Lunsford vs. Walker: Tensions are building ahead of Mr. Olympia!

Tensions rise: Lunsford vs. Walker 9 weeks before Mr. Olympia

The clash between two of the bodybuilding scene's most popular talents is imminent, with just nine weeks to go. Nick Walker and Derek Lunsford posted the latest photos on their Instagram accounts on August 10, 2025, which only confirms that their Las Vegas matchup is coming.

The two bodybuilders have already had a chance to meet this year. "Mutant" returned after a long hiatus at the Pittsburgh Pro 2025, where he placed second. After a thrilling battle, he ultimately lost to Lunsford in a shootout.

While it wasn't the result Walker was hoping for, he didn't let that stop him. Just one week later, he dominated the New York Pro 2025, securing his spot at the most important event of the season. Since then, speculation has been rife as to which of the two will become the overall champion.

There's also been some heated exchanges

Ahead of the rematch at Mr. Olympia, there is a strong rivalry between the two men. Lunsford believes that Walker should thank him for the defeat in Pittsburgh because it gave him the opportunity to create "hype". Walker called Lunsford's comments "nonsense" and plans to settle their accounts once and for all this October.

Lunsford and Walker show incredible form 9 weeks before Mr. Olympia 2025

In recent Instagram posts, Lunsford and Walker sent each other "warning shots" in the form of recent photos of their form.

"Morning check. If I told you how much I weigh... you still wouldn't believe me. Lol. 9 weeks until the competition," Derek Lunsford wrote.

Zobrazit příspěvek na Instagramu

Příspěvek sdílený Derek Lunsford (@dereklunsford_)

Although Lunsford did not reveal his weight, Walker confirmed that he weighs 131 kilograms.

"Nine weeks to competition, 131 kg," wrote Nick Walker.

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Příspěvek sdílený Nick "the Mutant" Walker (@nick_walker39)

While fans are primarily focused on the tension between Lunsford and Walker, the starting list is full of big names. Lunsford and Walker will face off against former 2022 champion Hadi Choopan. Many, including legend Lee Haney, are calling "The Persian Wolf" the biggest favorite.

Four-time Mr. Olympia titleholder Jay Cutler also has his opinion on the favorites. He recently revealed his "four favorites" for this year's event, in no particular order. Cutler sees Sandow Choopan, defending champion Samson Dauda, Walker and Lunsford as candidates to win the trophy.

Lunsford and Walker seem to be in the form of their lives with less than three months to go until their fight. The Mr. Olympia 2025 contest takes place October 9-12 in Las Vegas, Nevada.