Samson Dauda, a prominent figure in bodybuilding, is making significant changes to his preparations for the upcoming 2024 Arnold Classic-UK show. In a recent YouTube video, he provided fans with updates on his progress and detailed the reasons behind his decision to part ways with his coach, Milos Sarcev.
For over two years, Dauda and Sarcev had collaborated closely to bring their best performances to the stage. In 2023, Dauda’s remarkable third-place finish at the Mr. Olympia, behind Hadi Choopan and champion Derek Lunsford, shocked the bodybuilding world. This success propelled Dauda to further victories at the 2023 Romania Muscle Fest Pro and EVLS Prague Pro.
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Despite facing health challenges that nearly sidelined him from the 2024 Arnold Classic UK event, Dauda managed to recover swiftly. However, his journey took an unexpected turn as he decided to part ways with his long-time coach, Sarcev. Dauda now emphasizes the importance of achieving dryer conditioning for future success in the Open class, acknowledging the need for new strategies amidst his competitive pursuits.
Samson Dauda Insights on Leaving Milos Sarcev & Prep for 2024 Arnold Classic-UK Show
Dauda openly acknowledges that his intense preparations for the Arnold UK have left him feeling exhausted, hungry, and fatigued.
“Exhausted, tired, hungry, all of the above,” said Samson Dauda. “That’s prepping.”
Dauda cited the need for ‘new input’ as the reason for his decision. However, he credited Sarcev for aiding his ascent to the top of the Open class.
“Nothing really happened man, I’ve been working with Milos for two and a half years. He got me to where I am right now. I have a lot of respect and pride for him. Thank you so much man, we have come a long way together and you pushed me to this level and I’m really prideful for it. Me and Milos, we have a personal relationship man, it’s not just a coach and athlete relationship, there is more to it than that.”
“It’s not a light decision. It’s not a light decision, okay, you know what, that took a lot out of me to even come to that decision. I was speaking to him about it, we are at a point now where no matter how much we bring, they want just a bit more.”
“We’ve done how many shows frequently back to back now. And for what they are asking for, we haven’t just quite nailed it yet. So, it’s like okay, you know what, we have to be open-minded to the idea okay, we need a new input to it. Now, it’s a different thing if I get a different coach and say hey give me your thoughts, but it doesn’t work that way,” said Samson Dauda.
With size taking a backseat, Dauda aims to enhance his detail and conditioning levels.
“This is at a point where it’s like we have to sort of see if we can find another method and try something that will actually work for me. I don’t need to put on size anymore. Milos has done that with me. In terms of bringing that fine minute details and that last bit to the stage, we need someone that is going to be more expert on that. He taught me how to put on size year after year, how to grow very fast in a short amount of time. I have nothing but thanks to give him for that.”
He emphasizes that achieving Olympia-winning conditioning necessitated this change.
“Now, in terms of bringing in that nailing Olympia-winning conditioning, you’re going to need somebody else to input that, someone else to bring an eye to that. I think we both understood that. Yeah, it’s time for that kind of change to happen,” explains Samson Dauda.
Dauda disclosed that he hasn’t pursued a new coach and will now rely on his wife, Marlena, who has assisted him with preparations previously.
“I put it this way, you break up with a girlfriend and have another one lined up, it doesn’t work that way. There’s emotional parts involved in it. It’s very silly and it’s a stupid way of thinking.”
“It’s a big enough decision, the last thing you’re going to throw in the mix of that is okay, now I need another coach. I need to go find another one to jump in the next few days. No. It doesn’t happen.”
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Also, he noted that Marlena had assisted him with preparations for the Romania and Prague shows last year.
“We did the Olympia together. Milos was there, hands on the ground. He did the Olympia with me last year. When we came back home, we decided to do Romania and Prague. Milos was still in the US. There’s something to be said, there is only so much you can pick up from videos and stuff like that, especially when it’s close like peak week.”
“Mel has been with me the whole time. People that know my history know that Mel was the one who not even coached me but literally brought me into the sport and she worked with me through my whole amateur. She coached me through all of that, she turned me into a Pro.”
Following Samson Dauda’s defeat to Choopan at the Arnold Classic Ohio, discussions have arisen about his future in the sport. Notably, Judge Terrick El Guindy and Chris Cormier offered him advice, highlighting his significance as a beacon of hope for British bodybuilding.
Set to unfold from March 15-17 in Birmingham, England, the 2024 Arnold Classic UK bodybuilding show awaits. Fans eagerly anticipate whether Dauda can showcase enhanced conditioning in his rematch against Hadi Choopan.
You can watch the complete video on the Fouad Abiad Media YouTube channel below:
Overview
Bodybuilder Samson Dauda is undergoing significant changes in preparation for the 2024 Arnold Classic-UK show. Following his departure from coach Milos Sarcev, he now relies on his wife for guidance. Despite health challenges, Dauda remains determined, with fans eagerly anticipating his performance in the upcoming competition.
Featured Image @Samson Dauda Talks 2024 Arnold Classic Uk, @samson_dauda, @gilcoproductions (Instagram)
