“Mr. Olympia” 2024 is just five weeks away, and bodybuilding veterans are making their predictions. In a recent YouTube video, athletes’ representative Bob Cicherillo named the possible top six contenders.
Last year, Derek Lunsford became the first two-category winner of “Olympia,” beating his teammate Hadi Choopan. In the eyes of many, the victory was controversial.
Since then, Choopan has won two gold medals at the “Arnold Classic” competitions in the U.S. and U.K., edging out rising open category star Samson Dauda in both events.
Fans are eagerly awaiting the return of Nick Walker, who was forced to miss last season’s “Mr. Olympia” due to injury. Walker secured his qualification for the biggest show in the world by winning his second “New York Pro” title. Andrew Jacked will also be joining the lineup, having won the “Texas Pro” for the third time.
With “Mr. Olympia” 2024 approaching, Bob Cicherillo shared his thoughts on who might make the top six:
“Let’s not assign a specific order to this list because there’s still time, and anything can happen. The top six are almost undoubtedly Derek, Hadi, Samson, Andrew Jacked, Nick, and Brandon Curry,” said Cicherillo. “No, I don’t have Martin Fitzwater in the top six,” he added. Bob also mentioned that Behrooz Tabani might miss the show due to visa issues. But if he competes, he could enter the top six, potentially overtaking Nick Walker or Brandon Curry. Cicherillo also speculated that Big Ramy may not compete, as there has been no news from him. The “dark horse” in his opinion is the 2024 “Chicago Pro” champion Mohamed Foda, who could place as high as sixth or seventh.
According to Cicherillo, Nick Walker lacks symmetry, proportions, and shape, which could prevent him from winning the competition. “He’s missing symmetry, proportions, and shape. I think there will always be two, three, or four guys with those qualities. Now, can he win the show? Absolutely, he’s proven that. He’s a damn good bodybuilder. He’s as muscular as you can get, he’s a freak. But when you step up to the Olympia level and stand next to Hadi, Derek, Samson, Andrew Jacked—who is now a fixture there—Brandon Curry, and everyone else, it’s going to be tough for him,” explained Bob.
As for Samson Dauda, Cicherillo believes he’s a clear contender for gold and claims he has the best physique of all the competitors. “I think he’s on track for victory. He looks as good as last year, if not better. I’ve been a big supporter of his since I met him in the U.K. many years ago. This was before he became the Samson everyone knows. I could see the talent emerging quickly, and he’s delivered. He’s got the best physique of anyone, no exceptions,” concluded Cicherillo.
