Today, we’re introducing a brand-new segment called Bodybuilding News, where we’ll be covering the most exciting and important stories from the world of bodybuilding. For our first article we have a major update that has set the bodybuilding on fire.
Legendary bodybuilder Lee Priest recently announced on his Instagram account that, after 20 long years of being away from the IFBB (International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness), he has officially renewed his IFBB Pro card. This announcement is significant not just because of the long absence but also due to the extraordinary circumstances surrounding Lee Priest’s career.
For those unfamiliar with his story, Lee Priest is one of the very few bodybuilders in history to receive a lifetime ban from the IFBB, a decision that was highly controversial at the time. However, in a stunning turn of events, the IFBB appears to have lifted the ban, making Lee Priest the first bodybuilder to receive such a pardon. This unexpected news has sparked an enormous reaction across social media platforms, as fans, critics, and experts discuss the implications of this decision.
Lee Priest is widely regarded as one of the greatest icons of the golden era of bodybuilding, known for his incredible symmetry, proportions, and “unique” personality.
Despite stepping away from competitive bodybuilding after his last show in 2013, Priest never stopped training. At 52 years old, he remains in a really hoodshape, showcasing a physique that rivals many younger athletes. It’s also worth noting that Lee Priest is often hailed as having some of the best genetics in the history of the sport, which has only added to his legendary status.
Given his age and the timing of this announcement, many in the bodybuilding community are speculating that Lee Priest might be preparing to compete in the Masters Mr. Olympia, a division specifically designed for legends of the sport over 40 who want to make one last appearance on the competitive stage. The Masters Olympia was revived in 2023 after an 11-year hiatus, and it has already proven to be a massive draw for fans of classic bodybuilding. Adding fuel to the speculation, fans noticed that Priest reacted with a heart emoji to a comment suggesting he would compete in the Masters Olympia, leading many to believe that this is indeed his plan.
If Lee Priest does compete in the Masters Olympia, it would be a monumental moment for the sport. The current landscape of professional bodybuilding has been criticized for lacking the kind of star power it once had, especially following the retirement of legends like Chris Bumstead (Classic Physique), Phil Heath, and Flex Lewis. The addition of a high-profile figure like Lee Priest could not only inject excitement into the sport but also attract significant attention from fans, sponsors, and media alike.
Furthermore, the financial incentives for competing are substantial. The Masters Mr. Olympia offers prize money in the range of several hundred thousand dollars, which could be a motivating factor for someone like Priest, who has repeatedly expressed his passion for the sport. While nothing has been officially confirmed, the excitement and anticipation surrounding his potential return to the stage are undeniable.
In conclusion, Lee Priest’s return to the IFBB is not just a personal milestone for the athlete himself but also a historic moment for the sport of bodybuilding. Whether or not he competes in the Masters Olympia, his reappearance in the spotlight has already reignited the enthusiasm of fans who remember the golden age of bodybuilding. If he does choose to step on stage again, it will undoubtedly be one of the most talked-about comebacks in bodybuilding history.