In under four months, the world’s best Open Bodybuilders will compete for the sport’s ultimate title. Taking to Instagram on May 26, 2026, head judge Steve Weinberger discussed the Derek Lunsford and Chinedu Andrew ‘Jacked’ Obiekea rivalry ahead of the Mr. Olympia. He also highlighted that eight contenders can walk away with gold when the event returns.
In 2025, Derek Lunsford accomplished a rare feat; he managed to claim the Arnold Classic, Pittsburgh Pro, and Mr. Olympia titles consecutively. While he opted for an off-season, Jacked carried on and won three shows in a row, including the Romania Pro, Arnold Classic Ohio, and UK contests.
However, tensions didn’t flare until they met face-to-face for the annual Mr. Olympia battle workout. Lunsford took a more outspoken tone this year, telling Jacked that he’d never win the Sandow trophy as long as he’s around.
Lunsford went on to explain that Jacked disrespected him on multiple occasions before their heated interaction. With ‘The Super Bowl of Bodybuilding’ around the corner, ‘Big Steve’ opened up on their dispute and his Men’s Open expectations.
Steve Weinberger Talks 2026 Mr. Olympia & Lunsford’s Rivalry With Andrew Jacked
In the Instagram reel, Weinberger emphasized that eight contenders could win the 2026 Mr. Olympia.
“There’s about eight guys that can take that title on that day, and honestly, until you have the show and until we go through it, you never know. Whatever happens on that day.”
He believes the back-and-forth between Lunsford and Jacked has made the build-up for the event more exciting. Weinberger stated that this is the most competitive Mr. Olympia in the last four years.
“I like that [Derek Lunsford’s Andrew Jacked comments], I like when guys are confident in what they are bringing. You believe in yourself, and you’re confident; there’s nothing wrong with saying that. It gives fire to the show. It makes the show not boring, and it’s exciting. If you don’t stand up for yourself, no one else will.”
“I just think this year is more competitive than it has been in the last four years.”
Weinberger compared the Lunsford–Jacked beef to one of boxing’s greatest rivalries:
“I like that Derek is talking, and honestly, Andrew is not shy, and neither is Samson, so I’m sure they are going to have their answers soon. It’s like a Muhammad Ali–Joe Frazier deal. They both spoke, they both believed in themselves, and they are both great.”
According to Weinberger, bodybuilding today is better and more unpredictable than in past eras.
“I definitely think it’s better now. It was great when Lee Haney dominated eight years, and Dorian six, and Ronnie had eight, Jay had four, but I think now it’s hard to hold two in a row. It makes it exciting for the athletes and exciting for the fans,” explained Steve Weinberger.
Suffice it to say, this has only pumped up anticipation for the 2026 Mr. Olympia. It won’t just be Lunsford and Jacked battling it out. Former 2024 Mr. Olympia Samson Dauda will be back in action, aiming to become a two-time champ.
Steve Weinberger expects the 2026 Mr. Olympia to deliver across all bodybuilding divisions, but especially the Men’s Open. The show is set to take place from September 24-27 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
