The Artistic Bodybuilder: A Tribute to the Legacy of Cedric McMillan
Cedric McMillan, a man whose name resonated throughout the world of bodybuilding, didn’t start his journey with the intention of becoming a legend in the sport. Born into a world of artistry and inspiration, Cedric’s story is a testament to the power of passion, hard work, and the pursuit of aesthetic excellence. His life was tragically cut short, but his legacy lives on as a symbol of artistry in bodybuilding.
Early Life and Amateur Career
In the heart of South Carolina, a young boy named Cedric McMillan was captivated by the allure of muscular physiques. His early fascination with bodybuilding was influenced by the iconic Arnold Schwarzenegger, a man whose impact on Cedric’s life would be immeasurable. It was Schwarzenegger’s portrayal of Conan The Barbarian that ignited the spark within Cedric, fueling his determination to pursue the world of bodybuilding.
At the tender age of thirteen, Cedric’s mother gifted him a weight set, unknowingly setting in motion a journey that would define his life. The weights were his portal to a world of sculpted physiques and dedication. With a physique like Schwarzenegger’s as his vision, he embarked on a journey that would take him places he never imagined.
After completing high school, Cedric decided to join the U.S. Army, which led him to South Carolina. It was here that fate intervened in the form of a friend named Mark Neil. Mark recognized Cedric’s innate potential for bodybuilding and took it upon himself to guide and mentor him. Through Neil’s guidance, Cedric began to build size and gain valuable knowledge about bodybuilding.
Only one month of training under Neil’s watchful eye saw Cedric’s physique transform dramatically. Neil, astounded by this rapid progress, saw an opportunity for Cedric to enter a bodybuilding competition that was just four weeks away. During this incredibly brief period, Cedric’s weight skyrocketed from an initial 195 lbs to an astonishing 225 lbs, ultimately competing at 205 lbs. He entered the NPC South Carolina competition in 2007 and emerged victorious in the super heavyweight division.
Professional Career
Cedric McMillan’s ascent in the bodybuilding world was nothing short of remarkable. He possessed a Pro card since 2009 and was consistently considered among the best open division bodybuilders globally, with eight Pro wins under his belt. His most significant victory came in 2017 when he triumphed at the Arnold Classic Ohio, a momentous occasion that allowed him to meet his lifelong idol, Arnold Schwarzenegger. This achievement garnered him praise from the former Mr. Olympia himself.
McMillan’s most recent competition was at the 2020 Arnold Classic Ohio, where he demonstrated his enduring passion and dedication by placing sixth. Throughout his career, he earned a reputation for his unique aesthetic physique, characterized by classic lines and proportions. His tall stature, standing at over 6’1″, set him apart from many of his competitors.
In contrast to the mass monsters of bodybuilding, McMillan presented a more pleasing and classic aesthetic. He employed highly choreographed posing routines set to classical music, evoking memories of the iconic bodybuilders from the 1980s. His approach to bodybuilding represented a departure from the trend of ever-increasing mass and size, and his dedication to aesthetics was widely appreciated by fans and critics alike.
However, despite his incredible success in competitions like the Arnold Classic, McMillan often found himself at a disadvantage at the Mr. Olympia finals. The competition tended to favor the largest and most muscular physiques, which posed a challenge for taller bodybuilders like McMillan. His journey in the competitive world of bodybuilding reflected the ongoing debate regarding the ideal physique in the sport. Fans regarded him as an uncrowned Mr. Olympia and a beloved figure within the bodybuilding community.
Personal Life and Legacy
Beyond the spotlight of the bodybuilding stage, Cedric McMillan was a devoted family man. A sergeant first class and an instructor at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, he balanced his military career with his passion for bodybuilding. His upbringing and values emphasized the importance of family, and he remained close to his childhood friends throughout his life.
Cedric was not just a bodybuilder; he was also an amateur artist with a talent for drawing. He had a deep interest in music and culture, often incorporating his artistic talents into his posing routines, creating elaborate and highly choreographed displays that captivated audiences.
On April 12, 2022, the world of bodybuilding suffered a profound loss when Cedric McMillan passed away from a heart attack at the age of 44. His untimely departure left a void in the sport, but his legacy endures as a reminder of the artistic dimension of bodybuilding. His dedication to aesthetics, unique approach, and unforgettable presence on the stage continue to inspire aspiring bodybuilders worldwide.
Cedric McMillan’s story is a testament to the enduring impact of passion, hard work, and the pursuit of aesthetic excellence. While his time was tragically brief, his influence in the world of bodybuilding is destined to remain etched in the annals of the sport, a symbol of artistry and dedication that inspires generations to come.
Contest History
2007
South Carolina State – NPC, Overall Winner
South Carolina State – NPC, Super-HeavyWeight, 1st
2008
Junior USA – NPC, Overall Winner
Junior USA – NPC, Super-HeavyWeight, 1st
2009
Nationals – NPC, Overall Winner
Nationals – NPC, Super-HeavyWeight, 1st
2010
Europa Supershow – IFBB, Open, 4th
2011
New York Pro Championships – IFBB, Open, 11th
Orlando Show of Champions – IFBB, Winner
2012
New York Pro Championships – IFBB, Open, 1st
2013
Arnold Classic – IFBB, 6th
FIBO Germany – IFBB, Winner
New York Pro Championships – IFBB, Open, 12th
Olympia – IFBB, Open, 12th
2014
Arnold Classic – IFBB, Open, 3rd
2015
Arnold Classic – IFBB, Open, 4th
Arnold Classic Brasil – IFBB, 2nd
Atlantic City Pro – IFBB, 2nd
Golden State Pro Championships – IFBB, Winner
Nordic Pro (Finland) – IFBB, 3rd
2016
Arnold Classic – IFBB, Open, 2nd
Arnold Classic Australia – IFBB, 2nd
Levrone Classic Poland – IFBB, Winner
Olympia – IFBB, Open, 7th
2017
Arnold Classic – IFBB, Open, 1st
Ferrigno Legacy Pro – IFBB, 2nd
Olympia – IFBB, Open, 10th
2018
Arnold Classic – IFBB, Open, 3rd
Olympia – IFBB, Open, 9th
Toronto Pro – IFBB, Bodybuilding, 3rd
2019
Arnold Classic – IFBB, Bodybuilding, 4th
Arnold Classic Australia – IFBB, 2nd
Grand Prix Hungary – IFBB, Bodybuilding, 1st
Olympia – IFBB, Open, 7th
2020
Arnold Classic – IFBB, Open, 6th
Be the first to comment