In the world of bodybuilding, few names evoke as much admiration and heartbreak as Matt Mendenhall. Revered as one of the most genetically gifted athletes in the history of the sport, Mendenhall’s potential seemed limitless. Yet, despite his extraordinary physique and undeniable charisma, he never earned a professional bodybuilding card—a fact that continues to perplex and sadden fans of the sport.
This is the story of Matt Mendenhall: his rise to prominence, his near-misses, the obstacles that held him back, and the legacy of a man who remains a legend despite never achieving the ultimate goal in bodybuilding.
A Star is Born
Born in 1960 in Cincinnati, Ohio, Matt Mendenhall grew up with an affinity for athletics. As a teenager, he excelled in gymnastics and football, but it was in bodybuilding that he found his true calling. His natural genetics were evident early on: broad shoulders, a tiny waist, and perfectly proportioned muscle bellies.
Mendenhall entered his first competition, the Mr. Cincinnati, at the age of 19 and won. This victory marked the beginning of a career that saw him quickly rise through the amateur ranks. His combination of symmetry, size, and stage presence made him stand out in every competition he entered.
Near-Misses and Frustrations
Despite his promising start, Mendenhall’s career was riddled with near-misses. He came close to winning several major amateur titles but often fell short to equally talented competitors.
One of his most notable disappointments came at the 1982 NPC USA Championships, where he placed second to Bob Paris—a future IFBB professional and one of the sport’s most aesthetic athletes. The battle between Mendenhall and Paris is still remembered as one of the greatest clashes of the golden era of amateur bodybuilding.
In 1984, Mendenhall again came agonizingly close at the NPC Nationals, finishing second to Mike Christian. The title would have granted him a professional card, but fate seemed to conspire against him. Despite having the physique of a professional, he remained an amateur.
The Role of Injuries and Health Setbacks
What set Mendenhall apart wasn’t just his physique but also the heartbreaking challenges he faced. His career was marred by injuries, illnesses, and accidents that prevented him from reaching his full potential.
- Severe Illnesses: Mendenhall frequently suffered from health problems leading up to major competitions. He battled illnesses that drained his energy and compromised his ability to train and perform at his peak.
- Injuries: Like many bodybuilders, Mendenhall dealt with injuries that disrupted his progress. Torn muscles, joint problems, and other physical setbacks sidelined him during crucial training periods.
- Accidents: One of the most tragic aspects of Mendenhall’s career was the series of accidents he endured. From car crashes to gym mishaps, these incidents left him physically and emotionally drained, further derailing his journey to the professional stage.
The Mental Toll
The constant setbacks took a toll on Mendenhall’s mental health. Despite his immense talent, he struggled with self-doubt and frustration. Watching his peers achieve professional status while he remained stuck in the amateur ranks was a bitter pill to swallow.
In interviews, Mendenhall spoke candidly about the pressure he felt to live up to his potential. He was often his own harshest critic, striving for perfection in a sport where even the smallest flaw could mean the difference between victory and defeat.
A Legacy Beyond Titles
Although Matt Mendenhall never turned professional, his influence on the sport is undeniable. He inspired countless bodybuilders with his aesthetic physique, work ethic, and perseverance. Fans and fellow competitors alike admired his ability to rise above adversity and continue pursuing his passion despite the odds stacked against him.
In retrospect, Mendenhall’s career serves as a poignant reminder that talent and potential don’t always guarantee success. The harsh realities of injuries, health issues, and the subjective nature of bodybuilding judging can derail even the most promising careers.
Gone but Not Forgotten
Matt Mendenhall passed away on August 28, 2021, at the age of 61. His death shocked the bodybuilding community, which mourned the loss of a true icon. Tributes poured in from fans and athletes worldwide, celebrating his legacy and lamenting the unfulfilled potential of a man who could have been one of the greatest.
Lessons from Matt Mendenhall’s Story
Matt Mendenhall’s life and career offer valuable lessons for athletes and fans alike:
- Genetics Aren’t Everything: Even with near-perfect genetics, external factors like injuries, health, and mental resilience play a critical role in success.
- Appreciate the Journey: Mendenhall’s story reminds us that success isn’t always about titles. His impact on the sport transcends trophies and accolades.
- Perseverance in the Face of Adversity: Despite numerous setbacks, Mendenhall continued to chase his dream, embodying the spirit of determination.
Conclusion
Matt Mendenhall may not have turned professional, but he remains one of the most beloved figures in bodybuilding history. His story is one of unfulfilled potential but also one of inspiration and resilience. While the bodybuilding world will always wonder “what could have been,” Mendenhall’s legacy is secure as a symbol of perseverance and passion in a sport that demands everything from its athletes.
Accomplishments
- 1978 Mr Ohio High School, 1st
- 1979 Teenage Mr Ohio, 3rd
- 1980 Teen Mr. Metropolitan, 1st and Open winner
- 1980 Mr. Ohio Association, 3rd
- 1981 Mr Cincinnati 1st,
- 1981 Buckeye Open, 1st
- 1982 NPC Nationals, 2nd
- 1983 NPC Nationals, 4th
- 1984 NPC Nationals, 2nd
- 1985 NPC USA Championships, 1st
- 1985 IFBB World Games, 2nd
- 1986 NPC Nationals, 2nd
- 1987 NPC Nationals, 10th
- 1988 NPC Nationals, 11th
- 1991 NPC Nationals, 5th
First Competition
3 years after he began lifting weights in the gym, Matt had sculpted an incredible physique. He’d surpassed all of his schoolmates in his senior year in terms of muscle, and already looked like a seasoned bodybuilder.
In 1978, at the age of 17, after encouragement from his family and school sports teacher, Matt entered his first competition – the Mr. Ohio High School show.
Despite no preparation, posing experience or tan, Matt dominated the contest. He walked away from his debut with the trophy.
It was at this point that Matt realized his potential to succeed in the industry.
Series of Unfortunate Events
Over the next 7 years, Matt appeared in a further 9 competitions, winning 4 of them. Although he came second on numerous occasions, Matt lost very respectably – in 1982, at the young age of 22, he lost out to future legend, Lee Haney.
However, he never managed to reach his genetic potential due to a series of serious illnesses and events.
In 1983, he suffered from a flu virus 3 weeks before the NPC Nationals. He lost significant weight and condition while recovering, but stepped on stage after his parents arrived at the show excited to see him compete.
A year later, he was involved in a car crash and was flung out of his front window. Although he managed to recover and bring his best shape to the competition, he was controversially beaten by Mike Christian to 1st place – the crowd were fuming and this decision would be questioned for years to come.
But in 1985, at the age of 25, Matt tasted rare success. He entered the NPC USA Championships and took home the trophy in the heavyweight division. This victory gained him entry to the World Games that year.
Short Break
By the time of the 1985 NPC World Games, Matt was suffering from jetlag and exhausted from his flight to London. This caused him to retain a lot of fluid for the competition, and he lost to a shredded Berry DeMey.
After another second place at the 1986 NPC Nationals, Matt fell ill again. His body wasn’t taking the pressures of competitive bodybuilding well, and he started to consider hanging up his boots.
After placing 10th and 11th in the 1987 and 1988 NPC Nationals – the lowest he’d placed in his career – he finally decided to take time away from the sport.
For the next 3 years, he enrolled a college to study homeopathic medicine and started his own supplements company.
Last show and Retirement
After being asked countless times by Joe Weider to make a comeback to competitive bodybuilding, Matt stepped on the stage at the 1991 NPC Nationals. Although he didn’t win, he’d placed at a respectable 5th
At the age of 31, Matt had made his last appearance on stage.
After retiring from the sport, Matt moved to Texas and began a personal training company. However, Matt had left the industry as a legend, regardless of his competitive history.
Death
On August 28, 2021 Matt passed away at the age of 61. At the time of writing, his cause of death has not been made public.
Training
While in his peak, Matt performed anywhere between 6-30 reps in sets of 4-5 depending on the exercise.
He enjoyed training to failure and completing forced reps in every exercise except legs.
Chest (Monday and Thursday)
• Incline dumbbell press: 5 sets x 6 to 8 reps with 130 lb [59 kg]
• Flat dumbbell press: 5 x 6 to 8 with 130 lb [59 kg]
• Flat or incline flies: 5 x 6 to 8 with 70 lb [32 kg]
• Barbell decline press: 4 x 6 with 340 lb [154 kg]
• Dumbbell pull–overs: 4 x 10 with 130 lb [59 kg]
• Cable crossovers: 4 x 10 with 120 lb [55 kg]
Back (Monday and Thursday)
• Wide–grip chins 4 x 8 to 10
• T–bar rows: 4 x 8 to 10 with 275 lb [125 kg]
• Lat pull–downs (front): 4 x 10 with 250 lb [114 kg]
• Seated rows: 4 x 8 with 250 lb [114 kg]
• Lat pull–downs (rear): 4 x 10 with 200 lb [91 kg]
• Hyperextensions: 4 x 12
• Dumbbell bent–over rows: 4 x 10 with 120 lb [55 kg]
(Note: Deadlifts are a major part of my back training, but I stop doing them about 6 weeks prior to the contest to avoid injury.)
Shoulders (Tuesday and Friday)
• Behind–neck press: 5 x 8 with 190 lb [86 kg]
• Side lateral raises: 5 x 8 with 50 lb [23 kg]
• Rear delt bent–over laterals: 5 x 8 with 80 lb [36 kg]
• Shoulder shrugs: 5 x 8 with 405 lb [184 kg]
• Upright rows: 3 x 8 with 145 lb [66 kg]
Biceps (Tuesday and Friday)
• Standing dumbbell curls: 4 x 8 with 65 lb [29 kg]
• Preacher curls: 4 x 8 with 120 lb [54 kg]
• Standing barbell curls: 4 x 8 with 150 lb [68 kg]
• Concentration dumbbell curls: 4 x 8 with 40 lb [18 kg]
Triceps (Tuesday and Friday)
• Lying French extensions: 4 x 8 with 140 lb [64 kg]
• Seated French extensions: 4 x 8 with 130 lb [59 kg]
• Push–downs: 4 x 8 with 150 lb [68 kg]
• Dumbbell extensions: 4 x 8 with 40 lb [18 kg]
Forearms (Friday)
• Reverse curls: 4 x 8 with 100 lb [45 kg]
• Wrist curls: 4 x 12 with 100 lb [45 kg]
Thighs (Wednesday and Saturday)
• Squats: 5 x 6 to 10 with 405 to 550 lb [184 to 250 kg]
• Hack squats: 4 x 8 with 250 lb [114 kg]
• Leg curls: 5 x 10 with 120 lb [54 kg]
• Thigh extensions: 5 x 10 with 200 lb [91 kg]
(Note: The last 3 weeks I add 4 sets of front and side lunges for separation.)
Calves (Wednesday and Saturday)
• Standing calf machine: 5 x 10 with 800 lb [364 kg]
• Seated calf raises: 5 x 8 with 300 lb [137 kg]
• Toe raises on leg press: 5 x 10 with 400 lb [182 kg]
• Donkey raises: 5 x 10 to 12
Abs (Everyday)
• Hanging leg raises: 4 x 30
• Sit–ups: 4 x 30
• Lying leg raises: 4 x 30
Nutrition
When he was competing, Matt would keep his calories at 1800 to get into peak condition. He’d cut out junk food completely from his diet and kept his fat intake as low as possible.
However, unlike other bodybuilders, Matt never counted his carbs. He planned his diet around lean proteins, complex carbs, fruit, and vegetables.
Matt prepared all of his meats and vegetables in a steamer.
Diet Plan
Matt’s diet would’ve looked something like this:
- Meal 1 – Protein shake with banana, apple juice and ice
- Meal 2 – Piece of fruit
- Meal 3 – Fish or chicken with vegetables
- Meal 4 – Fish or chicken with vegetables
Supplements Stack:
- Whey Protein
- Multivitamins
- Minerals
- Lecithin
- Choline
- Inositol
- Vitamin B
- Vitamin C
Idols and Influences
Since beginning weight training, Matt’s family had always been behind him – he names them as his main influences during his journey.
It was his brothers that led him onto the path of bodybuilding, and they trained with him throughout his career.
What we can learn from Matt Mendenhall
Matt has taught us to never give up on our dreams, regardless of any events. He still stepped on stage at numerous competitions despite suffering from extremely unfortunate events only weeks before.
One thing we can take away from Matt’s story is that winning trophies isn’t everything in life. Although he placed second on many occasions and didn’t become a professional bodybuilder, he’s still remembered as one of the greatest athletes in the sport’s history.
