"My main goal is to be Mr. Olympia, that's why I won't be attending the 2023 Arnold Classic," says Derek Lunsford

At the beginning of March, another edition of the prestigious Arnold Classic will take place, which after Olympia is the highest quality competition you could find in the world of bodybuilding. With the organizers of this contest stating that the winner of the open division will receive a sum of $300,000, many great competitors have accepted their participation in the contest.

Arnold Classic | Men's Open - Competitors

• William Bonac
• Samson Dauda
• Shaun Clarida
• Akim Williams
• Blessing Awodibu - declined
• Charles Griffin- declined
• Justin Rodriguez
• Kamal Elgargni
• Nick Walker
• Patrick Moor
• Andrew Chinedu
• Mamdouh "Big Ramy" Elssbiay

Another competitor who was invited to this event was the second man from last year's Olympia - Derek Lunsford. In a recent statement, Derek made it clear that what he showed at the Olympia was far from all that was dormant in him and he believes that only time will show what he has in him.

I may be standing on the podium, but there are so many important people who are the real backbone of the whole journey.
My wife is absolutely the best gift in my life! Thank you for always being by my side, especially during the hard times. I love you. hanyrambod! What you did for me off stage has forever impacted my life. I'm grateful to have you in my corner helping me find my full potential. This is just the beginning... and what a start it's been.

There are so many people (not pictured) who support me each in their own individual way. I could go on and on. I've said it before and I will continue to say it... I am happy and enjoying this moment, but I am not satisfied. I know I can be and WILL be better!

Derek Lunsford | Mr. Olympia 2022

He could show his potential at this year's Arnold, where Derek was invited. In the end, however, he decided not to take part in the race because of his health, which he would put at too great a risk.

"I feel it's a decision I can't make on my own, but with my wife, because there's a lot of money involved. For me as a professional who loves the sport, the Arnold Classic is a prestigious title. I had the full support of my wife in whatever direction I wanted to go. But her main condition was that she wanted me to be healthy. That always came first for her. I started thinking about the Arnold Classic title, a lot of money with only a few months to go. But then I started thinking about what our ultimate goal was. The ultimate goal is to be Mr. Olympia and build the absolute best physique I can while maintaining my current health."