Martin Fitzwater believes Keone Pearson’ physique is already going down as one of the best ever.
Martin Fitzwater and Keone Pearson have a history of training together as they were climbing through the bodybuilding ranks. Now, both are viewed as part of the young future in the sport. During a recent workout, Fitzwater had high praise for Pearson following his run of two consecutive Olympia title.
The duo crushed a leg workout recently and the fourth-place Olympia finisher made a statement putting Pearson at the top of Men’s 212.
“Realistically bro, you’re probably already the greatest 212 of all-time.”
[RELATED: Keone Pearson Calls For Larger Prize In 212]
Pearson has emerged as a star in bodybuilding in a short amount of time. His pro career, beginning in 2016, started in Classic Physique before making the move to 212. He spent a few years in the division before going head-to-head and defeating Shaun Clarida. Pearson is now the new face of the 212 division after winning back-to-back Olympia titles.
Pearson is still five victories off Flex Lewis, who won seven consecutive titles from 2012-18. Fitzwater believes Pearson’s physique is freakish due to the fact that he still has 10-12 pounds to work with.
“Nothing against Flex, obviously he has more titles than you but just physique wise, you’ve already put something up there that’s competitive with what he had. And the few things that you’re lacking, bro he was sucking down 20 pounds to make it into 212. You probably have 10 pounds to work with. It’s just different.”
As of now, there are no plans for Pearson to move to Men’s Open but this is always the next conversation had with stars in 212.
Keone Pearson Remains Committed To Men’s 212
Will Keone Pearson be the next in line to make the jump from 212 to Men’s Open?
Derek Lunsford won his first 212 Olympia title in 2021 before making the big jump to Men’s Open. Two years later, Lunsford became the first bodybuilder to win an Olympia title in two divisions, being crowned the 2023 Mr. Olympia. If Pearson is next in line, it will not be soon as he claims to have work to do before making the jump.
“I’m trying to focus on that and try to max out, not trying to go straight to the Open division. I still have a lot of improvements to make before I battle with you guys. When I get up there, I’ll be ready.”
Fitzwater, who finished fourth at the Olympia in October, believes Pearson can compete in Open but also has another gear in 212 once he puts on more weight.
“When you are actually 212 and have to suck down to get in there, no one might ever see another 212 like that again. You can compete with us Open guys but you can create a legacy.”
Keone Pearson is coming off two consecutive Olympia titles and is looking to three-peat here in 2025. That will be his main focus as he will not be competing otherwise.
“Just Olympia this year. I have so much travel going on this year. I won’t really have time to compete. I want to focus on creating distance in 212.”
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