Week 156 :: Who Will Win The 2008 Arnold Classic?

[webmaster]

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* Note: How can I win? 1. Answer all questions in the order that they are asked. 2. Go over reviews (located at the bottom of past TOTW articles) and see what was said about those that did not win. Good Luck!
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TOPIC: Who Will Win The 2008 Arnold Classic?

For the week of: February 6th - February 12th
Wednesday @ Midnight Is The Final Cut (Mountain Time, US & Canada).

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Who Will Win The 2008 Arnold Classic?

Victor is out so who will be the top dog this year? Will "The Gift" come in and blow everyone out of the water? This year's Arnold Classic is not short on talent and one of many shows during the year to qualify for the Olympia. Next to the Olympia this is easily one of the biggest shows of the year and does not disappoint.

Give your opinion on who will be in the top 10 and give full details for why you believe it will go down that way.

* Last updated: February 6th, 2008.

2008 Arnold Classic Men's Competitors

Melvin Anthony
Gustavo Badell
Adorthus Cherry
Toney Freeman
Kai Greene
Deshaun Grimez
Phil Heath
David Henry
Dexter Jackson
Johnnie Jackson
Desmond Miller
Ronny Rockel
Silvio Samuel
Branch Warren

Bonus Question: Have you ever attended the Arnold Classic and 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?

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[History in Effect]

Who Will Win The 2008 Arnold Classic?

Victor is out so who will be the top dog this year? Will "The Gift" come in and blow everyone out of the water? This year's Arnold Classic is not short on talent and one of many shows during the year to qualify for the Olympia. Next to the Olympia this is easily one of the biggest shows of the year and does not disappoint.

My choice to win the Arnold Classic has to be Gustavo Badell. He showed the world at the 2004 Mr. Olympia that he was ready for the limelight and I believe at the Mr. Olympia he will be able to show his skills. He also finished third at the Classic that year too. I believe with the help of the great Chris Aceto (also Jay Culter's nutritionist and his better training with certainly dial him in for the classic.

He might not be the biggest, but in bodybuilding the focus is on looking the best on stage. Conditioning plays a major role in being able to hold the poses and carrying the most weight on these packed frames. This year he looks to bring the total package to the Classic.

As for his competitors, I see a couple of names who should be able to challenge him this year. The talk has been about Phil Heath and his improvements in size, but people have to realize that conditioning and getting use to that size is important. Badell has that muscle maturity in that his muscles look good all around and Heath still needs to gain weight.

Dexter Jackson and Silvio Samuel are some freaks and their symmetry is crazy, but their lack the frames to put on maximum muscle. Badell hold the symmetry and muscle size needed for a a bodybuilder. These are just a few of his competitors, but I believe he will shock the world again like he did in 2004. I look for a strong showing in the Ironman and then a win at the Classic.

[regmac]

Has this happened to you others?

[CR Racer]

Who Will Win The 2008 Arnold Classic?


Becuase Victor is out, i beleive Dexter Jackson will come out to be top dog this year. i really like him as a BB'er and in my opinion his physic is the best out of all the other competitors.

No, i have never attended this show. Sorry

[Crossroads]

As a die hard bodybuilding fan I always look forward to late February/early March for what in my opinion is the greatest bodybuilding show (No offense to the Olympia)the Arnold Classic. In my opinon this is the show of shows every year with the best field of hungry competitors.

With Big Vic out of commission this could be the most competetive Arnold in years (Victor would win hands down when healthy). Early pics of Phil "The Gift" Heath have him looking like the front runner, but I still question if he was able to add the thickness and width to his back he will need to not disappear next to the likes of Gustavo Badell and Toney Freeman. I like how Gustavo and Johnnie Jackson are looking coming into the Ironman next week, and of course you can never count out the perfect proportions of Melvin Anthony and Silvio Samuel or the ridiculous mass of muscle that is Branch Warren.

So who will win??? When it comes to the final posedown it will be Dexter "The Blade" Jackson who will be holding the trophy in a 2 point victory over a much improved Phil Heath. Dexter is going to come in with a few extra pound of muscle, dry, and shredded to the bone. He will have added a little width to his back and his lines and seperation will border on perfection. The judges will not be able to overlook his semetry and superior confidence. Melvin Anthony will come in a disappointing third (very close call for second) with Gustavo (4th), and a more defined Toney Freeman rounding out the top five (Silvio 6th, Johnnie Jackson 7th, Ronny Rockel 8th, David Henry 9th, Branch Warren 10th).

My last views will be on Ronny Rockel who I beleive would be one of the prominent bodybuilders (winning shows) in the world if he did not live outside the U.S. Ronny has a beautiful all around package with plenty of muscle to spare. If I didn't think the judges would totally overlook him I would place Ronny in the top 6 no questions asked (Top 2 if the show was in Australia or Germany)!!!!! I

[extremenergy3]

AD Cherry is in the Arnold Classic? I did feel he owned Evan Centopani in many poses during the Nationals But I don't think he can take the big boys just yet...

[History in Effect]

Who Will Win The 2008 Arnold Classic?
[/QUOTE]

The order will look like this

Gustavo Badel
Phil Heath
Dexter Jackson
Melvin Anthony
Toney Freeman
Johnnie Jackson
Silvio small and chiseled Samuel
David Henry
Ronny Rockel
Branch Huge Chest Warren

[bigcalves]

Great Topic!
With Victor out, this is gonna be the most exciting Arnold in years!!!

[RoadPigJohn]

Who Will Win The 2008 Arnold Classic?

Victor is out so who will be the top dog this year? Will "The Gift" come in and blow everyone out of the water? This year's Arnold Classic is not short on talent and one of many shows during the year to qualify for the Olympia. Next to the Olympia this is easily one of the biggest shows of the year and does not disappoint.

Give your opinion on who will be in the top 10 and give full details for why you believe it will go down that way.

Despite the twist and turns of the X-MAN Toney Freeman, there is no doubt that he is going to show his best shape to date at the Arnold Classic 2008 but there is a strong competitor better know as the gift, that is focus and looks capable to win the show. Phil Heath hungrier than ever, looks tough to beat at this contest, because of his recent showing at the Weider camp.

2008 Arnold Classic Men's Competitors

Melvin Anthony
Gustavo Badell
Adorthus Cherry
Toney Freeman
Kai Greene
Deshaun Grimez
Phil Heath
David Henry
Dexter Jackson
Johnnie Jackson
Desmond Miller
Ronny Rockel
Silvio Samuel
Branch Warren

Men - The list of the competitors:
Give your opinion on who will be in the top ten and give full details for why you believe it will go down that way.

1-Phil Heath makes the decision to put a plan together with his friend and advisor Jay Cutler, to bring the look that gave the current Mr.Olympia champ his first Sandow statue. Bringing new training techniques and nutrition plan to the table to make the transformation from a great bodybuilder to a more impressive, refined and muscular athlete.

With commitment and excitement the former New York Pro champion is adding everything on the line to show that he is capable to beat his competition with a solid performance combining a very muscular and well balance physic with extreme hardness an sliced mid section.

2. Dexter Jackson, the former Arnold Classic champion and the current Australian Pro champion, is coming to prove why he is called the blade and the razor sharp of bodybuilding. With his upset at this year Arnold Classic last year, won it by Victor Martinez, Dexter is committed to demonstrate to his fan base that he is the man with the rights to defeat the current champ with his incredible ripped to the bone balanced body. The only thing Dexter has in mind right now is to reestablish him ones again in the winners circle.

3-Toney Freeman, the former Ironman champion and top contender this year title, is confident and ready to decimate his opponents at Los Angeles Convention Center. The X-Man with gargantuan proportions and extreme hardness is looking for revenge from his last showing the Mr.Oympia 2007. If Toney added new quality size to his structure and is ripped to the bone ones again, don?t be surprise if he win the show.

4-Gustavo Badell, The former Ironman and San Francisco champ is coming with one objective in his mind, to be the next Arnold Classic champion, with a great symmetry and incredible hardness, Gustavo is going to battle for the title in Columbus. The former Olympia showdown champ is going to be ready to take the advantage; since he already prove that he is capable to beat any of the athletes mentioned. Gustavo is improving his size and condition every year, so make no mistake if he surprises us in Ohio.

5-Silvio Samuel is one razor sharp phenomenon, he has it all. Proportioned arms development, Hugh deltoids, deep lat thickness, awesome quads and a tiny little waist. He had striated glutes and hams and incredible separation that make him the undisputed winner of this show. The new Segio Oliva of bodybuilding Silvio Samuel is going to destroy the entire field of Ohio with no mercy. The dark horse of the night and his mentor Charles Glass have a plan to make the Spanish Pro the look of that judges want.

6. Kai Greene, the show man of the night is ready to spit fire and glorify himself with the most recognized bodybuilders of the world. With his new ultra sharp condition ans muscles comparable to a younger Shawn Ray, there is no doubt that he is going to step hard in Ohio. The predator is making his Arnold Classic debut with great hopes from his fan base and the recognition of the heavy critics of the business so be ready to see the man on mission looking at his best.

7-Desmond Miller the former NPC National Champion is coming to prove why he placed top 5 at last year New York Pro. The only thing that put Desmont behind his competition for the top 3 is his structure; with his new ultra sharp condition and muscle comparable to a younger Ronnie Coleman, there is no doubt that he is going to step hard in Los Angeles.

8- David Henry is a contender for the title with an intimidating presence, balanced upper body, amazing arms structure, incomparable deltoids, striated chest, legs and smaller waist. His back is thick, wide and detailed. 2008 looks to be his year, the man many consider to be the clone of Danni Padilla, is more than ready to prove in Columbus his A game.

9- Johnnie Jackson is going to be a surprise. With his great shape and symmetry he could place on top ones again. He had a nice back, great delts with incredibly thick lats from the front and rear. Great striated hams and glutes rounded out the lower half. Johnnie is ready to prove why he is a former IFBB champion..

10-Branch Warren, He has one of the most complete physiques on the planet. He has the roundest back with great detail and thickness. Quads, hams and calves are from another world. The thickest chest and major guns round a package that comes complete with hard condition. I predict the Branch to nails his condition and get a top place for that.

Bonus Question: Have you ever attended the Arnold Classic? 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?

I never visited Ohio so for that reason, it would be very entertaining to go there and attend to a bodybuilding show like the Arnold Classic and feel the excitement of the venue and the live crowd. I heard good things about the Arnold expo with hugh events in different disciplines and the promotions from the supplement companies with tons of souvenirs for the public in attendance, something very similar to the Mr.Olympia Weekend.

[Rodzilla]

Who will win the 2008 Arnold Classic

The 2008 Arnold Classic has one of the most exciting line ups ever. This year will be no easy task for the judges, or competitors. All of the competitors are top five caliber, let alone top ten. With that being said, I have a few ideas as to how the placing may go.

10. Johnnie Jackson Look up ?thick? in the dictionary, and the name Johnnie Jackson is sure to appear. JOJ is known to be the strongest athlete in the IFBB, and regardless of what exercise science tells us, in JOJ?s case, size and strength have a direct correlation. So long as Johnnie can display his massive amounts of muscle with quality conditioning, he is sure to be a top ten guy.

9. David Henry Easily the most conditioned athlete of the contest. With the exception of a few mishaps last season, David ?goliath killer? Henry has shown time an again that he knows a thing or two about coming in shredded. At only 5?4? he packs an incredible amount of muscle on his frame. Unfortunately for him, the larger competitors seem to always get the nod, which is the only reason I have him at a very respectable, yet disappointing ninth.

8. Gustavo Badell Gustavo is a fierce competitor, you can just tell by the way he carries himself on stage that this guy means business. Gustavo has the size, and experience to be tops of the show, but he has had problems nailing his condition in the past. He is going to have to come in absolutely peeled, if he wants to keep up with this group.

7. Kai Greene Talk about improvement! Kai has been around the game for awhile now, but only last year did he finally break out of his shell and show the IFBB what he is really made of. Couple Kai?s greatly improved physique; with his outstanding posing routines and you have one heck of a show. Seventh may seem like a low placing, however; with a field like this, it is anything but.

6. Ronnie Rockell Rockell is probably the most proportional athlete in the IFBB right now. Where all the other competitors seem to have that one weak body part; Rockel has none. I think Ronnie may have gotten a few more looks this past season by doing a couple more shows in the states. With Ruhl retired, and Wolfe sitting this one out, I think Rockell will represent Germany very well with a sixth place finish

5. Silvio Samuel Silvio is coming off of one of the most impressive IFBB seasons ever. It seems as if this guy was a top five finisher in nearly every contest he entered. Not only that, but he seemed to get better with each consecutive contest. You may think that a competitor would get worn down, and lose his edge after so many consecutive appearances, but not Mr. Samuel. He finished out the 07? season with a seventh place finish at his first ever Olympia contest. Silvio?s huge muscle bellies on those miniscule joints make him appear much larger than he is. I don?t think this guy could drop below the five spot.

4. Toney Freeman After his uncharacteristically low placing at the 2007 Olympia, the X-man is going be as hungry as ever for a top spot. He?s got the size, now if he can nail his conditioning, and stay full, we will most likely see that huge v-taper and those flaring quads with a top four finish.

3. Melvin Anthony rewind back to the 06? Olympia; Melvin had added considerable size to his frame while keeping his signature tiny waist. Marvelous Melvin had a tremendous amount of momentum heading in to the next IFBB season only to be put out of commission by a hernia. The lengthy recovery had him miss the 07? Arnold. He came back in time for last year?s Olympia where he left with a sixth place finish. Now that he is healthy once again, lets see if Marvelous Melvin Anthony can pop, lock, and drop his way into a top three finish.

2. Dexter Jackson The blade knows a thing or two (pun intended) about winning Arnold Classics, he won back to back in 05-06, only to be upset by big Vic last year while going for his third. With Vic out of the way, the blade is as close as ever to his third AC title. You may be wondering why I have Dexter second; call me crazy, but I think the next guy will be giving him a serious run for his money.


1. Phil Heath At last year?s AC, Heath showed that he had the shape and conditioning to be a serious contender for the number one spot. With this off season?s newly added size, the AC title looks like it may be in his hands. There is a reason why they call him ?The Gift?

The Expo

I have been to the Arnold Expo twice, and will be going for a third time this year. The night show is great, but you won?t have a true Arnold experience without visiting the expo. It is great to see all types of fitness enthusiasts together in one place. The first time I went to the expo I was blown away, it was everything I had expected and more. Whether you are a bodybuilder, gymnast, or even a ping pong player, the Expo has something for you; and free samples don?t hurt either!

[Beast2Be]

So is it due tonight at midnight?

[Beast2Be]

Here's mine fellas! Enjoy

[Rodzilla]

Originally Posted by Beast2Be

Here's mine fellas! Enjoy

nice! It's gonna be close, a few good entries here.

[bigcalves]

Who Will Win The 2008 Arnold Classic?



To most, The Arnold Classic is the second biggest contest in the world next to the Olympia. This is where most famous and up and coming bodybuilders try to prove they are a part of the elite pro circuit. The winner gets an automatic invitation to the Olympia. The contest in itself is not the only attraction, there are tons of other activities included. Columbus, Ohio is the center stage for the Arnold Classic, and with special recognition by Arnold, winning this contest is every bodybuilder's dream.


This year in particular is very exciting because there are a lot of talented pro's that will participate in this event. Victor Martinez is out of the contest, and with him being the favorite to win, that opens the door to others. Along the likes of Phil Heath it's sure to heat up. Recent pictures of Heath show a dramatic improvement by this pro. Even though new to the game, he is surely making his name known in the pro circuit. With a win or a very good placing he will continue on to the Olympia and surely cause some damage. Along with the top 1 guy that is thought to place good, there will be a lot of talent on that stage. Dexter, X Man Tony Freeman, Gustavo, Johnnie Jackson and Silvio Samuel will all be there along with more promising athletes. This contest will be very intense because all of the names mentioned above are known for coming in at good shape and conditioning, along with symmetry. This will be hard for the judges and promises to be exciting for all the fans on attendance.



* Last updated: February 6th, 2008.

2008 Arnold Classic Men's Competitors

Melvin Anthony
Gustavo Badell
Adorthus Cherry
Toney Freeman
Kai Greene
Deshaun Grimez
Phil Heath
David Henry
Dexter Jackson
Johnnie Jackson
Desmond Miller
Ronny Rockel
Silvio Samuel
Branch Warren




TOP TEN



1. Phil Heath has my odds of winning this show even though it is his fourth contest.. He is coming after taking a little bit time off, which certainly paid off when you look at recent picture of him on the internet boards. Ever since he became a pro he has dramatically changed his physique. He has added an incredible amount of size, while still maintaining a symmetrical and pleasant figure. In my opinion, he will come out as the winner from this show.

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/ABP...2003563156.jpg


2. Dexter Jackson is known for his lean and aesthetic figure. In my opinion if he comes in at top conditioning with the symmetry and aestheticism that he is known for he can easily take the second spot. The Arnold is a show where there's not a lot of mass monsters like Ronnie or Ruhl, and it really rewards guys like Dexter that have it all, besides the freakish size.

http://www.europasports.com/flextime...ws/jackson.jpg


3. Tony Freeman is a favorite in the pro ranks. He is very symmetrical and has a lot of size going for him. One thing about him is conditioning. Sometimes he comes a little watery and even though he is huge and very symmetrical that kind of takes away from the physique. If we see a dry and shredded Tony things might change, but judging on recent pictures and shows I would give the X Man third place.

http://www.alexander-schroll.com/spe...ny_freeman.jpg


4. Gustavo Badel is a promising bodybuilder that has been on the scene for a while. Most remembered by beating Ronnie Coleman in a posedown and getting third on the Olympia, he has it all. He has size, symmetry and conditioning. The problem is that most of the time it?s hard for him to bring all three at once. Usually he comes huge and symmetrical and watery, or shredded and conditioned but lower weight that takes away from his 5'8 frame.

http://www.super-nutrition.net/uploa...avo_badell.jpg


5. Silvio Samuel is one of my favorite recent up and coming bodybuilders. He is known for working hard and giving everything he has. With a package that includes huge arms and nice round cannonball delts he is hard to miss on stage. I believe that this guy has a ton of potential if he applies himself. From what I see he has, and it's a pleasure to follow his journey that's filled with dedication and hard work.

http://www.coloradoproshow.com/image...lFLEXcover.jpg


6. Kai Greene is making his first Arnold Classic appearance. I think if he comes conditioned well enough he can make the top 6 in this contest filled with big names. He is up and coming to the game and not that famous yet, it's up to him to show how good he really is.

http://www.graphicmuscle.net/photos/...UJGAKWOJNG.jpg


7. David Henry always comes in conditioned at top peak. I believe that his body is very pleasing and symmetrical. The only concern I have is that he will be way smaller than all the other competitors. And if all the others bring conditioning and symmetry he is going to be left back because of lack of size. A talented bodybuilder that works hard, and is sure to bring everything he's got.

http://www.teamvasquezbodybuilding.com/dhenry1.JPG


8. Melvin Anthony is another light weight bodybuilder with a lot of cuts and talent. I guess it will be a battle between him and David Henry since both of them have similar physiques. I guess that truth will show on who's got better conditioning on stage.

http://bp0.blogger.com/_g93bcGvgWBo/...y-we-t-002.jpg


9. Branch Warren is a favorite. Coming from Austin, Texas, the home of MetroFlex gym, this Texan is one big and strong guy. He is known for his intensity in the gym and for his conditioning. I believe that if he comes in conditioned he will easily make the top 10.

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/47/15...83dbde806a.jpg


10. Johnnie Jackson is the strongest pound for pound bodybuilder on the planet. His dense and developed muscle is a witness to that. He is massive and developed. The traps and back thickness on this guy is incredible. He has a problem coming in at top notch conditioning, but his size is something to respect.

http://www.efbigdog.com/gallery/data...m/MDP_6363.jpg



Bonus Question: Have you ever attended the Arnold Classic and 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?


I have attended the Arnold Classic in 2004. It was a great show filled with a lot of excitement. I remember I met a lot of pros and had pictures taken with most of them. I returned back home with a bag full of supplements, samples, t-shirt and other promotional and free materials. I had a great time at the show. One way to make the show better is more pro to fan interaction. That will be hard considering that there are a lot of people there, but the truth is that fans love the sport and the athletes. Most people would die at the opportunity to talk to a pro and ask a few questions. Besides that, the contest is ran great and seems to improve year from year as I've heard. None the less, a great show to attend!

Good Luck to all the competitors in this years Arnold Classic.

[bigcalves]

good luck to everyone!!

[Beast2Be]

Dang, nice post BigCalves!

[martinelli]

Only second to the Mr. Olympia in terms of its popularity and prestige - and bearing the name of the man whose charisma and cockiness did more for the bodybuilding subculture than anyone else - this year's presentation of the Arnold Classic may very well follow in the footsteps of the most recent Mr. Olympia in terms of another upset - and most every professional bodybuilder knows, due to the dynamics of the sport, how difficult it is to usurp the chalice.

However, Dexter Jackson's relinquishment of the crown to Victor Martinez in the 2007 Arnold Classic, coupled with the horrific fall of the longest dynasty in Olympia history, have served to foster a growing hope that politics is finally being thrown to the wayside. The implication: while history might point to the likelihood of Jackson reclaiming his throne, arguably the most prominent controversy surrounding the event this year is the ascension of Phillip Jerrod Heath.

The uneasiness between the two was alluded to in the last Arnold Classic, when one of the show's commentators stated, "There had been some subtle tension between Dexter Jackson, the veteran, and the youngster Phil Heath. Of course, I think Dexter felt like he was owed more respect than to be compared to a young guy like Phil."[1]

If the Mr. Olympia is known for awarding the most savage display of mass, then the Arnold Classic is its sister counterpart in that it is geared more towards conditioning. Both competitions, however, are critical of the balance that is struck among mass, shape, conditioning, and symmetry. But one must admit that there was certainly less quarrel concerning Victor's triumph at the Arnold Classic than Cutler's disputable second victory at the Olympia.

It is perhaps safe to say, then, that there will be little to no debate surrounding the future winner of the Arnold Classic. If the judges awarded conditioning back then, unless there is an entire judging criteria overhaul, they will continue to do so now. The difference in last year's decision was that Victor matched Jackson's peeled-to-the-bone conditioning and raised him even more with his overwhelming size. Had Victor stepped onto that stage with the mass that he had, but minus that muscle clarity, Jackson would have secured number three for himself.

With Victor out of the picture this year (presumably to put in his work for the coming Mr. Olympia and to make it crystal-clear to the judges that he has the better package, and not Cutler), the top candidates for the 2008 Arnold Classic are more than likely Dexter Jackson, Phil Heath, and Melvin Anthony. Both Silvio Samuel, one of the newer sensations, and Gustavo Badell are capable of creeping up on their competition, but that depends on how well they can accommodate the criteria of this particular contest.

In the past, Badell has been prone to coming onstage with a noticeably distended belly, an issue he and Chris Aceto set out to fix. Whether or not they were able to address this problem will be made apparent this year. Clearly, he is playing the size game so much in the hopes of one-upping Dexter that he is forgetting about cuts. Similarly, Johnnie Jackson is so fearful of not being able to preserve enough of his muscle that he often neglects his conditioning. Branch Warren also possesses freaky size comparable to the likes of Johnnie, but at the same competitions, he generally places higher than Jackson. If these three mass-minded monsters did their homework, they would most certainly see higher placings. Out of the three, Badell is the most likely to secure the highest placing in the top 10, and Warren will be able to eke out a comfortably high placing as well.

Conversely, Silvio Samuel possesses the conditioning that the aforementioned competitors lack, and his small frame and delicate muscle insertions give him the appearance of putting on more muscle than he truly has at a relatively low bodyweight. Yet although he has been making waves lately, the limiting factor, as is the case with David Henry, is Silvio's height. Both standing at a minuscule 5'5", neither of the men can skirt too far past his usual contest weight without sacrificing his conditioning. And ultimately, that means that both he and Henry cannot venture to add additional muscle to their frame. In essence, although conditioning is the name of the game as far as this showdown is concerned, if two competitors step onstage, both with equal conditioning, then, by default, the judges will resort to drawing comparisons between the two in terms of size - and this is something that Dexter has much of, on top of his symmetry, shape, and signature shredded physique. Let us assume that Silvio would be able to add size without penalty for this contest. Even then, with his tendency to enter into as many competitions as he can (he entered into a total of eight in 2007), he hardly has the time to improve in this department. Still, his razor-sharp conditioning will undoubtedly land him in the top 10. Henry, on the other hand, may find himself barely making the top 10 (somewhere below Johnnie Jackson, who generally places higher than him at the same competitions).

Last year's Mr. Olympia witnessed an astonishingly heavier Melvin Anthony, who was successfully able to pack on the pounds while sustaining spot-on definition. And with such a narrow waist to accentuate his X-taper, he's got his symmetry and shape in the bag. Melvin's Achilles' heel lies in his ability, or lack thereof, to match Dexter's eye-opening striations and muscle separation. There's no doubt about it: Melvin is shredded, but Dexter is moreso. In particular, he would do well to cut out the thin layer of water often masking his muscle. As an aside, dropping the water may also be an obstacle for Toney Freeman, who, with such an enormous frame, must also work harder to achieve the same chilling muscularity that Dexter can easily nail. As with most taller bodybuilders, including Quincy Taylor and now-retired Gunter Schlierkamp, it is more difficult to fill out one's frame and pull off the illusion of having more muscle. Oftentimes, being on the other end of the height spectrum opposite shorter bodybuilders such as Silvio and David, it is just as difficult to get noticed by the judges, but not impossible. However, Freeman will more than likely find a suitable finish within the lower end of the top 10.

To put it bluntly, Adorthus Cherry, Kai Greene, DeShaun Grimez, Desmond Miller, and Ronny Rockel are non-factors in this event, although Cherry, Grimez, and Miller still have plenty of time to shine. The attention is now turned to the illustrious Phil Heath. If any bodybuilder's fans have made more commotion than the rest, it's Phil Heath's. The stir was threatening enough to provoke a response from the other side. As Bob Chicherillo put it, "I think Dexter the Veteran's out there and he's saying, 'Look here, man. You're good, kid, but you've got a little ways to go to catch me.' "[2]

Upon being asked at the Olympia press conference how he felt about Heath, who was absent from the most recent Mr. Olympia, Jackson was said to have been "quick to snap at Phil and say, 'You know, it'd be nice if he were on stage with us at the Olympia to settle it once and for all.' "[3]

With all the controversy being generated about these two individuals, can we predict a surefire victory by either competitor over the other? Not this time. Heath is arguably the closest to Jackson in terms of conditioning without lacking much in the way of size. It is true that Jackson was able to put on more muscle at this past Mr. Olympia. However, it is interesting to note that despite the fact that his fifth place finish at the 2007 Arnold Classic qualified him for the Olympia, Heath opted to sit out, explaining that he wanted to put on more mass, but to go about it in a slow and safe manner. This was the same path Melvin Anthony chose to walk when he sat out for the 2007 Arnold Classic in order to put on more mass for the subsequent Mr. Olympia. Both decisions were a result of clear thinking. Indeed, many would-be legends have fallen prey to their own hype, forcing them into obscurity. Clearly, Phil does not intend to become another casualty. One can only wait to see if "The Gift" will be able to successfully execute his plan.

But even if Phil manages to come in heavier, will he be able to retain the lines he so needs in order to best an angry Dexter? After weighing the possibilities, Dexter may just be able to mete out one more win before Mr. Heath catches up. After all, Ronnie was able to hold off Cutler in the past. Why not Dexter?

The following is the projection of the top 10 in the 2008 Arnold Classic.

1.) Dexter "The Blade" Jackson
2.) Phil "The Gift" Heath
3.) "Marvelous" Melvin Anthony
4.) Gustavo "The Freakin' Rican" Badell
5.) Silvio Samuel
6.) Toney "The X-Man" Freeman
7.) Branch "Quadrasaurus" Warren
8.) Johnnie Jackson
9.) David Henry
10.) Desmond Miller

A quick recap and brief description for why the following are the probable placings:

1.) Dexter "The Blade" Jackson
Aside from his superior and consistent conditioning, Jackson was amazingly able to add in a bit more mass, most notably in his arms. Such an edge will go far in creating more distance between himself and the rest of the competition.
2.) Phil "The Gift" Heath
Let's hope that the time strategically taken off to improve himself in the size department will prove fruitful to Heath. The single lingering question is if Heath will come in bigger, but still shredded enough to enable him to stand up to the likes of Dexter.
3.) "Marvelous" Melvin Anthony
Conditioning, not size, is his foible. Losing the subcutaneous water is Melvin's main priority, which is the same predicament Phil may find himself in as he puts on the additional muscle.
4.) Gustavo "The Freakin' Rican" Badell
As with Melvin, size surely is not Badell's problem. The protruding stomach has to be dealt with, or he will not survive in this showdown. This is a whole different ball game than the Olympia, and Badell must come to terms with that.
5.) Silvio Samuel
Size, not conditioning, is this man's weakness. He boasts some of the fullest muscle bellies ever seen on a bodybuilder, but his height is his obstacle. The vast number of contests he enters isn't helping his case, either.
6.) Toney "The X-Man" Freeman
He certainly made a statement at the 2007 Ironman and Sacramento Pro Invitational. His height and conditioning are his limiting factors, and his mass does not strike awe into the audience the way that certain other bodybuilders can. Filling out with respect to his towering frame is the issue here.
7.) Branch "Quadrasaurus" Warren
He's as dense and thick as you can get (along with Johnnie), but it's his back that needs work. Specifically, his lower lumbar area could be more defined. He wasn't genetically gifted with biceps peak, but he's working with what he's got. His tree-trunk legs, on the other hand, are something to behold.
8.) Johnnie Jackson
Conditioning - that sums it up. Johnnie is too afraid of looking too small onstage. When would that ever cross anyone's minds? The main problem with Johnnie is his innate stubbornness to learn his lesson the first time. He's been having problems with coming in with that muscle clarity for a long time now. He has consistently placed lower than Branch Warren at the same competitions.
9.) David Henry
David is as ripped as you can get and as enormous as anyone can get at such a diminutive stature. Unfortunately, as with Silvio, this is David's weak point. He has consistently placed lower than Johnnie Jackson at the same competitions.
10.) Desmond Miller
This guy's got just a tad bit more experience than the other more recent NPC winners (Adorthus Cherry and DeShaun Grimez). He will see his day.

Sources:
1,2,3: http://youtube.com/watch?v=e6xkN8iWPWU

[littleman44]

Originally Posted by martinelli

Only second to the Mr. Olympia in terms of its popularity and prestige - and bearing the name of the man whose charisma and cockiness did more for the bodybuilding subculture than anyone else - this year's presentation of the Arnold Classic may very well follow in the footsteps of the most recent Mr. Olympia in terms of another upset - and most every professional bodybuilder knows, due to the dynamics of the sport, how difficult it is to usurp the chalice.

However, Dexter Jackson's relinquishment of the crown to Victor Martinez in the 2007 Arnold Classic, coupled with the horrific fall of the longest dynasty in Olympia history, have served to foster a growing hope that politics is finally being thrown to the wayside. The implication: while history might point to the likelihood of Jackson reclaiming his throne, arguably the most prominent controversy surrounding the event this year is the ascension of Phillip Jerrod Heath.



If the Mr. Olympia is known for awarding the most savage display of mass, then the Arnold Classic is its sister counterpart in that it is geared more towards conditioning. Both competitions, however, are critical of the balance that is struck among mass, shape, conditioning, and symmetry. But one must admit that there was certainly less quarrel concerning Victor's triumph at the Arnold Classic than Cutler's disputable second victory at the Olympia.

It is perhaps safe to say, then, that there will be little to no debate surrounding the future winner of the Arnold Classic. If the judges awarded conditioning back then, unless there is an entire judging criteria overhaul, they will continue to do so now. The difference in last year's decision was that Victor matched Jackson's peeled-to-the-bone conditioning and raised him even more with his overwhelming size. Had Victor stepped onto that stage with the mass that he had, but minus that muscle clarity, Jackson would have secured number three for himself.

With Victor out of the picture this year (presumably to put in his work for the coming Mr. Olympia and to make it crystal-clear to the judges that he has the better package, and not Cutler), the top candidates for the 2008 Arnold Classic are more than likely Dexter Jackson, Phil Heath, and Melvin Anthony. Both Silvio Samuel, one of the newer sensations, and Gustavo Badell are capable of creeping up on their competition, but that depends on how well they can accommodate the criteria of this particular contest.

In the past, Badell has been prone to coming onstage with a noticeably distended belly, an issue he and Chris Aceto set out to fix. Whether or not they were able to address this problem will be made apparent this year. Clearly, he is playing the size game so much in the hopes of one-upping Dexter that he is forgetting about cuts. Similarly, Johnnie Jackson is so fearful of not being able to preserve enough of his muscle that he often neglects his conditioning. Branch Warren also possesses freaky size comparable to the likes of Johnnie, but at the same competitions, he generally places higher than Jackson. If these three mass-minded monsters did their homework, they would most certainly see higher placings. Out of the three, Badell is the most likely to secure the highest placing in the top 10, and Warren will be able to eke out a comfortably high placing as well.

Conversely, Silvio Samuel possesses the conditioning that the aforementioned competitors lack, and his small frame and delicate muscle insertions give him the appearance of putting on more muscle than he truly has at a relatively low bodyweight. Yet although he has been making waves lately, the limiting factor, as is the case with David Henry, is Silvio's height. Both standing at a minuscule 5'5", neither of the men can skirt too far past his usual contest weight without sacrificing his conditioning. And ultimately, that means that both he and Henry cannot venture to add additional muscle to their frame. In essence, although conditioning is the name of the game as far as this showdown is concerned, if two competitors step onstage, both with equal conditioning, then, by default, the judges will resort to drawing comparisons between the two in terms of size - and this is something that Dexter has much of, on top of his symmetry, shape, and signature shredded physique. Let us assume that Silvio would be able to add size without penalty for this contest. Even then, with his tendency to enter into as many competitions as he can (he entered into a total of eight in 2007), he hardly has the time to improve in this department. Still, his razor-sharp conditioning will undoubtedly land him in the top 10. Henry, on the other hand, may find himself barely making the top 10 (somewhere below Johnnie Jackson, who generally places higher than him at the same competitions).

Last year's Mr. Olympia witnessed an astonishingly heavier Melvin Anthony, who was successfully able to pack on the pounds while sustaining spot-on definition. And with such a narrow waist to accentuate his X-taper, he's got his symmetry and shape in the bag. Melvin's Achilles' heel lies in his ability, or lack thereof, to match Dexter's eye-opening striations and muscle separation. There's no doubt about it: Melvin is shredded, but Dexter is moreso. In particular, he would do well to cut out the thin layer of water often masking his muscle. As an aside, dropping the water may also be an obstacle for Toney Freeman, who, with such an enormous frame, must also work harder to achieve the same chilling muscularity that Dexter can easily nail. As with most taller bodybuilders, including Quincy Taylor and now-retired Gunter Schlierkamp, it is more difficult to fill out one's frame and pull off the illusion of having more muscle. Oftentimes, being on the other end of the height spectrum opposite shorter bodybuilders such as Silvio and David, it is just as difficult to get noticed by the judges, but not impossible. However, Freeman will more than likely find a suitable finish within the lower end of the top 10.

To put it bluntly, Adorthus Cherry, Kai Greene, DeShaun Grimez, Desmond Miller, and Ronny Rockel are non-factors in this event, although Cherry, Grimez, and Miller still have plenty of time to shine. The attention is now turned to the illustrious Phil Heath. If any bodybuilder's fans have made more commotion than the rest, it's Phil Heath's. The stir was threatening enough to provoke a response from the other side. As Bob Chicherillo put it, "I think Dexter the Veteran's out there and he's saying, 'Look here, man. You're good, kid, but you've got a little ways to go to catch me.' "[2]

Upon being asked at the Olympia press conference how he felt about Heath, who was absent from the most recent Mr. Olympia, Jackson was said to have been "quick to snap at Phil and say, 'You know, it'd be nice if he were on stage with us at the Olympia to settle it once and for all.' "[3]

With all the controversy being generated about these two individuals, can we predict a surefire victory by either competitor over the other? Not this time. Heath is arguably the closest to Jackson in terms of conditioning without lacking much in the way of size. It is true that Jackson was able to put on more muscle at this past Mr. Olympia. However, it is interesting to note that despite the fact that his fifth place finish at the 2007 Arnold Classic qualified him for the Olympia, Heath opted to sit out, explaining that he wanted to put on more mass, but to go about it in a slow and safe manner. This was the same path Melvin Anthony chose to walk when he sat out for the 2007 Arnold Classic in order to put on more mass for the subsequent Mr. Olympia. Both decisions were a result of clear thinking. Indeed, many would-be legends have fallen prey to their own hype, forcing them into obscurity. Clearly, Phil does not intend to become another casualty. One can only wait to see if "The Gift" will be able to successfully execute his plan.

But even if Phil manages to come in heavier, will he be able to retain the lines he so needs in order to best an angry Dexter? After weighing the possibilities, Dexter may just be able to mete out one more win before Mr. Heath catches up. After all, Ronnie was able to hold off Cutler in the past. Why not Dexter?

The following is the projection of the top 10 in the 2008 Arnold Classic.

1.) Dexter "The Blade" Jackson
2.) Phil "The Gift" Heath
3.) "Marvelous" Melvin Anthony
4.) Gustavo "The Freakin' Rican" Badell
5.) Silvio Samuel
6.) Toney "The X-Man" Freeman
7.) Branch "Quadrasaurus" Warren
8.) Johnnie Jackson
9.) David Henry
10.) Desmond Miller

A quick recap and brief description for why the following are the probable placings:

1.) Dexter "The Blade" Jackson
Aside from his superior and consistent conditioning, Jackson was amazingly able to add in a bit more mass, most notably in his arms. Such an edge will go far in creating more distance between himself and the rest of the competition.
2.) Phil "The Gift" Heath
Let's hope that the time strategically taken off to improve himself in the size department will prove fruitful to Heath. The single lingering question is if Heath will come in bigger, but still shredded enough to enable him to stand up to the likes of Dexter.
3.) "Marvelous" Melvin Anthony
Conditioning, not size, is his foible. Losing the subcutaneous water is Melvin's main priority, which is the same predicament Phil may find himself in as he puts on the additional muscle.
4.) Gustavo "The Freakin' Rican" Badell
As with Melvin, size surely is not Badell's problem. The protruding stomach has to be dealt with, or he will not survive in this showdown. This is a whole different ball game than the Olympia, and Badell must come to terms with that.
5.) Silvio Samuel
Size, not conditioning, is this man's weakness. He boasts some of the fullest muscle bellies ever seen on a bodybuilder, but his height is his obstacle. The vast number of contests he enters isn't helping his case, either.
6.) Toney "The X-Man" Freeman
He certainly made a statement at the 2007 Ironman and Sacramento Pro Invitational. His height and conditioning are his limiting factors, and his mass does not strike awe into the audience the way that certain other bodybuilders can. Filling out with respect to his towering frame is the issue here.
7.) Branch "Quadrasaurus" Warren
He's as dense and thick as you can get (along with Johnnie), but it's his back that needs work. Specifically, his lower lumbar area could be more defined. He wasn't genetically gifted with biceps peak, but he's working with what he's got. His tree-trunk legs, on the other hand, are something to behold.
8.) Johnnie Jackson
Conditioning - that sums it up. Johnnie is too afraid of looking too small onstage. When would that ever cross anyone's minds? The main problem with Johnnie is his innate stubbornness to learn his lesson the first time. He's been having problems with coming in with that muscle clarity for a long time now. He has consistently placed lower than Branch Warren at the same competitions.
9.) David Henry
David is as ripped as you can get and as enormous as anyone can get at such a diminutive stature. Unfortunately, as with Silvio, this is David's weak point. He has consistently placed lower than Johnnie Jackson at the same competitions.
10.) Desmond Miller
This guy's got just a tad bit more experience than the other more recent NPC winners (Adorthus Cherry and DeShaun Grimez). He will see his day.

Sources:
1,2,3: http://youtube.com/watch?v=e6xkN8iWPWU

the top two will most likely be fought out between dexter and phil , but dont count out silvo he has a wicked physique , and really who knows with judging these days its not always the best man that wins , we just have to look at last years Olympia for that .

[bigcalves]

i'm really excited about it.
Hey Will, is bb.com going to have a live streaming feed of the Arnold??

[Rodzilla]

Originally Posted by bigcalves

i'm really excited about it.
Hey Will, is bb.com going to have a live streaming feed of the Arnold??

yes

[bigcalves]

awesome!!!!!!!!!!!