Samson Dauda, famously known as “The Nigerian Lion,” shook the bodybuilding world with his victory at the 2024 Mr. Olympia, taking home a record-breaking $600,000 prize.
In a candid discussion shared via YouTube on October 17, 2024, Dauda opened up about his incredible win, Derek Lunsford’s surprising third-place finish, and how using fewer steroids played a pivotal role in his success.
Samson Dauda’s Historic Victory at the 2024 Mr. Olympia
Heading into the 2024 Mr. Olympia, many believed the competition would come down to a fierce two-man showdown between previous winners Hadi Choopan and Derek Lunsford.
However, Samson Dauda stole the spotlight with his impeccable fullness and refined conditioning, leaving everyone in awe.
He claimed first place, while Choopan settled for second, and Lunsford, the defending champion, dropped to third.
Samson Dauda’s victory marked a new era in bodybuilding and stunned fans across the globe.
Reflecting on his win, Samson Dauda was equally surprised by the massive $600,000 payout, which had been kept a secret until the final announcement.
“I think Jake [Wood] really wanted to shock the audience with that one. He really pulled that one out,” Dauda remarked, sharing his astonishment at the sudden prize money increase.
Dauda’s Preparation and Mindset Going Into the Competition
Despite the massive stakes, Samson Dauda kept his expectations realistic, especially after his 2023 performance, where he had also been in the top three.
“I know I was definitely top three somewhere,” Dauda shared, adding that he refused to overthink the competition, knowing that it could lead to mistakes. Instead, he focused on presenting his best package for the finals.
There were moments, however, when Samson Dauda doubted himself.
“At one point on Friday afternoon, I looked in the mirror and hated the look. I thought I looked small and flat,” he admitted. Fortunately, his wife and team helped him stay calm, reminding him to trust the process. “Your mind is going to play that game with you. When it does, what did we say we do? Sit down, have a nap, wake up, let it pass,” Dauda explained, recounting how he overcame his mental struggles.
Reacting to Derek Lunsford’s Third-Place Finish
The most intense moment of the competition came when the judges announced that Derek Lunsford had placed third. Dauda, standing on stage with Hadi Choopan, described the heart-pounding seconds leading up to the announcement.
“Honestly, my heart literally went through my freakin guts,” Dauda said, shocked to hear Lunsford’s name called for third place.
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In that moment, Samson Dauda knew he was in the top two, a feeling he described as surreal.
He was initially content with the possibility of taking home $250,000 for second place but was floored when he won the title and $600,000.
Related: Samson Dauda Wins 2024 Mr. Olympia Title in Historic Victory
Using Less Steroids: A Key to Success
In a sport often associated with high-performance drugs, Dauda revealed that one of the most surprising aspects of his 2024 Olympia prep was how little steroids he used. “It was scary how much less it was,” Dauda admitted. His team took a different approach, evaluating his body’s response to each compound and eliminating anything that wasn’t yielding visible results. “
It was almost a case of why are you using this?
Can you physically see the result from it?
No? Then take it out, you don’t need it,” Samson Dauda explained. This minimalist approach helped him achieve his best physique yet, proving that sometimes less is more.
Related: Chris Bumstead Reveals His Plan To Help Increase Classic Physique Olympia Prize Money in 2025
Looking Ahead: Dauda’s Future Plans
Unlike many reigning champions who limit their competitions to the Olympia, Samson Dauda has already announced his plans to compete in the 2025 Arnold Classic.
His victory has reshaped the Men’s Open division, and his towering presence combined with his impressive conditioning makes him a formidable opponent for future competitions.
Dauda’s win at the 2024 Mr. Olympia has solidified his place at the top, and fans are eager to see how he will continue to dominate the sport.
In conclusion, Samson Dauda’s triumph at the 2024 Mr. Olympia, his smart use of performance enhancers, and his remarkable mindset have redefined the sport’s landscape.
His victory earned him a historic payday and cemented his legacy as one of bodybuilding’s brightest stars.