Shaun Clarida shares his opinion on the Olympia 2020 Men’s Open lineup and why Dexter Jackson is his GOAT.
The Mr. Olympia 2020 was a big weekend for Shaun Clarida due to his major victory in the Men’s 212 division. But it was also important to Clarida for another reason. It was Dexter Jackson’s last bodybuilding competition. Clarida believes that there will never be another pro bodybuilder like Jackson. It was a bittersweet farewell to a personal icon. In our latest GI Exclusive interview, Shaun Clarida explains why he thinks Dexter Jackson is the greatest bodybuilder of all time.
Shaun Clarida is currently riding high off the heels of a major victory at the Olympia 2020. He is now an Olympia champion in the Men’s 212 division and ready to prove to the world that he can remain a number one bodybuilder for years to come.
That’s why we connected with Shaun Clarida to talk in detail about his journey and also his thoughts on the Olympia 2020 as a whole. Specifically, we asked for his opinion on the Olympia 2020 Men’s Open lineup.
Shaun Clarida had nothing but positive things to say about top competitors in the Men’s Open. He was extremely impressed at the package Big Ramy brought to stage. He also was happy to see Phil Heath back to competing and Brandon Curry further improved – despite their lower placings.
But the biggest standout moment in the Men’s Open for Shaun Clarida was Dexter Jackson. This was his last time competing as a pro bodybuilder. He announced his retirement and gave a speech during the finals night.
While Dexter Jackson might not lead the top of the list when it comes to repeat Olympia victories (he has one), Clarida believes Jackson to be the best bodybuilder of all time. He’s Clarida’s personal GOAT.
Shaun Clarida understands how it’s easy to jump first to the longest running Olympia champions such as Lee Haney, Ronnie Coleman, and Phil Heath. But to Clarida there are more important qualities than winning on one night of the year. He sees consistency and passion in Dexter Jackson. It carried him into a long career into his 50s.
Beyond that, Dexter Jackson is also the most decorated professional bodybuilder of all time. With mutliple Arnold Classic wins, an Olympia win, and a NY Pro win among many others – he has proven himself to be a constant threat and a consistently talented athlete.
Shaun Clarida goes on to also discuss the rise of Hadi Choopan and reflects on his times in the past competing against him during Choopan’s time in Men’s 212. Overall, Clarida couldn’t be happier with how this year’s Olympia turned out. It was full of amazing physiques regardless of placing and promise for even bigger things in the future.
You can watch Shaun Clarida’s full comments in our latest GI Exclusive interview segment above.
