Mike Katz

Who is Mike Katz?

Michael Katz is a former American IFBB professional bodybuilder and former professional football player with the New York Jets, most famous for his appearance with Arnold Schwarzenegger in the 1977 bodybuilding documentary film Pumping Iron.

Katz attended Southern Connecticut State College, graduating in 1966. He worked as a Jr. High School gym teacher while training as an amateur bodybuilder. Katz cited bullying in his youth, for being Jewish and wearing glasses, as inspiration for weight training. He was known for his role as the underdog in the 1975 Mr. Universe competition, where, he refused to give up on himself despite placing 4th place in the Tall division. Katz later went professional and qualified for the 1976 Mr. Olympia, placing 2nd in the heavyweight division in what was considered his peak form.

Mike Katz was also a pro football player with the New York Jets before ending his NFL career with a leg injury in 1968.

Katz appeared in the documentary Challenging Impossibility, commenting on the weightlifting odyssey of spiritual teacher and peace advocate Sri Chinmoy. The film was an Official Selection of the 2011 Tribeca Film Festival.