The anticipation for the 2024 Mr. Olympia contest has reached a fever pitch, fueled further by a recent workout session that brought together three of bodybuilding’s most formidable competitors.
In a special collaboration on the Olympia TV YouTube channel, Derek Lunsford, Nick Walker, and Samson Dauda engaged in an intense chest training session, offering fans a glimpse of the epic battle to come.
With roughly four months until the 2024 Mr. Olympia, the excitement is palpable, and this workout has only added to the intrigue.
The Road to the 2024 Mr. Olympia
The Historic Significance of the Event
The Mr. Olympia contest is the pinnacle of bodybuilding competitions, and the 2024 event holds special significance as it marks the 60th anniversary of this prestigious event.
Olympia President Dan Solomon has confirmed that this year’s contest will be held at the luxurious Resort’s World in Las Vegas, Nevada.
This milestone event promises to be a grand celebration of bodybuilding, attracting the best athletes from around the world.
Derek Lunsford’s Meteoric Rise
Derek Lunsford, the first-ever two-division Mr. Olympia winner, is a central figure in this year’s competition.
His remarkable journey from the 212 division to the Open class has been nothing short of extraordinary.
Derek Lunsford’s impressive victory at the 2023 Mr. Olympia in Orlando, Florida, cemented his status as one of the sport’s elite competitors.
His ability to transition between divisions and excel at the highest level showcases his incredible talent and dedication.
Nick Walker’s Comeback
Nick Walker, known as ‘The Mutant,’ has had a tumultuous journey leading up to the 2024 Mr. Olympia.
After suffering severe injuries that left him in a wheelchair, Nick Walker made a triumphant return by winning the New York Pro, securing his spot at this year’s Olympia.
His resilience and determination have made him a fan favorite, and his past performance, placing as high as third at the 2022 Olympia, indicates that he will be a formidable contender once again.
Samson Dauda’s Rapid Ascent
Samson Dauda has quickly risen through the ranks in the Men’s Open division.
Known for his muscle volume and rapid improvements, Samson Dauda placed third at the 2023 Olympia and earned silver in subsequent competitions.
Bodybuilding veterans believe that with the right conditioning, Samson Dauda has the potential to contend for the top spot at the 2024 Mr. Olympia.
His consistent performance and impressive physique make him a serious threat to the title.
RELATED: Mr. Olympia 2023
The Intense 2024 Mr. Olympia Battle Workout
Setting the Stage
The workout session that brought Derek Lunsford, Nick Walker, and Samson Dauda together was more than just a routine training day it was a showcase of the intense preparation and competitive spirit that defines the journey to Mr. Olympia.
Held in Phoenix, Arizona, this workout was designed to push the athletes to their limits, highlighting their physical prowess and mental toughness.
The session provided a snapshot of what fans can expect on the Olympia stage.
Pre-Workout Banter and Mindset
Before diving into the workout, the three athletes shared their thoughts and excitement about the upcoming competition.
Nick Walker, fresh off his New York Pro victory, expressed his confidence and readiness to claim the Olympia title.
“I feel great, you know, just coming off a victory. I’m ready to show these guys what’s up and take the title come 19 weeks baby,” Nick Walker declared.
Samson Dauda, enjoying the camaraderie with his fellow competitors, emphasized his commitment to training and preparation.
“I’m feeling good man. It’s nice to be here. I’m enjoying the boys and yeah, we going to give y’all a show. Man, [I train] as heavy as it takes. That’s all that matters.”
Derek Lunsford, reflecting on his successful year, was focused and determined as he geared up for the intense session.
“I feel great. It’s been a great year,” Derek Lunsford added. “Here we are in Phoenix, Arizona for the Olympia Battle and we’re 19 weeks out from the Olympia so it’s a go-time baby.”
The Chest Workout Breakdown
The chest workout they engaged in was grueling and comprehensive, designed to test their limits and prepare them for the intense competition ahead.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of their chest battle workout:
Incline Bench Press Hammer Strength Machine
The workout began with the incline bench press hammer strength machine. Nick Walker led the way, setting a high bar with his impressive lifting.
Bodybuilding veteran Chris Cormier provided guidance and encouragement, ensuring each athlete pushed themselves to the max.
Incline Smith Machine Bench Press
Next, they moved to the incline Smith machine bench press. Samson Dauda carefully adjusted the machine and loaded it with three 45-pound plates on each side.
The group decided to maintain this weight for their final set, pushing each other to lift heavy and maintain form.
“Try and stop me, you can’t,” Derek Lunsford challenged Nick Walker, showcasing the competitive spirit among the trio.
Nick Walker responded with equal intensity, “Come on Derek, you’re Mr. O right? You’re Mr. O, right? Show me why. Show me why.”
RELATED: Jay Cutler Doubtful of Nick Walker Making Top 3 at 2024 Mr. Olympia
Incline Chest Fly Machine
The incline chest fly machine was their next challenge. The athletes focused on slow, controlled contractions, emphasizing form and muscle engagement.
This exercise highlighted their dedication to perfecting their physiques and pushing through the pain.
Derek Lunsford explained the rationale behind training with their competition, “The question is, why would you help your competition? Why would you train with these guys? Why would you push each other? Because we all want to bring our best and we want to go up against each other’s best. That’s why.”
Hammer Strength Chest Press Machine
Under Cormier’s guidance, they proceeded to the hammer-strength chest press machine. Each athlete pushed to failure, with Nick Walker demonstrating his impressive strength and endurance.
Derek Lunsford, confident in his performance, remarked, “I think I’m winning this battle.”
Cable Fly Machine
The cable fly machine followed, where Nick Walker continued to push himself to near failure, showcasing his dedication and intensity.
He confidently declared, “Every house is my house,” reflecting his dominance and competitive spirit.
Standing Dumbbell Lateral Raise
The standing dumbbell lateral raise was next on the agenda. The athletes performed these raises with precision, focusing on building shoulder strength and definition.
The session then transitioned into an impromptu posing session, where they took off their pump covers to display their progress.
Reverse Cable Crossover
The workout concluded with reverse cable crossovers, a challenging exercise designed to target the chest and shoulders from different angles.
This final exercise tested their endurance and completed the grueling session.
Off-Camera Insights and Derek Lunsford’s Confidence
During a conversation off-camera, Derek Lunsford shared his thoughts on Nick Walker and Samson Dauda ahead of the 2024 Mr. Olympia competition. His confidence was evident as he discussed their prospects.
“No, but you don’t like that? To think that these guys are battling here for third and I’m here, unless you want me to I will.”
Judge Terrick El Guindy, encouraging Derek Lunsford to showcase his physique, insisted, “Take off your shirt, and say I’m Mr. Olympia.”
Initially hesitant, Derek Lunsford eventually obliged, demonstrating his confidence and readiness for the upcoming competition.
“I mean the reason for not doing it is just I’m thinking marketing in my head. Thinking about doing it, because we just did it at the Pittsburgh Pro and I don’t know what you thought but I thought that was a good showing for myself in front of these guys.
So we just did it a couple of weeks ago. We’re in the gym, it’s different lighting, it’s a different kind of thing to where it brings it closer in terms of like the look. So it’s like look, you guys already know.”
Terrick El Guindy’s insistence was clear, “No. Derek, I need you to take off the shirt. You’re Mr. Olympia.”
The Competitive Landscape of the 2024 Mr. Olympia
The Top Contenders
With the 2024 Mr. Olympia approaching, the competitive landscape is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent years.
The top contenders, including Derek Lunsford, Nick Walker, and Samson Dauda, are all vying for the prestigious Sandow trophy.
Their recent workout session showcased not only their physical capabilities but also their mental fortitude and competitive spirit.
RELATED: Jay Cutler’s Insights on the 2023 Mr. Olympia
Jay Cutler’s Assessment
Four-time Mr. Olympia champion Jay Cutler has been closely monitoring the competition and has identified Derek Lunsford, Hadi Choopan, and Samson Dauda as his top three threats.
Jay Cutler’s insights reflect the high level of competition and the unpredictability of the upcoming event.
Each of these athletes brings a unique set of strengths and qualities that make them formidable opponents.
The Importance of Conditioning
One of the critical factors that will determine the outcome of the 2024 Mr. Olympia is conditioning.
Bodybuilding veterans agree that achieving peak conditioning on the day of the competition is crucial.
Samson Dauda, in particular, has shown rapid improvements and has the potential to contend for the top spot if he nails his conditioning.
The importance of maintaining peak physical condition cannot be overstated, as it often separates the winners from the rest.
Conclusion: The Road Ahead
As the 2024 Mr. Olympia approaches, the excitement and anticipation continue to build.
The recent workout session featuring Derek Lunsford, Nick Walker, and Samson Dauda has provided fans with a tantalizing preview of the epic battle to come.
Each of these athletes has demonstrated their dedication, strength, and competitive spirit, setting the stage for a thrilling contest.
Derek Lunsford’s confidence, Nick Walker’s resilience, and Samson Dauda’s rapid ascent highlight the diverse and dynamic nature of this year’s competition.
The journey to the Mr. Olympia stage is filled with challenges and triumphs, and these athletes are ready to give it their all.
As fans eagerly await the 2024 Mr. Olympia, one thing is certain: this year’s contest will be a historic and unforgettable event.
The battle for the Sandow trophy will showcase the best of bodybuilding, celebrating the sport’s rich history and promising future.
With only a few months to go, the stage is set, and the athletes are ready. The countdown to the 2024 Mr. Olympia has begun, and the world is watching.