Top 5 Contenders for the 2024 Arnold Classic Title

Gear up, fitness enthusiasts! The buzz for the Arnold Classic 2024 is built, and we’re here to spill the details. From March 1st to 3rd, 2024, Columbus, Ohio – the stage is set for bodybuilding brilliance. The countdown has begun. From powerhouse Samson Dauda to the determined Hadi Choopan, the Open Division promises jaw-dropping feats. Meanwhile, the Classic Division boasts rising star Michael Daboul and seasoned champ Terrence Ruffin. It’s a journey through muscle, passion, and the pursuit of bodybuilding glory – buckle up for the Arnold Classic thrill!

The Top Five Formidable Athletes in Open Division

Samson Dauda: 2023 was undeniably Samson Dauda’s year, kicking off with a victory at the Arnold Classic and securing a bronze at the Mr. Olympia. His triumph continued with wins at the Romanian Pro and EVLS Prague Pro, making him a force to be reckoned with. Not just his coach Milos Sarcev is confident about his win Jay Cutler’s confidence in Dauda’s success adds an extra layer of anticipation to his win at the 2024 Arnold Classic.

 

In a podcast snippet, Cutler boldly stated, “Samson wins all day long.” He went into detail about physique intricacies, stressing the significance of proportion, shape, and symmetry. Cutler recognized the possible size difference between the two athletes and highlighted the importance of overall appeal. While giving credit to Hadi as a strong contender, Cutler remained firm in his stance, affirming, “I love Hadi… but seriously, Samson dominates the show right now.” However, the current Mr. Olympia has a different opinion. According to Derek Lunsford, Choopan will win the show.

Hadi Choopan: One must not forget the Persian Wolf, who eagerly wanted to win this title. Former Mr. Olympia Hadi Choopan is set to make waves in 2024, fueled by determination following his loss to Derek Lunsford. With plans to conquer the Arnold Classic, Choopan aims to replicate the winning package he brought to the Olympia stage, leaving fans eager to witness his potential victory.

Marcello De Angelis: Former Mr. Universe champ, Marcello De Angelis, aka Horse MD, isn’t one to rest on his laurels. Securing titles like Panamericano and Sulamericano, along with four Brasileiro golds, he earned his Pro Card in 2021, but the Classic Physique division’s weight cut wasn’t his vibe. Muscle contest Brazil saw him a bit heavy at 104.8kg, three more than allowed. Decision time. July 2022, and boom, Horse MD makes a move to the Men’s Open, gearing up for his debut.

This Brazilian powerhouse holds a rich record, snagging four Brasileiro golds and a Pro card in 2021. Stepping into the Men’s Open, he’s no rookie, impressing at the 2019 Amateur Olympia South America (3rd place) and owning the 2019 Worldwide Amateur Olympia Brazil.  Moreover, in 2023 at the EVLS Prague Pro, he rocked the stage, leaving Olympia contender Nathan De Asha in the dust. Third place, trailing only Behrooz Tabani and winner Samson Dauda, Horse M.D.’s debut promises to shake up the 2024 Arnold Classic with his classic lines and full-muscle vibe.

Rafael Brandao: Brandao, a rising star in the Men’s Open IFBB Pro League, caught attention for his balanced physique after winning bronze at the 2020 Europa Pro Championships. Health hiccups delayed his Mr. Olympia debut that year. A standout moment was his 2021 win at the Romania Muscle Fest Pro, besting competitors like Samson Dauda. Despite health setbacks, he clinched gold at the Arnold Classic South America. Would he defeat the Nigerian Lion and make history repeat by defeating the reigning champion?

James Hollingshead: Hollingshead often likened to the real-life Kratos, stands out as a unique figure in bodybuilding. The 33-year-old British IFBB Pro gained attention for his roles in Pumped Fiction and Man Up. Hollingshead’s potential entry into the 2024 Arnold Classic adds excitement.

Adding to the intrigue is Rubiel ‘Neckzilla’ Mosquera, who surprised fans with a remarkable third-place finish in his Pro debut at the 2023 EVLS Prague Pro. His unexpected entry into the upcoming competition sparks curiosity about his future performances. Now let’s dive into the second most popular category in bodybuilding which is Classic Physique.

The Top Five in Classic Physique Division

Michael Daboul: A Rising Force
Kicking off our list is Michael Daboul, a force to be reckoned with in the classic physique division. His stellar performance in the Arnold Classic USA 2022 and a triumph at the Arnold Classic UK set the stage for an impressive winning streak in 2023. With notable victories at the New York and Pittsburgh Pro Shows, Michael is now eyeing the Arnold Classic 2024 title.

Terrence Ruffin:  Next up, we have the two-time Arnold Classic champion, Terrence Ruffin. Following a remarkable run in 2023 with wins at the Dubai Pro, Legion Sports Fest Pro, and Bharat Pro Show, Terrence is already qualified for the Olympia 2024. After a top 5 finish at the Olympia 2023.

Breon Ansley: Securing the third spot is the 2018 Arnold Classic champion, Breon Ansley. Despite a 4th place finish at the Olympia 2023, Breon is determined to make a statement at the Arnold Classic USA 2024. With past placements in the Arnold Classic 2022 and Olympia 2022.

READ MORE: “Y’all Better Be Ready for It”: Weeks After Pulling Out of Olympia Because of Injury, Nick Walker Makes Predictions for Next Show

Urs Kalecinski: Taking the runner-up position is Urs Kalecinski, a formidable contender in the classic physique division. With a 3rd place finish at the Arnold Classic 2022 and a runner-up spot in 2023, Urs is set to compete for the Arnold Classic USA 2024 title. Having secured a spot at the Olympia 2024, Urs is poised to go head-to-head with the biggest names.

Ramon Dino: And now, the moment we’ve all been waiting for – the defending champion, Ramon Dino, takes the number 1 spot. After securing the Arnold Classic USA title last year and finishing as the runner-up in Olympia 2022 and 2023, Ramon is undoubtedly one of the best in the classic physique division.

The question on everyone’s mind is – can Samson Dauda and Ramon Dino defend their Arnold Classic title and continue their dominance in 2024 or the world will see a new champion?

WATCH THIS STORY: When Will The Arnold Classic 2024 Start And Who Are The Athletes Competing This Year?