The Arnold Classic is one of the most prestigious bodybuilding competitions in the world – second only to Mr. Olympia in terms of significance. Each year, the best of the best gather in Columbus, Ohio, to battle it out for the title and cement their legacy among bodybuilding’s elite. But… who’s going to win it all? Let’s get into this…
With the 2025 Arnold Classic happening as we speak – bodybuilding fans are asking the same question they ask every year: Who’s going to win The Arnold?
This year’s lineup is stacked with former champions, Olympia contenders and rising stars – making this year’s competition fiercer than ever…
And with the list of big names that have taken home the gold – that really says something.
Since its inception in 1989 – the Arnold Classic has crowned some of the greatest bodybuilders in history. Legends like Ronnie Coleman, Jay Cutler, Dexter Jackson and Kai Greene have all hoisted the trophy – etching their names into the sport’s history books.
A Legacy of Champions: The Arnold Classic’s Greatest Winners
- Ronnie Coleman (2001) – Before his reign as an eight-time Mr. Olympia, Coleman dominated the Arnold Classic.
- Jay Cutler (2002, 2003) – A future Olympia legend, Cutler set the stage for his career with back-to-back Arnold wins.
- Dexter Jackson (5-Time Winner) – No one has won more Arnold Classic titles than Dexter “The Blade” Jackson, whose insane conditioning and longevity made him a dominant force.
- Kai Greene (2016, 2010, 2009) – One of the most artistic and unique competitors, Greene’s three Arnold Classic wins solidified his place in bodybuilding history.
Last year, Hadi Choopan presented an incredible physique to the world – winning the 2024 Arnold Classic – showcasing a perfect blend of mass, symmetry and aesthetics.
However, Hadi is opting NOT to defend his title in 2025…
Opting, instead, to concentrate on preparing for the Olmpia.
Which is weird, because Samson Douda, the 2024 Mr. Olympia WILL be competing in the Arnold Classic.
Either way, there’s going to be a stacked lineup in 2025 – but…
Who’s ACTUALLY going to win The Arnold this year?
The 2025 Arnold Classic Competitors: Breaking Down the Contenders
This year’s Arnold Classic lineup features a mix of former champions, Olympia winners, and rising stars. Let’s break down the top contenders:
1. Samson Dauda – Mr. O & Former Arnold Classic Champion
The 2023 Arnold Classic winner and the current Mr. Olympia – Samson Dauda returns to defend his title. With his perfect structure, round muscle bellies and insane conditioning – Dauda has proven he can go toe-to-toe with the best and win.
If he brings the same package to Columbus as he brought tot he Olympia – he could go back-to-back in his big wins.
2. Brandon Curry – Two-Time Arnold Classic Winner
A former Mr. Olympia (2019) and two-time Arnold Classic champion (2019, 2022)… Brandon Curry is always a threat. Known for his insane muscle fullness and balanced physique – Curry has the experience and pedigree to claim a third Arnold title…
But will he bring Olympia-level conditioning this time around?
3. Derek Lunsford – Former Mr. O With An Axe To Grind
Derek Lunsford made history in 2023 by winning the Mr. Olympia title – becoming the first-ever competitor to move from 212 to Open and take the crown. His tight waist, incredible conditioning and perfect balance make him a serious contender.
If Lunsford competes at his Olympia best – he might just add an Arnold Classic win to his résumé.
Dark Horses & More
4. William Bonac – Two-Time Arnold Classic Winner
A true veteran of the sport – William Bonac won the Arnold Classic in 2018 and 2020. With dense muscle maturity and insane conditioning – Bonac has consistently placed among the top at major shows.
If he can regain his peak form – he could surprise everyone and grab a third title.
5. Shaun Clarida – “The Giant Killer”
The two-time 212 Olympia champion – Shaun Clarida is one of the smallest but most conditioned competitors in the lineup. Known as “The Giant Killer” – Clarida thrives in Open competitions – out-conditioning and out-detailing bigger competitors.
If the bigger guys miss their peak, Clarida could shock the world.
6. Andrew Jacked – The Dark Horse
With aesthetic lines, crazy structure and incredible muscle fullness – Andrew Jacked is a serious wildcard. If he nails his conditioning – he has the tools to push the top names and even win his first major title.
7. James Hollingshead, Justin Rodriguez, Akim Williams – Mass Monsters
These three competitors bring sheer size and density to the stage. If any of them come in peaked and dry – they could disrupt the top placings. Akim Williams, in particular, has crazy thickness and muscle maturity – making him the ultimate dark horse in this battle.
So… Who’s Going to Win The Arnold?
With such an elite lineup – predicting a winner isn’t easy.
However, here’s how we see the top contenders stack up:
🏆 Samson Dauda – If he matches or improves his 2024 Olympia package – he could see another gold medal on his mantle.
🥈 Derek Lunsford – If he brings his Olympia-level form – he could dominate the lineup.
🥉 Brandon Curry – A former Arnold champ – but will he bring Olympia-caliber conditioning?
The battle for the 2025 Arnold Classic title is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in years!
So…
Who’s going to win The Arnold?
We’ll find out soon when these champions step on stage in Columbus, Ohio!
The Arnold Classic has produced some of the most legendary champions in bodybuilding history – and 2025 promises to be another epic showdown.
Whether it’s a returning champ like Samson Dauda, an Olympia winner like Derek Lunsford or a dark horse like Andrew Jacked…
The only thing we know for sure is that we’re in for a f**king show!
Stay tuned for competition updates, analysis and results as we get closer to the 2025 Arnold Classic!
“Strength does not come from winning. Your struggles develop your strengths. When you go through hardships and decide not to surrender, that is strength.” – Arnold Schwarzenegger
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