Arnold Classic Men's Open 2024 analysis of the main competitors
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With just a few days to go until the 2024 Arnold Classic, it's the perfect time to take a closer look at some of the top names heading to Columbus, Ohio. This article provides an overview of the men's Open category and highlights the contenders and dark horses as show time approaches.
This season marks the 35th edition of the prestigious Arnold Classic, which has been running successfully since 1989, when Rich Gaspari became its inaugural champion. Over the years, the Arnold Classic has remained a key pillar for many acclaimed bodybuilding careers, with athletes such as Jay Cutler and Dexter Jackson claiming multiple titles.
Samson Dauda reigned supreme at last year's Arnold Classic 2023, beating Nick Walker and Andrew Jacked. He returns with the goal of defending his title, but he will face Hadi Choopan, a former Mr. Olympia 2022 winner who is known for getting in the best shape. But that's not all the event will feature a host of talent from around the world.
2024 Arnold Classic Open bodybuilding competitors list
- Remeco Bose
- Rafael Brandao
- Hadi Choopan
- Samson Dauda
- Marcello De Angelis
- Jonathan De La Rosa
- James Hollingshead
Andrew Jacked*He withdrew his applicationRubiel Mosquera* Withdrew due to visa problems- Justin Rodriguez
- Mohamed Shaaban
- Antoine Valliant
- Akim Williams
Arnold Classic 2024 - breakdown of the main contenders
Samson Dauda
The reigning Arnold Classic 2023 champion intends to close the door on his rival Choopan in just a few days. Dauda, who followed his third place finish at Olympia with wins at the Romania Muscle Fest Pro and EVLS Prague Pro, is easily one of the most dangerous contenders on the roster due to his activity, size and detail.
Having recently shared the podium with Choopan at the last Olympia, Dauda hopes to use this opportunity as a stepping stone to become Derek Lunsford's number one contender in October. If the update on his character is any indication, Dauda seems to be only getting better show by show.
Hadi Choopan
This competition will be Hadi Choopan's first Arnold Classic and his first non-Mr. Olympia competition in the USA. Choopan, who is recognized for his dry conditioning and hard musculature, plans to leave Ohio with a gold trophy, something he failed to do in his last Olympia appearance. He battled with Lunsford in the finals and ultimately earned second place for his teammate.
Many believe that Choopan has had a fallout from the Arnold Classic for quite some time, which was a result of him leaving the podium during Lunsford's recent victory. Should Choopan hoist gold over his head in Ohio, he would be one step closer to reclaiming the Sandow trophy this October.
Rafael Brandao
Brazilian Rafael Brandao is one of the leading players, with his symmetry, shape and completeness giving him a clear advantage against some of his opponents. Brandao is well acquainted with testing at the highest level, having notched up victories at acclaimed events such as the Arnold Classic South America 2022.
At his most recent competition, Brandao secured a 10th place finish at the highly competitive Mr. Olympia 2022 show, which was won by Choopan. Although his progress was slowed by dengue fever, Brandao returns refreshed and with added size. Given his status as an IFBB pro and his reputation in Brazil, all indications are that Brandao will perform at his best.
Marcello De Angelis
Marcello De Angelis, known as "Horse MD", has recently made significant strides in both size and detail. His proportions, conditioning and bloodlines give him a unique advantage on stage. MD, who is trained by Milos Sarcev, has gradually added weight for the Open class after moving up from the Classic Physique division.
In his last competition, Angelis secured third place at the 2023 Romania Muscle Fest Pro, where he measured his strength against such heavyweights as Samson Dauda and Behrooz Tabani. Horse MD settled for third place at that show, beating big names like Nathan De Asha and Andrea Presti.
James Hollingshead
Looking to make up for lost time, James Hollingshead used 2022 as an extended offseason to work on areas of his physique that needed improvement. As one of the tallest and strongest competitors on the roster, Hollingshead's density could spell trouble for some big names.
Courtesy of some progress photos, "The Shed" appears to be delivering one of his most impressive packages to date. Hollingshead boasts an incredible level of hamstrings and a massive chest, and if he can sculpt his top properly he could shock the world. For Hollingshead, this will be the first Arnold Classic competition of his career.
Jonathan De La Rosa
Jonathan De La Rosa is looking to move up in the Men's Open rankings in Ohio. With over a decade of experience as an IFBB professional, De La Rosa has seen it all on the stage. Given the size he has taken on over the past season, fans have labeled him a wild card as the competition date approaches.
Last year, De La Rosa wowed the community with a pair of consecutive second place finishes at the 2023 Chicago Pro and Tampa Pro. The battle-hardened De La Rosa is focused on staying in the first call-up.
Black Horse Arnold Classic 2024
Antoine Vaillant
Antoine Vaillant is another big name in the Open that could easily challenge for the top rungs of the podium. The Canadian native always brings positive energy to the podium and his posing skills help him shine against his opponents. After overcoming a mysterious heart condition, Vaillant has refocused his career and training while significantly improving his aesthetic.
Vaillant last competed at Mr. Olympia 2022, but failed to place in the top 15. He is eager to move on from that performance and has carefully crafted his physique to compete against the biggest names in the sport.
Don't miss the bodybuilding event in Columbus, Ohio from February 29 to March 3. Bodybuilding legend Arnold Schwarzenegger has confirmed that the live stream will be free on the official Arnold Sports website.
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