Mr. Olympia is one of the most prestigious events in the realm of sports. Ever since its introduction in 1965, the annual event has witnessed veterans from different sports participating in some or the other capacity. Many professional wrestlers have also been bodybuilders.
Let's take a look at WWE stars who have been witnessed at Mr. Olympia events in the past.
WWE stars who have been to Mr. Olympia
Triple H - Mr. Olympia 2004
Mr. Olympia 2004 saw bodybuilding legend Ronnie Coleman win his seventh consecutive title against rival Jay Cutler. WWE legend Triple H commentated at the event. Triple H interviewed Ronnie Coleman, Jay Cutler, and others backstage as well. Despite having no background in the sport of competitive bodybuilding, Triple H somehow managed to dwarf Ronnie Coleman and Jay Cutler with his amazing height.
Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson - 2016 Mr. Olympia
Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson has ventured into several fields over the years. Having a successful career as a WWE wrestler as well as a Hollywood actor, Dwayne Johnson is also good friends with a lot of bodybuilders, including Arnold Schwarzenegger and Phil Heath.
His fans have been wanting to see him on a bodybuilding stage for years now. Unfortunately, the closest he came to competitive bodybuilding was at Mr. Olympia 2016 when he hosted the event. During his speech, The Rock revealed the reason why he started working out. He said (via The Rock's YouTube channel):
"I first picked up a weight when I was 14 years old, because all the men who I looked up to in life, who I aspired to be, were all men who went to the gym, picked up iron, and took their business with their own two hands. And they made something of themselves." (0:40)
Batista - Honorary Ambassador of 2023 Mr. Olympia
Long before stepping into the WWE ring, Batista lived the life of a bodybuilder. Having witnessed the Mr. Olympia events multiple times in the past, it was in 2023 when Batista was made the Honorary Ambassador of the show. On this, Batista said (via mrolympia.com):
“Bodybuilding changed the direction of my life.”
Dan Solomon said in 2023:
"Dave is the embodiment of what bodybuilding is all about. He’s used the gym to build the habits needed to achieve remarkable success in everything he does. Dave is the real deal. His authenticity is why we selected him. He has inspired millions and we’re proud to welcome him to this year’s Olympia as our honored guest."
Which Mr. Olympia appearance out of these was your favorite? Let us know in the comments.