Joseph Baena's debut has raised an important question: Is it difficult being Arnold Schwarzenegger's son? According to Kai Greene, yes.

In one of the recent episodes of the Kai Greene Effect, Kai Greene and Vlad Yudin were seen analyzing Joseph Baena's recent wins and his future career trajectory. The three-time Arnold Classic winner expressed concern regarding the newcomer's trajectory.

"It must be so difficult and challenging being the son of Schwarzenegger."

Greene explained that Schwarzenegger’s impact on the bodybuilding world is unparalleled, and it even extends into film and media. Throughout his career, the legendary bodybuilder has been a reference point for physiques and character archetypes, earning nicknames like the Austrian Oak.

As a result, Baena, who is part of Arnold Schwarzenegger's legacy, may face scrutiny and constant comparison with his dad while he tries to create his own identity. Although Greene gave credit to Baena for choosing this path despite the weight of his father's legacy.

Schwarzenegger's son recently made his bodybuilding debut, winning not one but two competitions. In his debut competition at the NPC Natural Colorado Show, he won three gold medals and a silver medal. Two weeks later, he won the INBA Iron Gladiator championship. His second win earned him his pro card.

"He's a pro now, technically speaking, so he won the pro card. So, it's going to be interesting to see what's next, you know. Interesting that he would make these choices."

What's noteworthy is Baena's decision to compete in the Natural division of bodybuilding. Kai Greene sees it as an advantage for Joe Baena, where the focus lies on his training, discipline, and genetics.

Victor Martinez's take on Joe Baena's debut

Kai Greene isn't the only one who feels that being Arnie's son is going to be difficult for Joseph Baena. The young bodybuilder managed to grab the attention of many industry experts, including veteran bodybuilder Victor Martinez. In a recent episode of the Generation Iron podcast, Martinez gave his two cents on Baena's debut.

On one hand, he commended Baena for choosing the Natural division, as he believes that the division 'creates a better base.' But on the other hand, he also addressed the implications of being Arnold Schwarzenegger’s son.

"You've got to remember he's Arnold's son. So that's a big shadow. And one of the articles I read, he said, 'Oh, I don't want to be in the shadow of my dad.' I was like, well, that's a kind of too big a shadow to avoid. It's next to impossible, but I know what he means. And I think it's honorable for him to actually say that."

For more such information, follow Bodybuilding Bros.

Written by

Ruwa Javed

Edited by

Ashvinkumar Patil