When Joe Weider launched the Mr Olympia contest in 1965, he created a platform for the world’s most gifted physiques. For decades, Weider had been the driving force behind the sport’s evolution, and Mr Olympia became the stage where champions were forged. What started as a small event designed to give elite bodybuilders a place to continue competing soon exploded into the pinnacle of the entire fitness industry, elevating the sport to global recognition and inspiring generations of athletes.

But while many champions rose over the years, some made an impact the moment they arrived.  Let’s revisit the five greatest Olympia debuts that changed bodybuilding history forever.

1. Arnold Schwarzenegger – 1969 Olympia Debut

Arnold stepped on the Olympia stage for the first time in 1969 in New York, just 22 years old and already carrying a huge frame. He finished second to Sergio Oliva, but the experience taught him how far he could push himself. He returned with more discipline and went on to win seven Olympia titles.

2. Dorian Yates – 1991 Olympia Debut

Dorian walked into the 1991 Olympia in Orlando with a physique unlike anything the sport had seen, dense, grainy, and brutally strong. He placed second to Lee Haney, but his training style showed why he belonged at the top. He later won six straight Olympia titles with his intense HIT system. 

3. Kevin Levrone – 1992 Olympia Debut

Levrone made his Olympia debut in 1992, just months after earning his pro card, landing an impressive second place. He shocked fans with his fast rise, and over the years, he collected numerous pro wins and remained a constant threat on stage. His go-to lift was the incline barbell press, which builds upper-chest strength and helps create width and shape across the shoulders. 

4. Flex Wheeler – 1993 Olympia Debut

Flex stepped onto the Olympia stage in 1993 in Atlanta, finishing second to Dorian Yates, but many still call it one of the best debuts ever. His shape and balance were rare, and he stayed a top contender for years, eventually becoming a multi-time Arnold Classic champion.

5. Derek Lunsford – 2022 Olympia Debut

Lunsford made history at the 2022 Mr Olympia in Las Vegas, finishing second in his first Open appearance after moving up from 212. His conditioning, balance, and stage confidence surprised everyone, setting up his future win in 2023. Derek’s training often features seated rows, which target the mid-back and improve posture and pulling strength. 

Written by

Amanjeet Singh

Edited by

Oajaswini Prabhu