He's very Gay friendly with a Gay brother and respect from his Gay fans. He recently did a long article in Ironman about Gay politics in bodybuilding post Paris. Very interesting.
While there are some differing opinions on the issue, it is said that training hard at a young age, naturally, can stunt growth. I read some detailed articles on it a while back, but I really don't remember the science behind it. It's not absolute, some people will be effected more and some less, just like AAS and stunting growth.
I guess he started early, both parents were into Bodybuildong so that wasnaturally for him. Looking at the 3 pics from 17yars of age I beleeve this was when things were starting to "happen"..