Can you say upset?

Heading into the 2018 Olympia the talk concerning Men’s Open Bodybuilding was largely focused on whether Phil Heath would tie Ronnie Coleman and Lee Haney’s record of eight consecutive victories. There was talk about whether Mamdouh ‘Big Ramy’ Elssbiay would be able to upset the reigning Mr. Olympia with his massive physique. But no one could have anticipated what would happen at the 2018 show.

Not only was there a major upset, the dethroning of the long reigning Olympia champion Phil Heath, it came from an unlikely source.

While Shawn Rhoden may have taken second place at the 2016 Olympia, last year saw him fall a few places putting his chances at victory in doubt for the 2018 show. But Shawn Rhoden used that as added motivation and it would be the spark that he needed to push himself harder than ever before.

Now the new Olympia champion, Shawn Rhoden Explains what the key was to his unprecedented upset of long time champion Phil Heath.

Shawn Rhoden also posted the very moment that he was crowned Mr. Olympia and it was truly something to behold.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

How do you beat a man that has nothing to loose?. Who Doesn’t know how to quit? You can’t . Don’t ever stop believing in yourself. Don’t ever give up, never stop fighting. Fight until there is no more fight. – Would love to take second to thank, our president Jim Manion. Robin Chang with AMI for a great production. Steve Wienburger and all the amazing judges. To me fellow athlete who pushes me every year by continuing to make improvements. To @philheath our 7 time champion, you push me more than anyone. Because of you I am a better bodybuilder and athlete. To my coaches @therealtechnician for believing in me since 2012, there is no one Ike you. @psychofitness21 for beating the carp out of me day in and day out. @stanimal9 love you brother, you stayed in the trenches with me and push me every day. To the loves of my life @michelle_sugarsb and Cora. Thank you for the inspiration, motivation and giving me a purpose to do what I do. You are my strength. To my family Richardson and Rhoden love you guys. Thank you poppy. To all the fans that believe in me. I appreciate the continued support. Told you guys I would never let you down. I did this for you and you and you and yes you. #thebestisyettocome #shawnrhoden #bodybuilding #thebestisyettocome #flexatron #nevergiveup #dontquit @hummerusafitness @feastmodeflavors @herbstrong @bevsgym @ifbb_pro_league @schieksportsinc @trifectasystem

A post shared by Shawn Rhoden (@flexatronrhoden) on Sep 16, 2018 at 1:57am PDT

Congratulations to Shawn Rhoden for the win and Phil Heath for an impressive title reign.

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