Three legendary bodybuilding coaches & experts share their predictions for the top 5 placings at the 2024 Arnold Classic
In the lead-up to the highly anticipated 2024 Arnold Classic, bodybuilding fans are buzzing with excitement as discussions and debates intensify about the potential victor of the upcoming show. Renowned figures in the bodybuilding community, including Dennis James, Milos Sarcev, and Chris Cormier, recently shared their top five predictions on The Menace podcast.
The roster of competitors for the 2024 Arnold Classic was unveiled in mid-January, revealing some surprises that have captivated fans. Notably, former 2022 Mr. Olympia Hadi Choopan declared his entry, marking his inaugural appearance in the Arnold Classic. Choopan, having relinquished his title to Derek Lunsford at the 2023 Mr. Olympia, is on a mission for redemption, eyeing the prestigious first-place cash prize of $300,000.
Another unexpected entry causing a stir among fans is Rubiel ‘Neckzilla’ Mosquera, who gained prominence with a remarkable third-place finish in his Pro debut at the 2023 EVLS Prague Pro. Despite the withdrawal of Andrew Jacked from the event, the lineup boasts star-worthy contenders, including Justin Rodriguez, Marcello De Angelis (Horse MD), Rafael Brandao, and James Hollingshead.
Milos Sarcev, Dennis James, and Chris Cormier, in a segment that has added to the anticipation, unveiled their respective top five predictions for the 2024 Arnold Classic. The consensus among the experts places Hadi Choopan in a prominent position, with variations in their rankings reflecting the unpredictable nature of the competition. Let’s break down each of their predictions below:
Milos Sarcev’s Top 5 Predictions
- Samson Dauda
- Hadi Choopan
- Andrew Jacked *(NOTE: Has since withdrawn)
- Horse MD
- James Hollingshead
Dennis James’ Top 5 Predictions
- Hadi Choopan
- Samson Dauda
- Rafael Brandao
- Andrew Jacked *(NOTE: Has since withdrawn)
- Hollingshead
Chris Cormier’s Top 5 Predictions
- Hadi Choopan
- Samson Dauda
- Rubiel Mosquera
- Andrew Jacked *(NOTE: Has since withdrawn)
- Horse MD
As you can see from the above listed predictions – there is a near-unanimous belief that Hadi Choopan will take the first place spot. Milos Sarcev, however, gave the edge to Samson Dauda. If this prediction were to be correct, this would be a large leap for Dauda – rising up to defeat a former (and very recent) Mr. Olympia champion. Choopan had just placed second in October this past year.
As the bodybuilding world eagerly awaits the spectacle, the 2024 Arnold Classic promises to be a thrilling showcase of talent, determination, and the pursuit of redemption for some of the sport’s most illustrious contenders.
You can watch the full episode of The Menace podcast below which includes the 2024 Arnold Classic predictions discussion:
