As the 2024 Arnold Classic approaches, anticipation mounts for the showdown in Columbus, Ohio. Furthermore, this article delves into the 2024 Arnold Classic Men’s-Open division, highlighting top contenders and dark horses.
Additionally, this year marks the 35th edition of the prestigious Arnold Classic. Moreover, since its inception in 1989, the competition has been a cornerstone of the bodybuilding world. Champions like Jay Cutler and Dexter Jackson have left an indelible mark on its storied history.
Furthermore, in the 2023 Arnold Classic, Samson Dauda emerged triumphant. Also, defeating notable rivals such as Nick Walker and Andrew Jacked, Dauda claimed the coveted title. Now, he returns to defend his championship against formidable opponents.
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Moreover, among Dauda’s challengers is Hadi Choopan, the former 2022 Mr. Olympia winner. Furthermore, Choopan is renowned for his exceptional conditioning, making him a formidable threat on the Arnold Classic stage. Additionally, the event will showcase talent from around the globe, adding to the anticipation.
2024 Arnold Classic Men’s-Open Bodybuilding Competitors Lineup
- Remeco Bose
- Rafael Brandao
- Hadi Choopan
- Samson Dauda
- Marcello De Angelis
- Jonathan De La Rosa
- James Hollingshead
- Andrew Jacked (Withdrawn)
- Rubiel Mosquera (Out due to visa issues)
- Justin Rodriguez
- Mohamed Shaaban
- Antoine Valliant
- Akim Williams
2024 Arnold Classic Men’s-Open Breakdown of Top Contenders
Samson Dauda
Dauda, the reigning 2023 Arnold Classic champion, is preparing for a showdown against his rival Choopan. Also, he’s had consecutive wins at the Romania Muscle Fest Pro and EVLS Prague Pro, along with a third-place finish at the Olympia, establishing himself as a formidable contender. Moreover, his activity, size, and attention to detail set him apart on the roster.
Recently sharing the Olympia stage with Choopan, Dauda eyes the upcoming Arnold Classic. He sees it as a chance to solidify his top contender status for Derek Lunsford’s title in October. Notably, his consistent improvement in physique updates reflects his relentless drive and potential dominance in the sport.
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Hadi Choopan
This event marks Hadi Choopan’s debut at the Arnold Classic and his first non-Mr. Olympia competition in the US. Also, known for his exceptional dry conditioning and muscularity, Choopan aims to clinch a gold trophy in Ohio, a feat he missed out on in his last Olympia appearance. However, despite battling Derek Lunsford in the finals, he secured the runner-up spot to his teammate.
Many speculate that Choopan enters the Arnold Classic with a sense of determination, fueled by his recent loss to Lunsford. Also, some attribute this to his decision to walk off stage during Lunsford’s victory. A win in Ohio would bring him closer to reclaiming the Sandow trophy at the upcoming October competition.
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Rafael Brandao
One of the frontrunners is Brazil’s Rafael Brandao, whose symmetry, shape, and completeness give him a clear edge. Moreover, Brandao has a history of competing at the highest level, with victories at events like the 2022 Arnold Classic South America.
In his last competition, Brandao secured 10th place at the highly competitive 2022 Mr. Olympia won by Choopan. Furthermore, despite a setback from Dengue Fever, Brandao returns refreshed and with added size. As an IFBB Pro with a strong reputation in Brazil, all signs suggest Brandao will bring his best.
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Marcello De Angelis
Marcello De Angelis, widely known as ‘Horse MD,’ has recently made significant progress in both size and detail. Also, trained by Milos Sarcev, MD’s proportions, conditioning, and vascularity set him apart on stage, particularly since transitioning from the Classic Physique division to the Open class.
In his latest competition, Angelis clinched third place at the 2023 Romania Muscle Fest Pro, where he faced formidable opponents like Samson Dauda and Behrooz Tabani. However, despite settling for third, Horse MD surpassed high-profile contenders such as Nathan De Asha and Andrea Presti in the process.
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James Hollingshead
James Hollingshead aims to make up for lost time after utilizing 2022 as an extended off-season to refine his physique. Additionally, with his towering stature and immense strength, Hollingshead’s density poses a challenge for many formidable competitors.
Sneak-peek progress photos suggest that ‘The Shed’ is presenting one of his most impressive packages yet. Notably, With remarkable hamstring development and a substantial chest, Hollingshead has the potential to surprise the bodybuilding world if he perfects his peak condition. Also, this will mark his debut at the Arnold Classic competition.
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Jonathan De La Rosa
Jonathan De La Rosa is poised to ascend the Men’s Open ranks with a standout performance in Ohio. Moreover, with over a decade of experience as an IFBB Pro, De La Rosa brings seasoned confidence to the stage. Also, fans have dubbed him a wildcard due to the significant size he’s gained in the past season, adding intrigue to the upcoming event.
In the previous year, De La Rosa garnered attention with back-to-back second-place finishes at the 2023 Chicago Pro and the Tampa Pro. Also, battle-tested and determined, De La Rosa sets his sights on making a strong impression in the first call-out.
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2024 Arnold Classic Dark Horses
Antoine Vaillant
Antoine Vaillant, a formidable contender in the Men’s Open, aims for a top podium spot. Renowned for his dynamic stage presence and flawless posing skills, the Canadian native consistently outshines rivals. Overcoming a mysterious heart condition, Vaillant has refocused his career and training, resulting in significant aesthetic improvements.
His last appearance was at the 2022 Mr. Olympia, where he failed to crack the top 15. Determined to move past this setback, he meticulously sculpted his physique to rival some of the industry’s most esteemed athletes.
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Mohamed Shaaban
Mohamed Shaaban, an experienced Pro and veteran of bodybuilding, sets his sights on ambitious goals for the 2024 Arnold Classic. Moreover, with time spent refining his physique away from the stage, Shaaban aims to reaffirm his presence as a formidable competitor in the Men’s Open class.
Known for his impeccable proportions and symmetry, Shaaban’s last appearance was at the 2022 Mr. Olympia, where he placed outside the top 15. However, he secured a victory at the 2022 Toronto Pro Supershow. Despite minimal online presence, Shaaban has the potential to emerge as a dark horse and make a significant impact on stage.
![Mohammad Shabban posing](https://colosseumstrength.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Mohammad-Shabban-posing.png)
Akim Williams
Akim ‘The Beast’ Williams, though contemplating retirement in the next two to three years, maintains an unwavering commitment to his training regimen. At the 2023 Arnold Classic, he showcased his prowess by securing a commendable sixth place finish amidst a formidable lineup, all while nursing an injured shoulder.
In addition, following successful surgery and a full recovery, Williams anticipates an even more formidable presence when he next takes the stage against the division’s elite. Also, his remarkable sixth-place finish last year underscores his potential as a viable contender for the first call-out, making it unwise to underestimate his capabilities.
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Justin Rodriguez
Justin Rodriguez, accustomed to the spotlight, prepares for his imminent return. Notably, renowned for his frequent appearances and unwavering stage presence, Rodriguez has reached as high as fourth place at the Arnold Classic. Furthermore, when his conditioning aligns with his muscular density, he poses a formidable challenge for his competitors.
Furthermore, at the 2023 Legion Sports Fest Pro, Rodriguez secured third place, trailing John Jewett and champion Charles Griffen. Notably, with ample time for refinement, fans eagerly await Rodriguez’s anticipated comeback and anticipate a stellar performance.
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Here is a chronological list of Arnold Classic champions since 1989:
- 1989 – Rich Gaspari
- 1990 – Mike Ashley
- 1991 – Shawn Ray
- 1992 – Vince Taylor
- 1993 – Flex Wheeler
- 1994 – Kevin Levrone
- 1995 – Michael Francois
- 1996 – Kevin Levrone
- 1997 – Flex Wheeler
- 1998 – Flex Wheeler
- 1999 – Nasser El Sonbaty
- 2000 – Flex Wheeler
- 2001 – Ronnie Coleman
- 2002 – Jay Cutler
- 2003 – Jay Cutler
- 2004 – Jay Cutler
- 2005 – Dexter Jackson
- 2006 – Dexter Jackson
- 2007 – Victor Martinez
- 2008 – Dexter Jackson
- 2009 – Kai Greene
- 2010 – Kai Greene
- 2011 – Branch Warren
- 2012 – Branch Warren
- 2013 – Dexter Jackson
- 2014 – Dennis Wolf
- 2015 – Dexter Jackson
- 2016 – Kai Greene
- 2017 – Cedric McMillan
- 2018 – William Bonac
- 2019 – Brandon Curry
- 2020 – William Bonac
- 2021 – Nick Walker
- 2022 – Brandon Curry
Samson Dauda won the 2023 Arnold Classic.
Catch all the bodybuilding action in Columbus, Ohio from February 29 to March 3. Moreover, Arnold Schwarzenegger himself has confirmed that the livestream will be available for free on the official Arnold Sports Website.
Stay tuned for premium coverage of all the competitions by our team at Colosseum Strength. Also, from pre-judging rounds to the finals, join us as we witness history in the making!
Overview
The 2024 Arnold Classic Men’s-open in Columbus, Ohio approaches, featuring top contenders like Samson Dauda, Hadi Choopan, and Rafael Brandao. Furthermore, as the 35th edition of the prestigious event, it promises fierce competition and potential dark horses like Jonathan De La Rosa and Antoine Vaillant. Also, Stay tuned for free livestream coverage on the Arnold Sports Website, providing premium insights from February 29 to March 3, courtesy of Colosseum Strength.
Featured Image @2024 Arnold Classic , @hadi_choopan, @horse.md, @samson_dauda, @rafabrandaopro (Instagram)