The bodybuilding world has been abuzz with speculation about Samson Dauda‘s future after his impressive victory at the 2024 Mr. Olympia.
Among the many voices offering advice, bodybuilding legend Shawn Ray recently made headlines by suggesting that Samson Dauda should avoid defending his title at the 2025 Mr. Olympia, arguing that there’s little to gain by becoming a two-time champion.
In a recent YouTube video, Ray laid out his reasoning, raising an intriguing question about the best way for Samson Dauda to build his legacy.
Samson Dauda’s Rise to Olympia Champion
Samson Dauda, often called “The Nigerian Lion,” has proven himself one of the most ambitious and resilient athletes in the sport.
In 2023, he finished third at the Mr. Olympia and went on to win the Romania Muscle Fest Pro and the EVLS Prague Pro, cementing his place as a top competitor.
However, Samson Dauda wasn’t content to rest on his laurels, pushing himself in the 2024 season to participate in events like the Arnold Classic Ohio and the UK edition, where he placed second to Hadi Choopan.
In an unconventional move, Dauda took part in the 2024 Tsunami Pro shortly before the Olympia. This gamble paid off, as he arrived at the Olympia sharper and more prepared than ever.
His dedication, conditioning, and the risk of competing close to Olympia led to his victory on the sport’s most prestigious stage, earning him the Sandow trophy and widespread admiration.
Shawn Ray’s Surprising Advice: “Don’t Defend the Title”
After Samson Dauda’s win, he expressed his intent to continue competing, including a return to the 2025 Arnold Classic. But Shawn Ray believes Samson Dauda should rethink his strategy, suggesting that defending the Olympia title may not be worth the risk.
Ray explained his perspective by saying, “I don’t defend the title. That’s just me. There’s nowhere to go but down. There’s nothing more special about being a two-time Mr. Olympia, I think, than being a one-time Mr. Olympia.”
Ray’s view is that Samson Dauda has already achieved the sport’s highest honor, and competing again puts him at risk of tarnishing that accomplishment.
Citing Big Ramy’s two-time Olympia win as an example, Ray contended that adding more titles doesn’t necessarily elevate an athlete’s legacy.
He went on to say that Samson Dauda’s victory already places him in elite company and should serve as a moment for celebration rather than a springboard for further titles.
Encouraging Dauda to Inspire His Roots
In addition to the risks of defending his title, Ray suggested that Samson Dauda could make an impact by taking the Sandow trophy back to Nigeria.
This gesture, according to Ray, would not only showcase Samson Dauda’s accomplishment to his home country but could also inspire a new generation of bodybuilders in Nigeria and Africa as a whole.
“I want him to go back to Nigeria to show those guys what an Olympia title looks like, what the Sandow Trophy looks like,” said Ray, emphasizing the cultural and motivational influence Dauda could wield.
Health Concerns and Longevity in the Sport
Ray’s advice also addresses the physical toll of competing at Samson Dauda’s level. At around 300 pounds, Samson Dauda’s physique requires intense dedication, diet, and training.
According to Ray, continually pushing his body to defend the title could present unnecessary health risks, particularly when Dauda has already reached the pinnacle of bodybuilding.
“He’s a 300-pound bodybuilder. When you push it like that, you’re putting yourself in harm’s way. He doesn’t have to prove anything to anyone, he won the ultimate prize,” Ray argued, stressing that sometimes longevity and well-being should come before further accolades.
Industry Reactions: Some Veterans Disagree
Not everyone in the bodybuilding world agrees with Ray’s perspective. Bodybuilding veterans Chris Cormier and Milos Sarcev have voiced support for Dauda defending his title.
They believe that if Samson Dauda can replicate the look he brought to the 2024 Mr. Olympia, he would be difficult to beat.
IFBB judge Terrick El Guindy also shared a positive outlook on Dauda’s abilities, saying, “He’s got the size, the muscle mass, he’s got the lines, his conditioning is getting better and better.” El Guindy praised Dauda’s back double biceps and back lat spread, calling them “a weapon in his favor,” which he believes could make Dauda an indomitable champion in future competitions.
Dauda’s Bond with Fans and His Future in Bodybuilding
Part of what makes Dauda such a compelling figure is not only his physique but also his personality and strong fan connection.
El Guindy noted that Dauda is “greatly appreciated by the fans and by everybody” for the positive attitude he brings both on and off the stage.
This bond with his supporters might be a major factor in his decision-making as he contemplates defending his title.
Many believe Dauda’s love for bodybuilding and his commitment to the sport may lead him to compete in 2025 despite Ray’s advice.
A Legacy in the Making
As Dauda navigates his post-Olympia plans, the advice from industry veterans like Ray, Cormier, and Sarcev will undoubtedly play a role in his decision.
While Shawn Ray’s perspective focuses on longevity, legacy, and health, others argue that defending his title could cement Dauda’s place among the greatest champions in bodybuilding history.
For now, it remains to be seen if Dauda will take Ray’s advice or pursue his passion on the 2025 Olympia stage, once again thrilling fans around the world.