Arnold Classic 2011 Prejudging - Dexter Jackson Off Again

The Arnold Schwarzenegger Classic and the Mr. Olympia are in a constant blood battle for supremacy among physique contests, and it is the rare bodybuilder who can claim victories at both events. One of those champs, Dexter Jackson was back onstage at the Arnold Classic 2011 prejudging, but he was finding the competition especially stiff. By following up a sub-par showing at the inaugural Flex Pro in late February with what is shaping up to be a scrape for the top six, "The Blade" has fans wondering whether the 41-year-old has finally hit the wall.

Although Jackson took second to Evan Centopani in Los Angeles two weeks ago, most observers thought that even that placing was too high. As usual, and as expected, though, Jackson's reputation got him a slot in the initial callout in Columbus on March 5. Presenting a smaller and softer physique than we've come to expect from the IFBB veteran, Jackson soon found himself sliding down the callout brackets. By the end of the afternoon show, it was clear that Jackson would be clawing for a spot in the top six, and some argued that he should be slotted even lower.

So, given all this, can Dexter Jackson reclaim the magic that he's displayed for the past dozen or so years and re-emerge as a contender for the Olympia crown, or is he destined to descend further down the standings? Well, he IS 41, and he's been flexing for a long time now. There is a good chance that his body is simply worn out from the rigors of the bodybuilding game and that he won't be able to regain his former sharpness. Even the great Ronnie Coleman succumbed to the ravages of time as he entered his mid-40s. Still, Dexter has never been viewed as an at-all-costs athletes, so he's probably less beaten up than others his age.

Time will tell whether or not Dexter Jackson has more of his best left to show the world or whether his days at the top of the mountain are over. Either way, there is no denying that he has cemented his place in history as an all-time great.