Mike Katz Honored with 2025 Arnold Classic Lifetime Achievement Award

[Bodybuilding News]

The 2025 Arnold Sports Festival, held from February 27 to March 1 in Columbus, Ohio, celebrated numerous milestones in the bodybuilding community. A highlight of the event was the honoring of Golden Era bodybuilding legend, Mike Katz, with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award.

Mike Katz: A Pillar of Bodybuilding's Golden Era​

Early Life and Transition to Bodybuilding​

Standing at 6'1", Mike Katz initially made his mark as a professional football player. However, his passion for strength training led him to the world of bodybuilding, where he became renowned for his balanced physique and impressive size.

Competitive Achievements​

Throughout his illustrious career, Katz achieved significant accolades, notably securing second place in the Over 200 pounds category at the 1976 Mr. Olympia competition. His dedication and performance during this period solidified his status among bodybuilding elites.

Contribution to Bodybuilding Culture​

Beyond competitions, Katz played a pivotal role in popularizing bodybuilding. His appearance in the 1977 docudrama "Pumping Iron" provided audiences with an intimate look into the lives of bodybuilders, further elevating the sport's prominence.

The 2025 Arnold Classic Lifetime Achievement Award Ceremony​

Arnold Schwarzenegger's Tribute​

At the ceremony, Arnold Schwarzenegger, a longtime friend and training partner of Katz, shared heartfelt memories. He recalled their early days together, emphasizing Katz's dedication and character. Schwarzenegger humorously recounted an instance where he and Franco Columbu were so impressed by Katz's chest development that they devised a plan to observe it while Katz was asleep, only to find it remained impressively prominent.


Never before seen clips from the classic bodybuilding film "Pumping Iron" (1977). This clip features Bill Grant, Arnold, Franco and Mike Katz in a scene that looks to be filmed after the prejudging and before the finals at the 1975 Mr. Olympia contest in Pretoria, South Africa. Bill Grant was supposed to compete in the contest that day but he missed his connecting flight to Africa in Paris. When he finally arrived in Pretoria, he had missed the prejudging but the officials allowed him to pose at the finals. However, he was not placed because he was never judged in the prejudging earlier. Bill jokes with Arnold at the beginning of the clip, mentioning that Arnold had previously left Waller behind in Hawaii when they were guest posing out there. Arnold mentions to Mike Katz that he is traveling to another city in South Africa the next day for a guest posing exhibition. Katz had competed one day earlier in the 1975 IFBB Mr. Universe where he placed 4th in the Tall Class.

Katz's Acceptance Speech​

At 80 years old, Mike Katz reflected on his journey in bodybuilding and the significance of the honor. Drawing parallels to his football days, he remarked that receiving the award felt akin to winning the Heisman Trophy. He expressed profound gratitude, acknowledging the visionaries like Joe Weider and Arnold Schwarzenegger who propelled bodybuilding to new heights.

Legacy and Impact on Modern Bodybuilding​

Mentorship and Influence​

Mike Katz's influence extends beyond his competitive years. As a mentor and coach, he has inspired countless athletes, emphasizing perseverance and dedication. His mantra, "Whenever someone says you can't, you say I can," resonates with many in the fitness community.

Recognition Among Peers​

The Lifetime Achievement Award places Katz among esteemed company, joining past recipients like Flex Wheeler, Jay Cutler, and Ronnie Coleman. This accolade underscores his lasting impact on the sport and his role in its growth over the decades.


Mike Katz was one of the main characters in the 1975 Docudrama and he was also an iconic classic bodybuilder from the 1970's.