Križánek under fire from critics: legendary pose didn't work out as expected, even Jay Cutler spoke out

Slovak bodybuilding star Michal Križánek has been experiencing a wave of success lately, but after his recent performance in Prague, he has to deal with harsh criticism. Although he took a great third place at the prestigious EVLS Prague Pro competition, his attempt to honour history was not met with the approval of fans and legends of the sport.

A risk that didn't pay off

During his routine, the "Bojnice giant" decided to imitate one of the most iconic poses in bodybuilding history - the winning gesture of the legendary Sergio Oliva with his hands above his head. Although Krizanek admitted after the competition that he felt progress in posing, this particular moment proved to be a step off.

Four-time Mr. Olympia champion Jay Cutler also weighed in on the situation on social media, and he didn't mince words:

"I saw Krijo attempting the Olive pose, but it wasn't a good idea. If you have a waist like that, just never raise your hands above your head."

The elusive "The Myth"

Comparisonsto Sergio Oliva are almost always a losing battle for contemporary bodybuilders. Oliva, nicknamed "The Myth", had such a specific physique - an extremely narrow waist in contrast to his huge back and round muscles - that his pose seemed almost supernatural. Even Arnold Schwarzenegger himself once acknowledged this. Experts often point out that the only person who ever came close to Olive's performance was Australian Lee Priest. For Krizanek, however, this stance rather drew attention to his wider waist, which fans perceived as an unnecessary risk that could have cost him points.

Up to Olympia

Despite this controversy and criticism, Michal Križánek has reason to rejoice. In Prague he finished behind the winner Martin Fitzwater and the silver medalist Samson Dauda, but his main goal had already been achieved. Thanks to his triumph in the UK he has a qualification for the upcoming Mr. Olympia in his pocket.

Krizanek is not worried about the feedback and is focusing on his preparation. He describes his current form as his life and now he has plenty of time to fine-tune the details to show the best version of himself on the world's most prestigious stage.