When The Professor hit the stage, class was in session.

Bodybuilding during the 90’s was a whole different beast compared to what we saw during the 70’s and 80’s. Where decades before the key was to have a well built and muscular figure with a narrow waist, in the 90’s it was all about being a mass monster while at the same time maintaining a shredded figure. Guys like Dorian Yates, Shawn Ray, Flex Wheeler, Kevin Levrone, and Ronnie Coleman all exemplified the 90’s era of bodybuilding. Massive bulk and massive muscle.

Another bodybuilder of the time, Nasser El Sonbaty, came onto the scene with an impressive figure in his own right. He had the size, shape, and definition that saw him win a great number of competitions, including the Night of Champions and the 1999 Arnold Classic.

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The half Egyptian, half Serbian, bodybuilder, also known as The Professor, was even a near match for Dorian Yates who was dominating the field at the time. Despite his impressive form, The Professor would fall short against Yates in the 1997 Mr. Olympia competition, taking second place. Nevertheless, Sonbaty was one of those bodybuilders that any fan could admire and appreciate not only for his physique, but for his great level of intelligence as well. He spoke several languages and graduated college with a number of degrees in history, political science, and sociology.

The man was truly a sight to behold and even was known for doing guest posing wearing glasses. It’s perhaps one of the chief reasons that he adopted the name of The Professor. We could talk about the man’s prowess all day, but it’s even more beneficial for you to appreciate his greatness for yourself. Check it out.

Sadly, Nasser passed away in March of 2013 during a visit to Egypt. At only 47 years of age one could only imagine the kind of influence he would have on the sport if he were still with us. But despite that, it’s quite obvious that the man has had a huge impact on bodybuilding and should be remembered as one of the greats of the sport.

What’s your thoughts on Nasser El Sonbaty? Let us know in the comments below and be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook and Twitter.