By Bt Stew Dexter Jackson will receive one of bodybuilding’s newest major honors when he is inducted into the International Sports Hall of Fame on September 26, 2026. The ceremony, scheduled during Olympia Weekend in Las Vegas, recognizes Jackson’s remarkable competitive longevity, record-setting career, and continued contributions to the fitness community.
Key takeaways
- Jackson will be inducted on September 26, 2026, at the Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas.
- He joins the Harlem Globetrotters, Forrest Griffin, Garry Kasparov, and Vitomir Maricic in the 2026 class.
- The ceremony is free to the public.
- Jackson becomes the seventh Mr. Olympia winner recognized by the Hall of Fame.
The induction adds another distinction to a career defined by consistency, professionalism, and an enduring connection with fans. Although Jackson retired from the Olympia stage in 2020, he continues to train, promote bodybuilding, and represent the sport internationally.
A landmark career for “The Blade”
Known as “The Blade,” Jackson is widely regarded as the winningest male bodybuilder in IFBB Pro League history. His career extended for more than two decades, during which he became known for polished conditioning, longevity, and the ability to remain competitive across multiple generations of athletes.
Jackson’s most celebrated achievement came when he defeated Jay Cutler to win the Mr. Olympia title. That victory took place at Las Vegas’ Orleans Arena, the same venue scheduled to host the 2026 Olympia finals. The return to the arena is expected to carry special significance for Jackson as he attends the event as a respected former champion rather than a competitor.
Continuing to build bodybuilding’s future
Jackson remains active beyond competition. He regularly shares training content, operates a growing supplement business, and helps provide opportunities for athletes through the Dexter Jackson Classic bodybuilding show.
His ongoing presence reflects a broader role as an ambassador for bodybuilding. Jackson has said that he is comfortable watching the sport’s current stars while continuing to train for himself and support the next generation.
A notable Hall of Fame class
Jackson’s induction will place him alongside a diverse group of sports icons, including the Harlem Globetrotters, UFC standout Forrest Griffin, chess champion Garry Kasparov, and elite freediver Vitomir Maricic.
He will be the seventh Mr. Olympia winner inducted into the International Sports Hall of Fame. The group also includes Arnold Schwarzenegger, Franco Columbu, Lee Haney, Ronnie Coleman, Jay Cutler, and Phil Heath. With Jackson’s addition, those recognized Mr. Olympia champions represent 59 combined Olympia titles.
Ceremony details
The induction ceremony is scheduled for Saturday, September 26, 2026, in the Grand Ballroom at the Palms Casino Resort. The event is set to run from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and will be open to the public at no charge.
For Jackson, the honor recognizes much more than a trophy-filled résumé. His longevity, conduct, entrepreneurial work, and dedication to bodybuilding have helped make him one of the sport’s most recognizable figures. Even with another major accolade ahead, he continues to present himself as the same dedicated athlete and “regular dude” fans have followed throughout his career.
