Bodybuilder Derek Lunsford is ramping up preparations for the 2026 Mr. Olympia. In an Instagram post from June 20, 2026, he shared a ripped physique update as he aims to recapture the Sandow trophy.
In 2025, Derek Lunsford cemented his legacy in the Men’s Open class. He claimed gold at the Arnold Classic, Pittsburgh Pro, and Mr. Olympia, completing his ‘Triple Crown’ goal. Before attempting to defend his title this September, Lunsford opted for an off-season to improve his chest and biceps.
In the meantime, Chinedu Andrew ‘Jacked’ Obiekea has emerged as one of his greatest threats. The Nigerian native secured $1 million in prize earnings thanks to his wins at the Arnold Classic Ohio and UK. Their rivalry has only intensified throughout the season. When they met face-to-face for the annual Olympia Battle Workout, Lunsford told Jacked he’d never win the Mr. Olympia.
Sporting one of the widest backs in the IFBB Pro League, Lunsford hopes to extend his winning streak at the ‘Super Bowl of Bodybuilding.’ Based on his latest progress photos, the champ appears to be on track for another dominant performance.
Derek Lunsford Reveals Shredded Physique Update 14 Weeks from 2026 Mr. Olympia
Find Lunsford’s latest physique update from Instagram below:
“14 weeks from now… we hit the stage @mrolympiallc Let the transformation begin. 🫡” Derek Lunsford shared.
Beyond Jacked, there are plenty of big-name bodybuilders expected for Vegas. Hadi Choopan is back in action, having tapped Milos Sarcev as his new prep coach. For the last three years, Choopan has finished second at the Olympia, making him a clear frontrunner on paper.
Samson Dauda seized the Olympia throne in 2024, but fell short in his last outing. Dauda dropped to fourth place at the Olympia after his pursuit of drier conditioning backfired. While away from the stage, “The Nigerian Lion” bulked up to an impressive 350 pounds to ensure he doesn’t make the same mistake twice.
Additionally, Martin Fitzwater could break into title contention. He finished fifth in Vegas last season and beat Dauda at the Prague Pro. However, he faced setbacks recently after securing a pair of fourth-place finishes at the Arnold Classic Ohio and UK events. Nick Walker is another top name to keep an eye on, as he aims to qualify for the Olympia with a statement win at the Tampa Pro.
By all accounts, Lunsford looks to be bringing one of his best looks of all time. However, it will all come down to how the athletes peak when the Olympia returns from September 24-27 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Fitness Volt will have live coverage.
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