Prior to the London 2012 Olympics, I thought Ryan Lochte was the sexiest swimmer out there. Of course, that was before I heard him speak. From his post-race interviews, to his attempt to make his catchphrase “jeah” happen, the 28-year-old Olympian came off as the biggest douche out there. Albeit the sexiest douche, but a douche nonetheless.

It’s only fitting that ESPN and Lochte chose Nirvana’s Nevermind album cover to recreate. Let’s face it, he probably has the same IQ as the baby in the iconic record artwork. That said, he does a pretty good job of copying the image. The only difference is that Ryan is wearing Speedo. Too bad he didn’t fully commit to the project and go au naturel like the baby ;)

“If you look at the baby, he’s definitely happy in the water, and that’s what I am … and he’s chasing after a dollar bill, so he’s always on the grind,” says the swimmer. “Usually, when I go swimming, I have goggles on. So when I didn’t have my goggles on for this shoot my eyes were definitely burning. [Blinks a lot.] Am I blinking a lot? ‘Cause I feel like it. Hopefully everyone’s reaction when they see it, they’ll be like, dang, look at that guy. I honestly think I nailed the shot.” – Ryan Lochte

Lochte was one of many athletes participating in ESPN’s annual music issue. Photographed by Matthias Clamer, several well-known figures covering a wide range of sports posed to emulate their favorite musicians. From Beyonce, Devo, Katy Perry, Michael Jackson and Bob Dylan to everything in between, every genre of music is represented. Check out Ryan’s photo along with a few of my favorites below.

For behind the scenes pics of Lochte’s recreation, click here.

For behind the scenes pics of Josh Freeman’s recreation, click here.

For behind the scenes pics of Alex Morgan’s recreation, click here.

For behind the scenes pics of Allyson Felix’s recreation, click here.

Do you think Ryan nailed the assignment? Are you a fan of Lochte? Which recreation is your favorite? For even more athlete-singer transformations, head over to ESPN’s music issue.