Bodybuilder Hadi Choopan reaffirmed his entry for the 2026 Arnold Classic. On Feb. 8, 2026, he shared a rare physique update five weeks from the competition.
Hadi Choopan is a big favorite heading into the Arnold Classic (AC). He won the event back in 2024 and never lost the title, just chose not to compete at the prestigious contest in 2025. He continues to boast some of the best conditioning in the Men’s Open class, which many believe will give him the edge onstage.
Having placed second at the Mr. Olympia for the last three years, he’s motivated to turn in a statement performance. But it won’t be an easy path to gold. He has to get through Chinedu Andrew ‘Jacked’ Obiekea, who recently surged with momentum, thanks to his third-place Olympia finish and big victory at the Romania Pro.
Beyond Jacked, there are other top-tier Open threats to deal with. Martin Fitzwater is set for his AC debut. Hype behind him is high, especially after defeating Samson Dauda at the 2025 Prague Pro. Former 2019 Mr. Olympia Brandon Curry also stands out: he’s the only bodybuilder from the lineup to ever defeat Choopan onstage.
Meanwhile, Brazilian star Rafael Brandao will aim to upset after returning from a year-long hiatus. His last show came at the 2024 Romania Pro, which he won handily against Akim Williams. With the roster locked in, fans expect an unforgettable showdown.
Hadi Choopan Shares Physique Update 5 Weeks from 2026 Arnold Classic
In a pair of Instagram posts, Choopan showed off his latest progress ahead of the Arnold Classic.
“After a hard workout under arm chinta. Leg figure but I am tired ☝🏻
May Iran remember Iran in the name of Iran.
#iran
5 weeks out .” Hadi Choopan shared.
Choopan has faced resistance en route to the AC. Iran’s political unrest has divided bodybuilding fans globally, with some calling for his removal from the event. Bodybuilding veteran Lee Priest came to his defense, noting that Choopan doesn’t owe anyone anything and should have the right to compete when he wants.
Unprecedented stakes are on the line. Arnold Schwarzenegger revealed that the Men’s Open winner will secure a historic $750,000, the highest single payout in bodybuilding history. Additionally, the newly crowned champion will receive an automatic qualification for the 2026 Mr. Olympia’s return to Vegas from Sept. 24-27.
Choopan looks to be closing in on his all-time best physique. The 2026 Arnold Classic is set for March 5-8 in Columbus, OH. Fitness Volt will have live coverage.
Watch from the Hadi Choopan YouTube channel below:
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