Mike Katz gives a powerful and tender speech after receiving the 2025 Arnold Classic Lifetime Achievement Award
In a heartfelt ceremony at the 2025 Arnold Classic, bodybuilding legend Mike Katz was honored with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award. Presented by Arnold Schwarzenegger himself, the accolade celebrated Katz’s enduring contributions to the sport and his remarkable journey both on and off the stage.
[MORE: Check out our full play-by-play coverage of the 2025 Arnold Classic]
A Bond Forged in Iron
Arnold Schwarzenegger, reflecting on their enduring friendship, recounted their early days together:
“I met Mike when I came to America. We became friends quickly. We became training partners. I quickly became aware that he was not only a hard worker but a really great human being.”
Schwarzenegger also shared a lighthearted memory that underscored Katz’s legendary physique:
“Franco [Columbu] and I were so impressed by Mike’s chest that we didn’t think it was even humanly possible to achieve the kind of chest he had. So, we concocted a plan to get Mike drunk so he would fall asleep. We wanted to see if his chest would still ‘pop out’ while he was asleep. And to our surprise, it certainly still did stick out. That’s how impressive his chest size was.”
Katz’s Emotional Acceptance
Taking the stage to a standing ovation, Katz expressed deep gratitude:
“Everyone is so kind… Many years ago, I used to work out with Joe Weider in New York… and I know he had a dream, and the dream was to make bodybuilding much bigger than it was then. And he searched Europe and he found Arnold. And it’s interesting to me the vision and foresight that Joe had because he was looking for a great body, but who would have ever thought that it wasn’t just a body he was looking for; he was looking for someone to take bodybuilding to the next level… I’d like to thank Arnold for this. This, to me, as a football player, is like winning the Heisman Trophy. I’ve won many awards, but this is the most important award, and I am so happy to receive it.”
A Testament to Resilience
Beyond his bodybuilding accolades, Katz has faced personal battles, including a courageous fight against cancer. He paid tribute to fellow survivors, stating:
“Whenever someone says you can’t, you say I can. You say I can.”
A Legacy Cemented
The Arnold Classic Lifetime Achievement Award has a storied history, with past recipients including luminaries like Joe Weider, Reg Park, and Jay Cutler. Katz’s inclusion in this esteemed list underscores his lasting impact on the bodybuilding community.
The 2025 Arnold Classic: A Celebration of Excellence
The 2025 Arnold Classic, held from February 27 to March 2 in Columbus, Ohio, showcased the pinnacle of bodybuilding talent. The event featured a staggering $500,000 purse for the Open Bodybuilding winner, attracting top-tier competitors. Notable participants included reigning Mr. Olympia Samson Dauda, former Mr. Olympia Brandon Curry, and rising star Andrew Jacked.
Looking Ahead
As the bodybuilding world celebrates Mike Katz’s legacy, his story serves as an enduring inspiration. From his early days training alongside icons to his personal battles and triumphs, Katz embodies the spirit of resilience and passion that defines the sport.
For more insights into the Arnold Classic and its illustrious history, explore our comprehensive coverage and exclusive interviews.
