Four-Time Mr. Olympia Will Not Compete in 2012: Fan Reaction

Jay Cutler IFBB PRO

By D. Benjamin Satkowiak | Yahoo! Contributor Network – Mon, Aug 27, 2012 10:04 AM EDT

In the sport of professional bodybuilding, there are few men who can truly be said to have represented the sport in a way that has both invigorated the masses and helped launch the sport further into the mainstream sporting world. While Arnold Schwarzenegger, has led as the face of modern bodybuilding, the name Jay Cutler is now synonymous with his, in the way they have promoted and excelled in the most individualized of all sports.

Both Arnold and Jay have excelled in bodybuilding competition. Both men have worn the title of Mr. Olympia, on multiple occasions. Both have also launched successful side careers and have the looks, charisma and "it-factor" to keep themselves in the spotlight long after their competition days are in the rearview. Unfortunately for bodybuilding fans, the later may very well be on its way to fruition, as Cutler announced that he will be skipping the 2012 Mr. Olympia competition.

A four-time winner of the elite IFBB event, Cutler was unable to hold on to his crown against friend and training partner Phil Heath, in last year's competition. After a bicep injury prompted surgery in February, many felt Jay's time in the bodybuilding spotlight could be drawing to a close. Although he was adamant that it would not be the end, his latest admission leaves much to speculation.

In a statement relayed through Muscular Development, Cutler cited time and business constraints as culprits in failing to allow him a reasonable chance at recapturing the crown at this year's event. Though he did make it clear that his intentions are to return in 2013 to make another run, the bodybuilding world was quickly abuzz that this may very well seal the lid on his incredible career as a competitive athlete.

Cutler reached stardom as the man who did the impossible - dethroning the sport's king, Ronnie Coleman. Since that phenomenal moment, he has represented the sport with the attitude, grace and respect of a true champion and ambassador of the sport. He has taken his craft across the world, in pursuit of furthering the reach of the bodybuilding lifestyle. If this is, in fact, the end of one of the sport's most successful careers, competitors will rejoice and fans will, no doubt, revel in the knowledge that they had the opportunity to witness one of the truly great athletes of our time. That is, however, IF this is truly the end…

The author, D. Benjamin Satkowiak, is a successful entrepreneur and published, freelance author, who has tailored works on various sports, health and fitness topics. He currently serves as a Yahoo! Contributor Network "Featured Contributor" and writes on the Detroit Tigers, Detroit Lions, Great Lakes Loons and Notre Dame football.

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