Lee Priest advises Sam Sulko ahead of Arnold Classic 2026: "He's heading for the Top 5 and doesn't need a coach"

The bodybuilding world is gearing up for one of the most anticipated debuts in IFBB Pro League history. Internet phenom Sam Sulek is set to dominate the podium in the Classic Physique category at the 2026 Arnold Classic. And the legendary Lee Priest has a clear message for the young competitor: You've got what it takes to beat the best.

Sulek's path to the pros has been lightning fast. After dominating his amateur debut at the NPC Legends Classic 2025, he easily secured his pro card in Ohio (impressing especially with his brutal quadriceps improvement). While others would choose a smaller event for their first pro start, Sulek jumped straight into the deepest waters. At the Arnold Classic, he'll face the absolute best, including reigning champion Mike Sommerfeld and Wesley Vissers.

How will he perform under pressure? Bodybuilding legend Lee Priest has the answer.

Coach? No one knows your body better than you do.

In a recent video on the IFBB AMA YouTube channel, Priest commented on the fact that Sam Sulek prepares on his own, without the help of a professional trainer. According to Priest, this is not a disadvantage, on the contrary, it shows Sam's exceptional perception of his own body.

"You can swear at him all you want, but the results speak for themselves. He went out there and did it. What have you internet screamers ever accomplished? Nothing," Priestdidn't mince words when addressing Sulko's haters. "What impresses me most is Sam's preparedness. He's doing it to himself. Even Nick (Walker) is now preparing himself. Sure, you can consult someone, but no one knows your body better than you do."

Priest said the role of a coach is often overrated and is more about psychological support in the final weeks of preparation.

"Maybe you need a coach mainly for the mental side. In the last weeks you start to doubt. But if you have a good support team around you - a girlfriend, parents or training partner - they should be honest enough to tell you if you look bad or what you need to change."

Priest's prediction: Sulek belongs in the Top 5

Looking at the bloated 2026 Arnold Classic start list, Priest isn't afraid to peg Sulek very high.

"The secret is to believe in yourself and be in control of your mind. Sam, I wish you nothing but the best. I'm still hoping he'll finish in the top five or six. But no matter what happens, if I look at how he looked last year and how he looks now - he's already a winner. He's improved unbelievably."

Defense against attacks: Who is Tim Wilkins?

Although Sam Sulek has an army of fans, he has also faced criticism from some celebrities. Recently, for example, Olympia presenter Tim Wilkins took a swipe at him, calling Sulek "trash for the sport". Lee Priest, however, immediately defended Sam, saying that the community doesn't really know who Wilkins is and comments like that don't carry any weight.

A trial by fire in just a few days

Sulek looks absolutely fantastic a week before the competition. He even recently mimicked the iconic side triceps pose made famous by Lee Priest and Tom Platz, and the fans are going crazy.

The Arnold Classic 2026 will take place March 5-8 in Columbus, Ohio. Can Sam Sulek live up to Priest's words and shock the Classic Physique world? Keep an eye on our website for the latest results and coverage from the weekend!

What do you think? Will Sam Sulek be able to break into the elite five on his debut, or will he face the harsh realities of the professional stage? Share your opinion with us in the comments!