10x Ms. Olympia, and 7x Ms. International winner, Iris Kyle and 3X Women’s Physique Olympia winner, Sarah Villegas, have vented their frustration towards the promoters of the Arnold Classic.
In a recent post on her official Instagram page, bodybuilding’s legendary female athlete called for inclusivity and equality for female events.
Focussing on the Arnold Classic, Iris pointed out that several female categories have been removed from bodybuilding’s second biggest event, after the Olympia Weekend.
The Ms. International event was a part of the Arnold Classic from 1989 to 2013. Iris Kyle is a seven-time winner of this title.
In 2014, Arnold Schwarzenegger’s former partner Jim Lorimer announced that the Ms. International would be replaced by the Men’s 212 event. Lorimer allegedly said that this decision was made to keep in line with the demands of the fans.
While the Ms. International lasted 25 years, the Men’s 212 event only lasted five years.
In recent years, the promoters of the Arnold Classic also removed the Ms. Figure International, Women’s Physique, and Men’s 212 Bodybuilding.
The Olympia Weekend promoters also followed and removed the Ms. Olympia from their event in 2014, but new owner Jake Wood included the event in 2020 after he purchased the event.
In the past few years, Women’s Physique Olympia winner, Sarah Villegas, has also vented her frustration towards the Arnold Classic organizers, following the news that the Women’s Physique event was removed from the show’s schedule.
Iris Kyle’s Message
“My thoughts – Arnold Sports with all due respect. A call for equality and recognition in Women’s sports. In the realms of sports, where the spirit of competition and excellence knows no bounds, it is disheartening to witness a glare of oversight in one of the prestigious events in our industry. The absence of opportunities for women athletes to perform and compete alongside their male counterparts is not just disappointing it highlights a broader issue of recognition and appreciation within our sports community. Women athletes, through their hard work, dedication undeniable talent have proven time again that they are not only deserving but rightful participants in every arena of competition”
“The exclusive of categories such as women’s bodybuilding, physique, and figure sends a discouraging message about how the achievements and contributions of women are valued in our society. While I’m someone who typically observes and reflects quietly respecting and upholding the principles of responsibility and respect, there comes a time when silence no longer serves progress. It’s in these moments that we must stand together, raise our voices, and advocate for what is just and fair”
“Supporting and promoting women’s sports is not just about creating opportunities, it’s about acknowledging the hard-earned accomplishments of countless women athletes who inspire and aspire to reach the pinnacle of their careers. Let us not forget the essence of sport is competition, improvement, and breaking barriers”
“By denying women athletes their rightful place in prestigious events, we are not only limiting the potential of half the population but also diminishing the spirit of sportsmanship that is at the heart of what we do. I call on EVERYONE within our community and beyond to recognize the importance of inclusivity, equality, and support for women’s sports.”
“Let us work together to ensure that women athletes are given the platforms they deserve to showcase their talents, share their stories, and inspire the next generation. In advocating for change and progress, we must remember that every athlete, regardless of GENDER, contributes to the rich tapestry of our sports heritage.” – 10X Ms. Olympia Iris Kyle.
Sarah Villegas’ Message
“Increasing prize money for Men’s Open is definitely applaudable and deserves recognition, but it does not change the fact that the Arnold Sports Festival continues to exclude all women’s muscle categories.”
– No Women’s Physique ($0)
– No Figure, no Women’s Bodybuilding, and no Men’s 212 ($0)
Arnold Sports, you don’t earn stripes by just throwing in extra dollars for the Men’s Open, you start with inclusion. Start with using your platform to support every IFBB category. Greatness is a little bit more than “difficult business decisions”, Arnold knows that.
Schwarzenegger, It’s never too late to do the right thing.” – Sarah Villegas
Read More: Villegas calls out Schwarzenegger for omitting Women’s Physique
Arnold Schwarzenegger has increased the 2025 Arnold Classic Men’s Bodybuilding prize to $500,000. The bodybuilding world is hoping that Olympia Weekend owner, Jake Wood, will respond with an increase in the Olympia Weekend’s prize fund for 2025 as well. It must be noted that the Olympia Weekend caters to 11 IFBB Pro Divisions compared to the seven at the Arnold Classic.
MS. International Champions
1989: Jackie Pearsley
1990: Laura Creavalle
1991: Tonya Knight
1992: Anja Schreiner
1993: Kim Chizevsky
1994: Laura Creavalle
1995: Laura Creavalle
1996: Kim Chizevsky
1997: Yolanda Hughes
1998: Yolanda Hughes
1999: Vickie Gates
2000: Vickie Gates
2001: Vickie Gates
2002: Yaxeni Oriquen
2003: Yaxeni Oriquen
2004: Iris Kyle
2005: Yaxeni Oriquen
2006: Iris Kyle
2007: Iris Kyle
2008: Yaxeni Oriquen
2009: Iris Kyle
2010: Iris Kyle
2011: Iris Kyle
2012: Yaxeni Oriquen
2013: Iris Kyle
