Hadi Choopan: After years of battling it out in the top five of the Mr. Olymipa, Hadi Choopan finally earned the Sandow by becoming the 2022 Mr. Olympia champion. Starting as a Men’s 212 champion – his victory was proof that size is not always the most important factor in claiming victory.
Chris Bumstead: Bumstead won his fourth consecutive Classic Physique Olympia trophy this year. He continues to be the gold standard to beat in the Classic Physique division and promises to return to defend his fifth title next year – having said he “unlocked” new potential that he can’t wait to pursue in 2023.
Shaun Clarida: Despite musing about competing in Men’s Open, Clarida decided to return to the Men’s 212 division and reclaim his Olympia title. He did just that – earning his second Olympia victory and showcasing perhaps his most incredible physique to date.
Nick Walker: Perhaps the most hyped pro bodybuilder of 2022, Nick Walker rose up two placings this year with a third place finish at the Mr. Olympia. Depsite not earning the Sandow, he did also defeat the former Olympia champ, Big Ramy. At 28 years old, he has plenty of room to improve, all but promising he will one day earn the Sandow trophy.
Erin Banks: After battling in the Men’s Physique Olympia for years now, Banks has finally earned victory at the Olympia. Always a major threat, his improvements brought him into the forefront and is now the standard to beat in coming years.
Derek Lunsford: The former Men’s 212 Olympia champion switched over to compete in Men’s Open… and placed second at the 2022 Mr. Olympia. That’s an impressive achievement, having claimed to adding 25 pounds onto his physique in just one year. With that kind of progress, will he rise up to claim the Sandow for himself in 2023?
Tommi Thompson: The current Natural Olympia 2022 champion, Thompson showcased an incredible physique. Adding himself to the list of elite competitors who stand tall as best natural bodybuilders in the world.
Harold Kelley: The undefeated powerhouse of Pro Wheelchair Bodybuilding, Kelley remains the golden standard of the idea physique for the division. With yet another victory, there are no signs of Kelley slowing down anytime soon.