Jay Cutler Calls 1993 Flex Wheeler the Most Perfect Physique Ever, While Victor Martinez Says His Symmetry Would Still Dominate Modern Bodybuilding
The debate over the greatest physique in bodybuilding history is one that never seems to fade. While fans often point to names like Ronnie Coleman, Arnold Schwarzenegger, or Phil Heath, four-time Mr. Olympia Jay Cutler recently made his pick crystal clear – saying the 1993 version of Flex Wheeler was the greatest physique ever seen on a bodybuilding stage. The comment reignited a long-running discussion among fans about whether Wheeler’s legendary combination of shape, symmetry, proportions, and aesthetics could stand up against today’s larger and more mass-focused competitors.
The sentiment is one that Generation Iron’s own Victor Martinez has echoed before. During a previous episode of the Generation Iron Podcast, Martinez went even further, arguing that prime Flex Wheeler would not only be competitive today but could potentially win the Mr. Olympia.
Jay Cutler: “That Is the Most Perfect Physique Ever”
During the discussion, Cutler was asked what he believed was the greatest bodybuilding physique of all time. His answer came immediately.
“Flex Wheeler.”
When the conversation shifted specifically to Wheeler’s 1993 season, Cutler doubled down on his stance.
“That twisting back shot. That is the most perfect, I think, physique ever to walk.”
The praise is notable considering Cutler’s own legendary status in the sport. As a four-time Olympia champion who competed against some of the biggest names in bodybuilding history, Cutler has seen nearly every era firsthand.
He also noted that Wheeler’s physique may have been even more appreciated had social media existed during that time.
“That ’93 season. I wish social media existed then because that physique… Has there been a body like that since then?”
For many longtime bodybuilding fans, Wheeler’s 1993 campaign represented the ideal blend of size and aesthetics before the mass monsters took over.
Victor Martinez Says Flex Wheeler Could Win the Olympia Today
While Cutler focused on Wheeler’s historical greatness, Martinez previously analyzed how the bodybuilding icon would stack up against today’s competitors.
During a Generation Iron Podcast discussion, Martinez argued that Wheeler’s strengths would translate across eras.
According to Martinez, Wheeler’s greatest weapon was his extraordinary symmetry and structure, qualities that remain heavily rewarded in bodybuilding judging.
Martinez suggested that many of today’s athletes prioritize sheer size, while Wheeler possessed a level of balance and flow that is rarely seen. He pointed to the success of late Olympia champion Shawn Rhoden as proof that aesthetics and symmetry can still overcome larger physiques on bodybuilding’s biggest stage.
Victor also highlighted Wheeler’s unique muscle bellies and frame, explaining that he often appeared bigger than he actually was because of how perfectly his physique flowed together. In Martinez’s view, Wheeler’s presentation, shape, and visual impact would allow him to stand toe-to-toe with the current generation.
Why 1993 Flex Wheeler Remains the Gold Standard
Known as the “Sultan of Symmetry,” Wheeler built a reputation as one of the most aesthetically gifted bodybuilders to ever compete. His small waist, sweeping quads, round muscle bellies, and flawless proportions created a look that many still consider unmatched.
Although Wheeler never captured a Mr. Olympia title, he won multiple Arnold Classic championships and frequently pushed the best competitors in the world. His 1993 GOAT run is still a major influence today, as fans debate whether bodybuilding has drifted too far toward mass at the expense of aesthetics.
The fact that both Cutler and Martinez – two athletes who competed at the highest levels of the sport – continue to hold Wheeler in such high regard speaks volumes about his legacy.
Featured image via YouTube @cutlercast, and Instagram @officialflexwheeler
