If the 2019 Mr. Olympia did not have enough excitement for you, things just got a bit bigger. Hadi Choopan, a favorite to win the Olympia, had a bit of an altercation backstage, after the prejudging.
Choopan is one of the many athletes from around the world who came out to Las Vegas in hopes of winning the vacant title of Mr. Olympia. This is his first time competing in the Olympia, due to trouble acquiring a U.S. Visa. However, this has not stopped people from thinking he has a big shot at winning the entire competition.
One group of people who do not seem to believe this is the case, is the members of Oxygen Gym in Kuwait. This gym is the home of some other favorites to win the Olympia, Brandon Curry, and Roelly Winklaar. Therefore, the members of this gym are clearly hoping that Choopan will not walk away as the victor.
It appears that this difference in opinion nearly boiled over in an altercation that took place after last night’s pre-judging.
In a video captured backstage, you can see this altercation unfold, as Hadi Choopan is seen yelling at a group of people. The altercation nearly resulted in a brawl between Choopan and the people from Oxygen Gym. However, at the last minute, Olympia Officials, alongside fellow competitor William Bonac, separate the two parties, restoring order.
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Check out the video of the exchange:
This incident between the guys at Oxygen Gym and Hadi Choopan could have been a lot worse. Hopefully nothing else happens, and the rest of the Olympia can continue without any further problems. After the argument, Choopan is seen being calmed by the officials. Additionally, he is being reassured that this will not happen again.
The finals of the 2019 Mr. Olympia take place this evening, where Hadi Choopan looks to be crowned Mr. Olympia. Check out the live webcast here, and stay tuned to FitnessVolt for any further updates.