The 2009 Mr. Olympia on September 25-26 is shaping up to be the most competitive in history. Loaded with star power that hasn’t been seen since the explosion of talent that populated the lineups of the nineties and into the new millennium, it sparks the timeless debate: Who was better, the champions of yesterday or the champions of today? To answer that, we’ve pitted the class of ’09 against legendary names from the past, each in a one on one battle to determine once and for all, who will reign supreme. The seventh in our Olympia Clash of the Titans series features reigning Mr. Olympia Dexter Jackson facing Shawn Ray.
SCOUTING REPORT: JACKSON Jackson is the smallest man to wear the Olympia crown since Samir Bannout was bodybuilding’s king back in 1983. Nevertheless, it’s a testament to the excellence of his physique that Jackson was able to buck a 24-year trend. From neck to knee “The Blade” displays no weaknesses, and while his calves aren’t quite up to the standards of the rest of his body, they do little to detract from his overall impressiveness.
SCOUTING REPORT: RAY Shawn Ray is roundly considered one of the most proportioned bodybuilders in the sport’s history. Although he never won an Olympia title, Ray made the top six an unprecedented 12 times, taking 2nd twice and 3rd three times. Although at just 205 pounds Ray couldn’t dominate with size, he did routinely beat guys 50-70 pounds heavier with a near-perfect combination of mass, shape, proportion and definition.
FRONT VIEW: This is almost too close to call. Jackson is crisper and has slightly fuller muscles. Ray’s almost concave midsection and proportioned calves show a more complete look. Jackson has the wider shoulder structure.
SIDE VIEW: Again, a very close call. Jackson’s lagging calves are less noticeable here, evening things out. Ray’s stellar serratus are on full display.
REAR VIEW: Jackson’s superior width gives pause, although Ray accounts well of himself in the rear double biceps shot, which highlights his great detail.
THE WINNER: JACKSON By an eyelash. Even despite his calf deficit, Jackson’s superior width and ultra-conditioning give him the edge. Were Ray to have been pressed to achieve the dryness that’s de rigeur of Olympia competitors circa 2009 the outcome could be different.
