Kai Greene takes note of a smaller near-identical Indian version of Kai Greene – muscles, ponytail, and all
In the latest episode of the Kai Greene Effect, bodybuilding legend Kai Greene covered the latest trending topics as well as deeply personal insights – from addressing the controversy surrounding Hadi Choopan to sharing his experience filming a major movie in India. He also spoke about Sergio Oliva Jr., reacted to “Indian Kai Greene,” and answered whether or not he had ever reunited with his mother.
Here’s a brief overview on the topics discussed this week:
- Kai Greene reacts to the controversy surrounding Hadi Choopan
- Kai reflects on his time filming a major action movie in India
- He also reacts to “Indian Kai Greene” – a bodybuilder who has gone viral on the internet
- Kai still has faith in a future where Sergio Oliva Jr. becomes a major champion just like his father
- Has Kai ever reunited and made peace with his mother after all these years?
You can watch the full episode of the Kai Greene Effect above. Keep reading for a full recap of this week’s episode discussion. Let’s get into it!
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Kai Greene Reacts to Hadi Choopan Controversy
One of the most talked-about stories in bodybuilding right now centers around Hadi Choopan. The former Mr. Olympia has faced backlash over alleged support of the Iranian government. Some critics have even called for him to be boycotted from competing at the Arnold Classic.
In a surprising moment, Kai Greene admitted he had not heard about the controversy at all before it was brought up on the podcast. After being given a summary of what had happened, his immediate reaction was cautious.
“You almost don’t want to touch on that,” Kai said.
Rather than diving into political debate, Kai focused on the fact that Hadi Choopan is an athlete. In his view, it is acceptable for an athlete to focus on being an athlete. Bodybuilding, at its core, is about competition, discipline, and physical performance.
The Pressure of Living Under an Oppressive Government
Kai Greene also pointed out something many people overlook. Hadi Choopan lives in Iran. That reality comes with pressures that most Americans or Western fans may not fully understand.
Kai emphasized that the risks Hadi faces for speaking out against his government are far greater than the risks someone in the United States might face for posting an opinion online. When someone lives under an oppressive government, speaking publicly can carry serious consequences.
Kai suggested that silence does not automatically equal support. Just because Hadi Choopan has not publicly condemned the Iranian government does not mean he supports its actions or policies. It could mean that he is navigating a complicated and potentially dangerous situation.
Freedom of Expression in Sports
Kai then drew a comparison to something closer to home for American audiences. He referenced the controversy surrounding NFL players who kneeled during the national anthem as a form of protest.
In the United States, a football player bending a knee sparked massive outrage and debate. That alone shows how easily actions can be twisted or distorted in today’s online environment.
Kai’s point was clear. In a world where even symbolic protest can be polarizing, any statement from an international athlete can quickly become misrepresented.
In the current social media climate, context often disappears. Narratives form quickly. Reactions come fast. That makes it difficult for athletes like Hadi Choopan to navigate sensitive political territory without backlash from multiple sides.
Kai did not defend any government. Instead, he defended the idea that an athlete’s silence does not automatically define their political stance. He urged listeners to consider the human element and the pressures involved.
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Kai Greene’s Experience Filming a Movie in India
Shifting gears, Kai Greene also spoke about a very different experience: filming a major international movie in India.
Like many bodybuilders, Kai grew up inspired by athletes who successfully transitioned into film. Arnold Schwarzenegger set the blueprint. From Mr. Olympia to Hollywood icon, Arnold proved that bodybuilding could open doors far beyond the stage.
So when Kai was offered a role in a big-budget international production, he was excited.
Surprised by the Scale of Indian Filmmaking
Kai admitted he had been naive about the scope and scale of Indian filmmaking. He expected something smaller than Hollywood. Instead, he encountered massive production budgets, elaborate set pieces, and an enormous crew.
The experience opened his eyes to how global the film industry truly is. Bollywood and other Indian film industries are capable of producing large-scale projects that rival major Hollywood productions in size and spectacle.
For Kai, this was both humbling and inspiring. It showed him that opportunity and creativity exist far beyond what many Americans typically see.
Navigating Language Barriers on Set
Another challenge Kai faced was language. He only speaks English, while many people on set spoke multiple languages fluently.
Rather than being a limitation, this became a lesson in communication. Directors and crew members often used gestures, pantomiming, and physical demonstration to help Kai understand what was required during complex action sequences.
Bodybuilding had already trained Kai to be highly aware of his body. That awareness helped him adapt quickly to choreography and direction, even without sharing a common language with everyone on set.
The experience reinforced something Kai often talks about: growth happens when you step outside your comfort zone.
Kai Greene Reacts to “Indian Kai Greene”
During the episode, Kai was also asked about the viral figure known as “Indian Kai Greene,” a man who emulates Kai’s hairstyle and stage presence.
Kai’s reaction was simple and genuine.
“He wears my hairstyle better than I do,” he joked.
But beyond the humor, Kai found the imitation deeply humbling. He understands that imitation is often a sign of inspiration. Someone saw his career, his physique, and his artistic posing style, and felt moved to replicate it.
For Kai, this mirrors his own journey. He was once the young athlete looking up to legends like Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sergio Oliva. Now, he is the one being imitated.
It serves as a reminder that bodybuilding is generational. Each era builds on the last.
Kai Greene on Sergio Oliva Jr.
Another important topic in the episode was Sergio Oliva Jr., son of Golden Era legend Sergio Oliva.
Kai referred to Sergio Jr. as the “original Simba” of bodybuilding. The comparison is fitting. He is the son of one of the most iconic physiques in history. Carrying that legacy is not easy.
Kai acknowledged that Sergio Oliva Jr. has faced personal struggles related to his father’s legacy. Living in the shadow of a three-time Mr. Olympia creates immense pressure.
However, Kai believes Sergio Jr. still has the potential to bring something impactful and game-changing to modern bodybuilding. He sees untapped potential and hopes that Sergio can harness his own identity within the sport.
Legacy can be heavy. But it can also be powerful.
Lightning Round: Personal Reflections and Life Lessons
The episode closed with a lightning round of deeper, more personal questions.
Did Kai Ever Make Peace with His Mother?
One listener referenced Kai Greene’s song “It Comes Back Around” under his musical alias KI Afro King. The song tells the story of a little boy separated from his mother. Years later, he becomes a parent himself, facing similar challenges.
Kai explained the meaning behind the lyrics. The twist in the story is that when life “comes back around,” the grown child is not fully prepared either. Just like his parents weren’t.
When asked directly about his relationship with his mother, Kai offered a thoughtful but guarded response.
“We’re still sorting that out.”
He said he would like to believe people can make peace with those they need to. Sometimes that peace comes in unexpected forms. His answer reflected both hope and realism.
Lessons from His Coaches: George Farah and Oscar Ardon
Kai also spoke about two influential coaches in his career: George Farah and Oscar Ardon.
He described George Farah as one of the biggest and most positive influences on his life. Their working relationship helped elevate Kai’s career to new levels.
Before that, Oscar Ardon guided Kai when he was very young. At that stage, Kai needed structure and accountability. Oscar helped him recognize his role in shaping his own future.
The key lesson Kai took from both coaches was responsibility.
Coaches, training partners, and family can guide you. But at the end of the day, you are your own coach. The most important progress happens when you hold yourself accountable, even when no one is watching.
That mindset, according to Kai, can transform your life.
If You Could Only Train One Body Part for Six Months
The final question was classic bodybuilding fun: if Kai Greene could only train one body part for six months, what would it be?
His answer was not chest, back, or legs – it would be his mind.
Kai explained that muscles can always come back. Physical size fluctuates. But the mind controls everything. Discipline, focus, resilience, and creativity all start there.
If you strengthen your mind, you change your trajectory.
Wrap Up
This episode of the Kai Greene Effect showcased why Kai Greene remains one of the most thoughtful voices in bodybuilding.
On the Hadi Choopan controversy, he chose caution over outrage. He emphasized context, risk, and the complexity of living under an oppressive government. He reminded listeners that silence does not automatically equal endorsement.
On his India film experience, he showed curiosity and humility. On Sergio Oliva Jr., he spoke about legacy and potential. On his personal life, he shared just enough to be real without oversharing.
And on training, he came back to the same core belief that has defined his career: mastery of the mind is everything.
In a sport often defined by size and spectacle, Kai Greene continues to bring depth.
