Mike Matarazzo

Mike Matarazzo tore up stages in the 90's until his retirement in 2001 due to health issues. His energetic, crowd-charging performances made him a crowd favorite and his huge arms made him a stand-out in any posedown, earning him the nickname "big guns".

Though mike hit the Olympia stage 7 times his best placing was 9th in 1998.

Mike makes my list of bodybuilders that have inspired me because he never gave up. He gave his all everytime he stepped on stage and always seemed more concerned with pleasing the crowds and fans than his show placement. He was a natural showman and one of the original "freaks".

Open heart surgery in 2004 as a result of clogged arteries due to the tremendous amount of red meat Mike was eating and admitted steriod use brought Mikes career to an end taking away one of bodybuildings most dynamic and exciting personalities.