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All things considered, I feel OK about it. I'm not disappointed. I had many factors to deal with in preparation. Considering this was my first show overseas, my first show in the U.S., and my first show so far from home, I need to keep my perspective. This is the biggest contest there is, and I just need to use the experience I gained and build on it. I won't waste time concerning myself with an analysis of the judging… I am a sportsman above all else and I must accept my judgment and move on.
What would you have done differently to prepare for the show?
Ideally, I would have more time to prepare in the U.S. prior to the show. While I worked very hard in my prep and dieted very strictly, I could not predict my body's harsh reaction to such extreme travel. The trip from Russia to Las Vegas the week before the show made hitting my peak almost impossible.
What did you learn about yourself as a bodybuilder and as a person from your Olympia experience?
The lifestyle of the bodybuilder is difficult and the preparation for competition on a stage the size of the Olympia is arduous. I realized how crucial confidence is on this level. A definite positive was that I wasn't scared or overly nervous before the show. I felt I belonged. That is a good feeling.
Did you feel that an unfair amount of pressure and scrutiny has been placed on you considering your youth and inexperience?
There was a great deal of hype. I am not arrogant or vain and would hate to ever be perceived in that fashion. I do not compete for my ego or my own gratification. I compete for my fans. I was in the Olympia this year, even though my chest was not completely healed, because I know that people expect a lot from me and have been long anticipating my big contest debut. When I told my doctor that I was going to begin preparing for the Olympia, he responded, “Are you crazy?”
Any other shows planned for the next calendar year?
The next time I'll be onstage will be FIBO in Germany in 2006. As for the next time I'll compete, I plan to let my chest heal fully over the next year and begin to prep in autumn 2006.
Any further thoughts?
I'd like to thank Universal for their unwavering support. When I was injured and unable to fulfill my contractual obligations, they stood by me. That meant so much to me as a person, not just as a bodybuilder. Now I am determined to do well as a means of thanking them for their loyalty. I hope they can soon expand their influence and business further in Russia.
