With the bodybuilding season heating up, all eyes are on the upcoming 2024 Arnold Classic South America on April 5 through 7. In a recent YouTube video, Samir Bannout discussed the upcoming show, naming his top two favorites.
Rafael Brandao is staking his claim among elite Men’s Open competitors. He proved that during the 2024 Arnold Classic Ohio, where he held his own against names such as Samson Dauda and champion Hadi Choopan, securing a third-place finish.
Samir Bannout Talks Rafael Brandao, Tonio Burton Clash at the 2024 Arnold Classic South America
Rafael Brandao is now competing on his home turf in Brazil at the 2024 Arnold Classic South America this weekend, April 5 through 7. The esteemed bodybuilding veteran and former Mr. Olympia Samir Bannout chimed in, giving his opinion on the upcoming event, including his top two picks and thoughts regarding Rafael Brandao.
“Yeah, Rafael has come a long way,” said Samir Bannout.
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“He made huge changes since the year before. I honestly and some people really told me that Rafael could have been worthy of second place. Look at it, he was so popping and hard [at 2024 Arnold Classic].”
Bannout was complimentary of the mass Brandao has acquired as of late.
“Whatever he did, he needs to continue to do that. Because now he has plenty of beef, before he told me personally, Samir I need to put on some muscle mass and actually he did a good job and I’m happy for him. I think he’s the favorite, yes.”
Considering the changes that Rafael Brandao has made to his physique, Samir Bannout praised the work that Brandao and his coach Neil have achieved thus far.
“Look at how good he looked. He looked damn good. You know what? I think him and Neil really did a good job because you know, I think Neil has lots of experience in coaching. Neil used to coach Flex Lewis by the way, remember? So, he has a good track record.”
“Whatever they did together, I thought it was wonderful. They peaked properly. The muscle was much fuller and it was in excellent shape and popping, the whole nine yards. So, if he continues on that kind of trend he continues to improve… yeah, he’s — I think he will probably win that show, more likely.”
As far as the competition goes, Samir Bannout also has his eye on Tonio Burton, declaring him and Rafael Brandao as the top two frontrunners.
“I saw him actually [Tonio Burton] in New York and I was very impressed. I was there live. I was sitting in the first row and he looked very impressive honestly. So, let’s see what kind of package he’s going to bring into the show next weekend right? In Brazil. I can see the two frontrunners.”
“I like his flow,” adds Bannout.
“He flows very well. Pretty good calves, good sweep, small waist, and so, let’s see how they match up when they hit poses next to each other.”
With preparations intensifying for Brandao, he teamed up with bodybuilding royalty recently. Working alongside former seven-time 212 Olympia Flex Lewis, Brandao demolished an intense shoulder workout and topped it off with a posing session. Judging by their collaboration, Rafael Brandao is on track to bring something special to his next show.
As one of the most popular Brazilian IFBB Pros on the planet, fans look forward to welcoming Brandao back to the stage. Should he claim the victory this weekend, he will have the qualification he needs to compete at the 2024 Mr. Olympia going down on October 10-13.
To watch Samir Bannout’s full video, click the link below:
RELATED: Rafael Brandao Flaunts Massive Physique After Destroying Heavy Back Workout with New Coach
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