say its week 15 , see the number in the adress bar? type in 17 and it will show the web page, they havent put it up yet, but its done. :D i didnt win either, next time .:D

[UliqMadiq]

Hey, I was the second place winner. Just wondering, how do I go about redeeming the $20 I won?

[BigTimeBulk]

Lee Priest Has Amazing Biceps, His Mass Is Rediculous