Sam Sulek has done it; on February 27, 2025, he earned his IFBB Pro card in Classic Physique Overall at his second bodybuilding contest, which took place at the 2025 Arnold Amateur.
For years, Sam Sulek teased his splash into bodybuilding. From his quest to reach 300 pounds to his grocery trips made up of Krispie Kreme Donuts and chocolate milk, he’s invited fans along his journey, courtesy of his massive YouTube channel of over four million subscribers.
He ripped the bandaid off and competed recently at the 2025 Legends Classic, a pitstop he had to dominate to test himself at the Arnold Amateur. Although he impressed in his debut, there were considerable doubts about his ability to earn an IFBB Pro card, namely from credentialed bodybuilding coach Chris Aceto.
Sulek’s popularity has steadily risen over time, and his supporters were thrilled to witness his first bodybuilding competition. He gained recognition for his impressive muscular development at a young age, though some questioned the approaches he took to build it, particularly his eating habits. Recently, he shifted his focus to refining his nutrition and shedding some weight, adjusting his calorie consumption to align with this new objective.
His competition debut grabbed the attention of notable figures in the fitness world, including Hany Rambod, a highly successful bodybuilding coach with a track record of guiding athletes to 24 Olympia victories. Rambod evaluated Sulek’s physique, offering minimal criticism and giving it an overall score of 9.5.
View this post on InstagramGet Fitter, FasterLevel Up Your Fitness: Join our 💪 strong community in Fitness Volt Newsletter. Get daily inspiration, expert-backed workouts, nutrition tips, the latest in strength sports, and the support you need to reach your goals. Subscribe for free!
However, Sulek showcased a dramatically improved package in Columbus, OH– and as a result, has become an IFBB Pro at the young age of 22. While his leg separation and fullness were thought to be issues in his last contest they were seemingly corrected at the Arnold Amateur.
Living Up to His Potential: Sam Sulek Wins IFBB Pro Card at 22 Years Old at 2025 Arnold Amateur
With a smile on his face and his fist held up high, Sulek graciously accepted his IFBB Pro card, having claimed the overall victory in the Classic Physique division. The triumph was even more satisfying considering how stacked this show was compared to his amateur debut-winning performance.
Bodybuilding veteran Lee Priest, who has defended Sulek’s unconventional dieting choices previously, extended a congratulatory message to the up-and-coming Pro.
“Great job @sam_sulek wish I was there we will do arm workout in Vegas with @sid_n_michelle_sidell Congratulations again 💪👍” Priest shared.
Sam Sulek has followed in Andrew Jacked’s footsteps, earning his IFBB Pro card at the Arnold Amateur. With this victory, Sulek adds his name to a new wave of young bodybuilders making their presence known at one of the most prestigious competitions in the sport.
Following reigning six-time Classic Physique Olympia Chris Bumstead’s sudden retirement from bodybuilding, there is room for a new superstar to emerge in the category. And it looks like Sulek might be up for the task. Although he’s yet to claim a Pro show victory, he sent a clear message to the bodybuilding world that he’s not going anywhere.
How far do you think Sam Sulek will go in the Classic Physique division? Let us know in the comments below!
Related: Coach Hany Rambod Rates and Assesses Physique of Sam Sulek Following His Amateur Debut Win
You can also follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and
YouTube for even more content.
