Heads are turning after the competitor lineup was released publicly for the 2025 Arnold Classic. In a recent YouTube video shared on December 26, 2024, Men’s 212 Bodybuilding veteran Jose Raymond gave his top six Open picks ahead of the second-biggest contest of the year.
Before the lineups were even available, fans knew Samson Dauda would be atop the ticket for the nearing Arnold Classic. After reigning supreme at the 2024 Mr. Olympia with a newfound combination of size, fullness, and conditioning, Dauda became the 19th man to hold the coveted Sandow trophy. However, he didn’t bask in the glory of victory.
‘The Nigerian Lion’ announced his entry for the 2025 Arnold Classic after winning the prestigious title back in 2023 against Nick Walker. The lineup in Columbus, Ohio has materialized quickly, and not just because of Dauda’s entry.
Mass monster Andrew Jacked, who took fifth place at the last Mr. Olympia, will be in attendance, aiming to get a win over the current number-one bodybuilder in the world. Meanwhile, former 2023 Olympia champion Derek Lunsford has signed up and wants revenge after taking third at the blockbuster event in Sin City.
That’s certainly not all. Other surging talents in the IFBB Pro League such as former two-time 212 Olympia Shaun Clarida, Akim Williams, Brandon Curry, Justin Rodriquez, and more will be on deck, looking to pull off a massive upset.
Jose Raymond Reveals Top 6 Open Picks for the 2025 Arnold Classic
With so many big names heading to Arnold Schwarzenegger’s event, which is set to award $500,000 to its Open winner, Jose Raymond appeared on Dennis James’ podcast to deliver his anticipated top six picks for the contest.
Check out his picks below:
- Winner — Samson Dauda
- Second Place — Derek Lunsford
- Third Place — Andrew Jacked
- Fourth Place — Akim Williams
- Fifth Place — Shaun Clarida
- Sixth Place — Brandon Curry
Derek Lunsford has made it clear that this Arnold Classic appearance will be personal. Not only will it be his debut on the celebrated stage but he’ll have a new coach Chris Cormier guiding his preparations and training endeavors.
Thus far, several bodybuilding veterans have offered their picks with all of them backing Samson Dauda to emerge victorious. But given how unpredictable this sport is, we’ll never know for sure until the curtains rise. Don’t miss the action this March; Fitness Volt will have live coverage!
Watch the full video from the Muscle and Fitness YouTube channel below:
Catch comprehensive coverage of the 2025 Arnold Classic, including pre-judging, event recaps, analyses, and complete Arnold Classic results at our Arnold Classic coverage hub: FitnessVolt.com/arnold-classic
You can also follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and
YouTube for even more content.
