1981 Mr. Olympia: The most Controversial Bodybuilding Show

The 1981 Mr. Olympia competition is one of the most controversial shows in the history of Mr. Olympia.

The winner of the show, legendary bodybuilder and strongman Franco Columbo won 1981, Mr. Olympia.

However, not many people agree that he should have won the show.

Bodybuilders in that show, such as Danny Padilla and Tom Platz, had a better physique than Franco Columbo.

Here’s the thing.

Franco Columbo was known and respected in the bodybuilding community at that time.

While other bodybuilders competing were less known.

That may be why the judges favored Franco since he had been competing for a long time and had a fabulous physique.

When you look at the pictures from the show, you can see why Franco may not have been the rightful champion.

1981 Mr. Olympia photos

Tom Platz came in with his best physique ever, he was known for his legs, but at this Mr. Olympia, he brought the whole package.

His upper body finally matched his insane legs somewhat, while Franco had Gynecomastia in his right pec, which was a big flaw to his signature chest separation.

Danny Padilla also came in really shredded and symmetrical, and it was probably a better physique than Franco had at the show.

Tom Platz robbed at the 1981 Olympia?

The question of Tom Platz was the rightful winner at the 1981 Olympia cannot be ignored.

He had the best legs and also the most muscular upper body.

Tom Platz came in shredded and should have in the opinions of many wins that show pretty clearly.

While Franco arguably could have gotten a fifth place for the package he brought.