Victor Martinez breaks down his picks for the best bodybuilders who actually had the worst genetics
The latest episode of the Generation Iron Podcast dives deep into the realities of bodybuilding—past and present. With fan questions steering the conversation, Victor Martinez brings his decades of experience and no-nonsense insight to the table. Alongside Edwin Mejia Jr., Ehsan Farahi, and Vlad Yudin, the episode touches on muscle growth strategies, recovery techniques, genetic potential, and even the politics behind Mr. Olympia titles.
Here’s a brief overview of the topics discussed in this week’s Generation Iron Podcast episode:
- What made the biggest difference in Victor Martinez’s physical growth as a bodybuilder?
- Breaking down cryotherapy and hyperbaric chambers for health, fitness, and pro sports.
- Is the future of genetically engineered bodybuilders closer than we think?
- Victor discusses successful pro bodybuilders who had inherently bad genetics.
- The Joe Weider era and the politics behind Mr. Olympia.
You can watch the full episode above. Keep reading for an in-depth breakdown on the latest podcast discussion. Let’s dive in!
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What Made the Biggest Difference in Victor’s Size and Growth?
Victor Martinez answers this with a split perspective: long-term progress versus short-term spikes. He shares that the most lasting and sustainable growth came slowly over time.
Consistency was the real secret. However, his biggest short-term size increases came right after competitions. While many bodybuilders take a break after a show, Victor went straight back into training for a month or two. That post-contest window, when his body was primed, allowed him to pack on serious muscle before taking a short break.
He also warns against relying too heavily on weight gainer supplements. While he used them in the past, Victor now leans toward whole, organic foods to put on quality size. His advice: skip the dirty bulk. Clean bulking—eating nutritious foods in a controlled calorie surplus—is how you gain muscle without packing on unnecessary fat.
Cryotherapy and Hyperbaric Chambers—Are They Worth It?
When it comes to recovery, Victor Martinez has tried both cryotherapy and hyperbaric chambers. Cryotherapy gets a big thumbs up. He’s a fan of centers that offer both cryotherapy and infrared saunas—he prefers those over standard steam saunas. According to Victor, infrared saunas are just more effective and comfortable.
Hyperbaric chambers, on the other hand, didn’t do it for him. While he acknowledges the science behind it—breathing pure oxygen under high pressure to promote healing—Victor found the experience uncomfortable and ultimately not worth his time.
Can We Genetically Engineer Muscle Growth?
As bodybuilding enters the era of tech and science, the question arises: Can we manipulate genes to enhance muscle-building potential?
Victor Martinez touches on CRISPR and other gene-editing technologies. While the science technically exists, it’s not something that’s available—or ethical—for regular use. For now, we’re limited to genetic testing that reveals predispositions to disease or traits. Victor does believe that one day gene editing could change bodybuilding, but we’re far from that reality.
Bodybuilders with Great Work Ethic but “Bad Genetics”
A controversial but compelling topic on the episode was about big-name bodybuilders who didn’t necessarily win the genetic lottery—but still reached elite levels.
Victor Martinez initially avoids calling out anyone directly, but Edwin throws Franco Columbu into the ring. Victor agrees, saying that Columbu, while a legend, likely wouldn’t hold up in today’s Men’s Open category. He even suggests that Columbu’s Olympia win was more about politics than performance.
Vlad brings up Rich Gaspari and Branch Warren. Victor respects both, citing Gaspari’s unreal conditioning and Warren’s insane mental fortitude. Gaspari may have lacked size compared to other mass monsters, but his shredded condition made him unforgettable. As for Branch Warren, Victor praises his ability to go beyond mental limits and achieve what others couldn’t, despite having less-than-ideal genetics.
Bodybuilders Who Coasted on Genetics
On the flip side, Victor Martinez calls out Paul Dillett as someone who coasted on raw genetics. His body responded so well to training that he didn’t need to push as hard. But that also held him back—Victor believes Dillett could have been a Mr. Olympia if he had combined his genetics with intense discipline.
He also mentions Lou Ferrigno. While Lou is iconic, Victor explains how his height actually worked against him. At over 6 feet tall, Lou had more surface area to fill with muscle to appear as thick as shorter competitors. That physical challenge limited how dominant he could be in competition.
Gregg Valentino also comes up in the discussion—famous for his “world’s biggest arms.” Vlad wonders if it was genetics or synthol. Victor believes Valentino had real genetic potential, but he chose a different path, getting involved in drugs and possibly synthol use. We’ll never know how far he could’ve gone had he focused purely on bodybuilding.
The Joe Weider Era and the Power of Magazine Politics
One of the most eye-opening parts of the podcast was the look into bodybuilding’s past—specifically the Joe Weider era, when magazines ruled the sport.
Victor Martinez explains that to be a star, you had to be a “Weider Athlete.” Joe Weider’s media empire controlled the narrative. Athletes under contract got more exposure and arguably more favorable judging. According to Victor, if you weren’t signed with Weider or MuscleTech, you probably weren’t going to win the Olympia. The politics were that deep.
He praises Steve Blechman for launching Muscular Development, offering an alternative platform for athletes. But once social media arrived, all that changed. Magazine exclusivity died, and so did much of their influence.
Wrap Up
This Generation Iron Podcast episode was a blend of honesty, history, and hard truths. Victor Martinez doesn’t sugarcoat anything—from clean bulking advice to calling out the industry’s favoritism. He shows respect for those who worked through genetic disadvantages and expresses frustration with those who had the potential but didn’t maximize it.
With fan questions steering the dialogue and the hosts pushing for candid takes, this episode offers a valuable look into bodybuilding beyond the stage lights and trophies. Whether you’re a hardcore lifter or a casual fan, it’s a deep dive into what really makes or breaks a champion—and it’s not always what you think.
