Derek Lunsford discussed the 2024 Olympia lineup highlighted by his rivalry with Hadi Choopan.
Derek Lunsford is hard at work this offseason as the reigning Olympia champion. He was victorious in just his second Olympia competition in Men’s Open and will look to defend his title come October. Lunsford has his eyes on all competitors but primarily Hadi Choopan.
“I have a lot of appreciation for Hadi. He really made me go to work every day and do my best. Among the other guys too, don’t get me wrong. Samson, Nick, and all the other guys. But right now, I see Hadi as the guy. I know he’s in the gym and he’s getting after it every single day.”
READ MORE: Derek Lunsford’s Olympia Chest & Arms Routine
Lunsford’s journey to the apex of bodybuilding is both remarkable and inspiring. He first captured the Olympia 212 title, then transitioned to the Men’s Open category, clinching the title on his second attempt. Significantly, he became the first athlete to secure titles in two different divisions, marking a historic moment in the competition’s legacy.
Lunsford was defeated by Choopan back in 2022 before jumping him on the scorecard last year. Now, this makes for an exciting battle once again this year.
Derek Lunsford: “Hadi And I Have A Great Rivalry”
Derek Lunsford joined Jay Cutler on Cutler Cast to discuss the Olympia competition. In the midst of the interview, Lunsford was asked about his move to Men’s Open. As a great 212 competitor, it was hard for Lunsford to completely regret not coming to Open earlier but admitted there was some feeling of wasted time.
“On one hand, yes because it would have been great to have excelled earlier on in my career. However, I take myself back to who I was, that kid that just turned Pro and went to the Olympia so fast. I needed that time to mature as a person.”
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Lunsford was able to make a name for himself and build his physique to win in Men’s 212. He quickly made the jump to Open and has reached the pinnacle of the sport. This offseason, Lunsford has taken a major jump in strength.
“I’m stronger in my legs. When it comes to my chest workouts, pressing movements, my leg movements, by far this is the strongest I’ve ever been.”
Derek Lunsford will enter as one of the favorites to win the 2024 Olympia title. The battle with Choopan will be one that will be documented early on.
“I do feel like Hadi and I have a great rivalry right now. I think it’s going to be really exciting for both of us to level up this year. It’s really exciting to see what’s going to happen with the Nick, Samson rivalry.”
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