“Protect Innocent People”: Arnold Schwarzenegger Increases Ukrainian Bodybuilders Prize Money Equal to The Winner, in a Heartwarming Gesture

Retired bodybuilder Arnold Schwarzenegger never fails to make the news. He first made the news as a revolutionary bodybuilder who gave the sport a new social standing. He then went on to become the famous, ideal action hero, dominating the box office for years. Subsequently, Schwarzenegger became the Governor of California, once again making headlines. However, after his tenure as the Governor ended, he was in news, yet again, although it was a piece of infamous news this time around.

His generosity is the latest reason behind the 7x Mr. Olympia champion making the headlines again. The ‘Austrian Oak’ had a special present for the Ukrainian bodybuilder who finished in 2nd place at this year’s Arnold Classic.

Arnold Schwarzenegger made a special gesture for Ukranian bodybuilder

The 2022 Arnold Strongman Classic was a special event. Not only did it see a Russian and a Ukrainian compete side by side, but it also witnessed a heartwarming moment from Arnold Schwarzenegger. And the gesture was directed toward bodybuilder Oleksii Novikov. The Ukrainian finished 2nd in this year’s tournament and wanted to put his cash prize to good use. Novikov had plans of donating the $25,000 prize money to equip Ukrainian civilians with much-needed body armor.

But Schwarzenegger stepped in and made a special announcement. He said, “I just want to tell you that I know that you have to go back to Ukraine to fight and to risk your life.” Schwarzenegger also said because of the selfishness and courage that Novikov showed, he wanted to do something special. “Take the cash money that you’re making here today and donate it to buy body armor, to protect innocent people in Ukraine.”

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Arnold added, “I just want you to know that we are going to award you not the regular cash prize as the second place winner, but you will be awarded the same cash prize that the winner gets, so you can donate that money for body armor when you go back”. The announcement means that besides the $25,000, Schwarzenegger will donate the difference ($55,000) from his side.

One of the most generous personalities

Coming from humble beginnings, Arnold understands the meaning of struggle and hard work. The former bodybuilder had to face many adversities before making it big in his sport. Naturally, he gives back to the society, in his own way, supporting the efforts of others and tries his best to help them out.

His co-actor in ‘Kindergarten Cop’ once called Arnold “generous to a fault”. The bodybuilder-actor did not take his $175,000 per year salary and donated it all to charity. He is also involved with the after-school program called After-School All-Stars. He is so invested in the idea that Schwarzenegger once even paid $20,000 to ship a special consignment over to the US as part of the campaign. 

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Much like his stardom, Arnold’s generosity knows no bounds. Schwarzenegger is always on the lookout for opportunities to give back to the community. The Austrian immigrant is a prime example of not letting one’s success get to their head.