Anibal Lopez

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Anibal Lopez, an American bodybuilder born on August 24, 1942, in Río Piedras, Puerto Rico, has a remarkable journey that led him to become a prominent figure in the world of bodybuilding. His life is a testament to dedication, passion, and the pursuit of excellence.

Early Life and Passion for Bodybuilding

Lopez’s fascination with strength and muscular power began at a young age. He was captivated by tales of men performing incredible feats of strength, often found in comic books and movies. Tarzan’s adventures in comic books and Johnny Weissmuller’s portrayal of the hero in films left a lasting impression on him. However, it was Steve Reeves, starring as Hercules on the silver screen, who ignited Lopez’s passion for bodybuilding. This pivotal moment planted the seed of ambition within him, and he was determined to pursue the path of physical excellence.

Years later, in a remarkable turn of events, Steve Reeves himself would acknowledge Anibal Lopez as one of his favorite bodybuilders, a testament to Lopez’s dedication to the craft.

One of the early influences on Lopez’s journey was witnessing a guest posing exhibition by IFBB Hall of Fame bodybuilder Leroy Colbert. It was a moment that deepened his connection to bodybuilding and cemented his admiration for the sport’s legends.

Military Service and Love for Challenge

Anibal Lopez served in the United States Army with the prestigious 101st Airborne Division. During his military service, he discovered a love for the exhilarating challenge of airborne operations, including jumping out of aircraft in flight. His courage and dedication led him to become a member of the 19th Special Forces Group (Airborne) in the National Guard. Over his military career, Lopez was credited with more than 100 jumps, including 10 night jumps, each from different aircraft. His experiences in the military instilled discipline and resilience that would serve him well in his bodybuilding journey.

Transition to Bodybuilding

While Lopez initially pursued gymnastics and boxing, his growing passion for weightlifting and bodybuilding soon eclipsed his other sporting interests. He began his training journey with limited equipment at home, using a barbell and a pair of dumbbells that he ordered from a Joe Weider magazine for $19.95. With a homemade wood bench, he embarked on a transformative journey of self-improvement.

It was during his time residing in the Throgsneck Projects in the Bronx that Lopez made significant strides in his weight training. He transitioned from his home-based workouts to a sports center within the projects, which marked a turning point in his physical development. The results were evident in both his increased size and strength. Notably, during this period of training at the Throgsneck center, he achieved a significant milestone by winning his first trophy in powerlifting.

Professional Career and Achievements

Anibal Lopez’s journey led him to join the AAU (Amateur Athletic Union), marking the beginning of his competitive bodybuilding career. He entered his first novice bodybuilding contest, the “Mr. Wagner,” held at the Wagner Youth Center in Manhattan. To his astonishment, he emerged as the overall winner, a remarkable achievement for someone new to the sport.

This early success fueled his ambition to achieve the prestigious title of “Mr. New York City.” It was the start of a long and successful professional career in bodybuilding, marked by dedication, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

Life After Competitive Bodybuilding

While Anibal Lopez has retired from competitive bodybuilding, his passion for the sport remains undiminished. He continues to train and stay active in the world of bodybuilding, sharing his knowledge and inspiring others. Lopez has relocated to Deltona, Florida, where he enjoys the rewards of a lifetime dedicated to fitness and physical excellence.

Anibal Lopez’s journey serves as a source of inspiration for aspiring bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts. His dedication to the craft, combined with the indomitable spirit that led him from humble beginnings to the pinnacle of bodybuilding, stands as a testament to the transformative power of passion and perseverance.

Anibal Lopez Bodybuilding Competition History

1969
Junior Mr America – AAU, 7th
Junior Mr USA – AAU, Most Muscular, 3rd
Mr USA – AAU, 6th

1970
Mr America – AAU, 6th
Mr America – AAU, Most Muscular, 10th
Junior Mr America – AAU, 3rd
Mr World – AAU, Short, 2nd

1971
Mr America – AAU, 6th
Mr East Coast – AAU, Winner
Junior Mr America – AAU, 4th
Junior Mr USA – AAU, 3rd
Mr World – AAU, Short, 1st
Mr World – AAU, 4th

1972
Junior Mr America – AAU, 5th

1973
Mr America – AAU, 3rd
Junior Mr America – AAU, 3rd
Junior Mr America – AAU, Most Muscular, 5th
Junior Mr USA – AAU, 3rd
Junior Mr USA – AAU, Most Muscular, 5th
Mr USA – AAU, 3rd

1974
Mr America – AAU, 8th

1975
Mr America – AAU, 12th
Mr America – AAU, Short, 3rd
Mr USA – AAU, Most Muscular, 2nd
Mr USA – AAU, 2nd
Mr USA – IFBB, Short, 3rd

1976
Pro Mr America – WBBG, 4th

1977
Pro Mr America – WBBG, Short, 1st
Pro Mr World – WBBG, Did not place

1978
Pro Mr America – WBBG, Overall Winner
Pro Mr America – WBBG, Short, 1st
Natural Mr America – NBA, Professional, 3rd
Mr Universe – NABBA, Short, 3rd
Pro Mr World – WBBG, Winner

1979
Night of Champions – IFBB, 10th

1980
Pro Mr America – WBBG, Winner
Grand Prix Miami – IFBB, 8th
Grand Prix Pennsylvania – IFBB, 11th
Night of Champions – IFBB, 14th
Pro Mr World – WBBG, Winner

1981
Night of Champions – IFBB, 14th