Nasser El Sonbaty (Arabic: ناصر السنباطى; born 15 October 1965 – 20 March 2013) was an IFBB professional bodybuilder. He represented FR Yugoslavia at competitions. Born in Stuttgart, Sonbaty began bodybuilding in 1983. His first appearance in the Mr. Olympia competition was in 1994, where he placed 7th. His best placing in the Mr. Olympia competition was in 1997, where he placed 2nd behind Dorian Yates. Most bodybuilders including Jay Cutler and Ronnie Coleman agree he deserved 1st place. After placing 2nd in the Arnold Classic twice, in 1997 and 1998, he won the title in 1999, defeating Kevin Levrone. He was known for his shoulder development.

Early life

Sonbaty was born in the German city of Stuttgart to an Egyptian father and a Yugoslav mother from Novi Pazar, Serbia. Sonbaty was a graduate of the University of Augsburg with a degree in history, political science, and sociology. He had two sisters and two brothers.

Career

Sonbaty began bodybuilding in 1983. His first competition was a Junior State Championship in Germany in 1985, where he placed 6th. His first appearance in the Mr. Olympia competition was in 1994, where he placed 7th. In total, Sonbaty competed in 13 amateur shows and 53 IFBB Pro shows. He qualified for 10 consecutive Mr. Olympia contests and entered nine Mr. Olympia competitions. His best placing in the Mr. Olympia competition was in 1997, where he placed 2nd. Sonbaty was known for posing and training while wearing his trademark round spectacles; alongside his fluency in several languages (seven in total), this is likely the basis for his nickname, "The Professor". Despite weighing over 300 lbs in the offseason, he could still show his full abdominal muscles. He has been featured in many international fitness and bodybuilding magazines, articles as well as being pictured on over 60 covers.

Personal life

Sonbaty split his time between San Diego, California and Costa Mesa, California. He died in his sleep during a visit to Cairo on March 20, 2013.

Stats

Pro contest history

Training videos