Marcus Haley found sports as a way out of what would have been a tough upbringing.
He spent his formative teen years growing up in foster homes. An outstanding running back and defensive back, Haley earned a scholarship to Dakota Weslayan University, but never completed his studies. Instead he turned his attention to the sport that had given him the most strength, physically and mentally — bodybuilding.
Haley, who had looked up to Shawn Ray and Mike Ashley as a kid, started training at Gold’s gym under the guidance of a local female bodybuilder named Gabby. His first show was the 1997 Golds Gym Classic in Las Vegas, where he placed third as a middleweight. He continued training and continued taking over the USA Bodybuilding/Figure Championships, finally placing first in the super heavyweight division in turn earning his IFBB pro card.
Haley has gone on to place in Mr. North America, Europa Super Show, Arnold Classic and Mr. Olympia events.
