By Roger Lockridge
Dr. Robert Goldman and the members of the International Sports Hall of Fame have announced their selection of world champion athletes that make up the induction class of 2016. Past inductees include Arnold Schwarzenegger, Lee Haney, Cory Everson, Paul “Triple H” Levesque, and several other icons of their sport. The 2016 induction class includes:
Ronnie Coleman – 8 Time Mr. Olympia
Ronnie is the most decorated professional bodybuilder in IFBB history with 26 victories headlined by his 8 Olympia titles and a 2001 Arnold Classic victory. With his induction, the three highest ranking members of the Olympia Champions Club are all members of the hall of fame (Lee Haney 8, Arnold Schwarzenegger 7).
Kurt Angle – WWE and TNA World Heavyweight Champion
The 1996 Olympic Gold Medalist in amateur wrestling has won over 10 world championships between WWE and TNA Wrestling. He headlined Wrestlemania 19 and he remains an ambassador to amateur wrestling.
Johnny Bench – World Series Champion and Baseball Hall of Fame Catcher for the Cincinnati Reds
Recognized as one of THE greatest catchers in baseball history, Bench was a leader of what would be known as “The Big Red Machine” – one of the greatest teams ever.
Royce Gracie – Mixed Martial Arts Legend and World Champion
There are many great UFC champions but Royce was the 1st. Recognized globally for his amazing skills and a teacher to countless great champions. The Gracie family is martial arts royalty.
Dolph Lundgren – Action film star and Karate Champion
Best known for his iconic role in Rocky IV and most recently with The Expendables, Dolph is also a decorated karate champion, winning championships in Europe.
AnnMaria DeMars – World Judo Champion
AnnMaria is the first American to win a world judo championship, winning the title in 1984. She’s also received attention in recent years as the mother of another judo superstar – Ronda Rousey!
Inductees will be honored by Dr. Goldman and Arnold Schwarzenegger in a ceremony in Columbus, OH on Saturday, March 5 as part of the Arnold Sports Festival. For more information, go to www.ishof.net
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Roger’s work has been featured globally in eight different languages. Respected not only for his vast knowledge in areas of fitness and strength training, but also for his inspiring work as a child advocate and childhood domestic violence awareness speaker. Formerly a Bodybuilding.com “Writer of the Year”, Roger also works with major brands from around the fitness industry.