“Going to Upset Some People”: Flex Wheeler Predicts Surprising Results for Arnold Classic 2023

Flex Wheeler is among the most famous bodybuilders of the 90s. Known for his muscular but symmetrical physique, the bodybuilding legend has a wealth of experience as a competitor. On March 2, the Sultan of Symmetry appeared on the Olympia TV YouTube channel for a discussion with Bob Cicherillo, Wendy Fortino, and Camile Periat. Near the end of the conversation, host Terrick El Guindy asked all his guests to give the audience their predictions for the upcoming Arnold Classic 2023.

Former bodybuilder turned announced Bob Cicherillo went first and picked his top three. Camile Periat and Wendy Fortino gave their predictions, and finally, Wheeler decided on his top three. While the three agreed with Cicherillo, Flex Wheeler made a surprising claim.

The wild card of Men’s Open bodybuilding according to Flex Wheeler

During the conversation, Terrick El Guindy pointed out how Bob Cicherillo’s prediction for the 2022 Mr. Olympia turned out to be right. He then asked the former bodybuilder to announce his top three picks for the Arnold Classic. “This is going to be tough one,” said Cicherillo. However, after some deliberation, Cicherillo picked “Mr. Consistent,” Nick Walker, to win it all at the Arnold Classic.

He also picked the newcomers Samson Dauda and Arndew Jacked for the other two spots in the top three. However, Cicherillo said Dauda and Jacked could win the show if they came in at their “hundred percent.” However, Cicherillo second doubted himself. According to Cicherillo, the newcomers are yet to “nail” their prep. While the others agreed, Flex Wheeler couldn’t count out a fourth name.

“It’s not agreeing with Bob, it’s just that it’s right… but what I will say… the Giant Killer is going to upset some people,” Flex Wheeler said. “I think he’s going to give a battle for the top three,” added the three-time Mr. Olmypia runner-up. Wheeler also believes Clarida is “almost like Mr. Consistent, like Nick. That’s going to be a beautiful trade-off.”

Shaun Clarida has generated a lot of hype

Reigning 212 Mr. Olympia, Shaun Clarida has generated immense hype going into the Arnold Classic. The two-time 212 champ earned the name Giant Killer when he defeated open bodybuilders like Sergio Oliva Jr. and Regan Grims at the IFBB Legion Sports Fest. This is also the reigning champion’s first Arnold Classic and his first time competing against the titans of Men’s Open bodybuilding.

Unlike former 212 bodybuilders like current Mr. Olympia Hadi Choopan and last year’s runner-up Derek Lunsford, Clarida had never weighed more than 185 lbs. While he has put on a lot of muscle for the Arnold Classic, he’ll compete against bodybuilders like Big Ramy, who clocks in at over 300 lbs during the off-season. However, like Flex Wheeler, many believe Clarida’s experience, conditioning, and proportions could give him the upper hand.

Read More | When, Where and How to Watch Arnold Classic 2023?

What did you think about the bodybuilding legend’s prediction? Do you think Shaun Clarida can pull off an award-winning performance? Let us know in the comments.

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