Theirry Pastel

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Thierry Pastel and Serge Nubret: A Tale of Two French Bodybuilding Icons

The world of bodybuilding has witnessed the rise of many legendary figures who have left an indelible mark on the sport. Among these luminaries are Thierry Pastel and Serge Nubret, two French bodybuilding icons whose stories continue to inspire and captivate enthusiasts to this day.

Serge Nubret, affectionately known as “The Black Panther,” was a formidable presence in the bodybuilding world. Born on October 6, 1938, Nubret’s journey in the sport began in the early 1960s when he joined the International Federation of Bodybuilders (IFBB). His remarkable physique and dedication propelled him to win the title of the “World’s Most Muscular Man” in Montreal. This was just the beginning of a stellar career that would see him reach the pinnacle of bodybuilding success.

Nubret’s relentless pursuit of perfection led to numerous victories, including the prestigious NABBA Mr. Universe title in 1976. His remarkable journey continued as he clinched the titles of WBBG Pro. Mr. World and Mr. Olympus in 1977, both of which solidified his status as a bodybuilding legend. Nubret would go on to win another World champion title in 1981, further cementing his legacy. In a remarkable feat, he became the WABBA World Champion in 1983, 23 years after his initial world-class achievement, showcasing his enduring commitment to the sport. Even at 65 years old, Nubret continued to grace the stage and inspire his audience during the 2003 World Championships in France.

However, Serge Nubret’s contributions to bodybuilding extended beyond his own accomplishments. He was a dedicated advocate for the sport’s development and promotion. From 1970 to 1975, he served as the head of the French and European IFBB bodybuilding federations, where he played a crucial role in shaping the sport’s landscape. In 1975, Nubret founded the World Amateur Body Building Association (WABBA), an organization dedicated to hosting amateur bodybuilding competitions. His tireless efforts helped nurture and expand the bodybuilding community.

Serge Nubret’s influence also transcended the stage, as he ventured into the world of film. His presence in the 1977 documentary “Pumping Iron,” alongside the legendary Arnold Schwarzenegger, showcased his charisma and dedication to the sport, further solidifying his place in bodybuilding history.

In contrast to the towering presence of Serge Nubret, Thierry Pastel, born on June 6, 1959, defied conventional expectations in the world of bodybuilding. Standing at just 5 feet 2 inches, Pastel’s stature was a stark contrast to the giants of the sport. However, what he lacked in height, he more than made up for with his jaw-dropping physique.

When the name Thierry Pastel arises in bodybuilding conversations, one feature that inevitably takes center stage is his awe-inspiring set of abs. Pastel’s midsection was a work of art, boasting a crisp eight-pack with ridges so deep that they could easily conceal a coin. His chiseled abs were a testament to his unwavering dedication to the sport.

But Thierry Pastel’s remarkable physique extended beyond his abs. His arms, often hailed as some of the best in the sport’s history, were not only massive but also exceptionally well-shaped. His arms rivaled those of competitors who stood a half-foot taller than him. The juxtaposition of his compact frame and bulging arms was a sight to behold, showcasing both genetics and hard work.

However, what truly set Thierry Pastel apart was his exceptional posing ability. He approached each shot with an artistic sensibility, infusing unconventional angles, hand placements, and torsion angles to create a visually stunning performance. Pastel’s unique style reflected the spirit of an artist rather than a conventional athlete. Unsurprisingly, his remarkable posing skills can be attributed to his mentorship under another French bodybuilding maestro, Serge Nubret.

Serge Nubret, himself renowned for his posing prowess, served as a guiding light for Pastel. The influence of Nubret’s artistic approach to bodybuilding was evident in Pastel’s performances. The French protege took the master’s teachings and added his own creative flair, crafting a unique aesthetic that resonated with fans and competitors alike.

While the likes of Thierry Pastel and Serge Nubret may no longer grace the contemporary bodybuilding stages, their legacy lives on in the timeless images captured during their prime. These photos continue to inspire generations of aspiring bodybuilders, encouraging them to explore the artistry and aesthetics that define the sport.

Thierry Pastel’s competitive journey also merits recognition. He boasted an impressive resume, including three WABBA World Championships and the European WABBA title in 1987. His participation in the IFBB Mr. Olympia, with his best placement as 8th in 1991, demonstrated his tenacity and skill on the global stage.

In the annals of bodybuilding history, both Serge Nubret and Thierry Pastel have left an indelible mark. Their stories serve as a testament to the diversity and artistry within the sport, proving that greatness in bodybuilding can take many forms. As fans and enthusiasts continue to discover the legacies of these two French bodybuilding icons, they draw inspiration from their extraordinary dedication and unique contributions to the world of muscle and artistry.

Thierry Pastel Bodybuilding Competition History

1984
World Championships – WABBA, Winner

1985
World Championships – WABBA, Professional, 4th

1986
Universe – Pro – NABBA, 4th
World Championships – WABBA, Professional, 1st

1987
European Championships – WABBA, Professional, 1st
Universe – Pro – NABBA, 9th
World Championships – WABBA, Professional, 1st

1989
Grand Prix England – IFBB, 5th
Grand Prix France – IFBB, 5th
Grand Prix Germany – IFBB, 7th
Grand Prix Holland – IFBB, 8th
Grand Prix Spain (2) – IFBB, 7th
Grand Prix Spain – IFBB, 7th
Grand Prix Sweden – IFBB, 6th

1990
Grand Prix France – IFBB, 3rd
Grand Prix Holland – IFBB, Winner
Night of Champions – IFBB, 9th

1991
Arnold Classic – IFBB, 5th
Grand Prix Denmark – IFBB, 4th
Grand Prix England – IFBB, 6th
Grand Prix Finland – IFBB, 3rd
Grand Prix Italy – IFBB, 4th
Grand Prix Spain – IFBB, 4th
Grand Prix Switzerland – IFBB, 3rd
Ironman Pro Invitational – IFBB, 4th
Musclefest Grand Prix – IFBB, 2nd
Night of Champions – IFBB, 4th
Olympia – IFBB, 8th
Pittsburgh Pro Invitational – IFBB, 3rd

1992
Arnold Classic – IFBB, 6th
Chicago Pro Championships – IFBB, 2nd
Grand Prix England – IFBB, 6th
Grand Prix Germany – IFBB, 6th
Grand Prix Holland – IFBB, 3rd
Grand Prix Italy – IFBB, 6th
Ironman Pro Invitational – IFBB, 4th
Night of Champions – IFBB, 4th
Olympia – IFBB, 10th
Pittsburgh Pro Invitational – IFBB, 3rd

1993
Arnold Classic – IFBB, 13th
Chicago Pro Championships – IFBB, 11th
Grand Prix France (2) – IFBB, 2nd
Grand Prix France – IFBB, 6th
Grand Prix Germany – IFBB, 11th
Ironman Pro Invitational – IFBB, 12th
Night of Champions – IFBB, Did not place
Pittsburgh Pro Invitational – IFBB, 10th

1994
Arnold Classic – IFBB, 11th
Grand Prix France (2) – IFBB, 4th
Grand Prix France – IFBB, 6th
Night of Champions – IFBB, 11th
Olympia – IFBB, 14th

1995
Grand Prix France – IFBB, 6th
Grand Prix Ukraine – IFBB, 6th