Sam Sulek recently confirmed he will be doing both the 2026 Arnold Classic US & UK competitions – does he have a realistic shot to win them both in his pro debut?
The latest episode of the Generation Iron Podcast brought together IFBB Pro Bodybuilder Victor Martinez, Edwin Mejia Jr., Ehsan Farahi, and Vlad Yudin for an in-depth discussion that covered everything from training after 40 to major updates in the professional bodybuilding scene. This week’s topics touched on both real-world fitness advice and analysis of pro bodybuilding next year – including whether or not bodybuilder Sam Sulek can realistically win the 2026 Arnold Classic.
Here’s a brief overview of the topics discussed in this week’s episode:
- Is it possible to build significant muscle after 40?
- Reacting to Chris Bumstead’s comments about health and retirement.
- Sam Sulek confirms 2026 Arnold Classic US & UK – can he win? Victor Martinez answers.
- Andrew Jacked vs Nick Walker vs Hadi Choopan vs Derek Lunsford at the Arnold Classic 2026. Who will win?
- Nick Walker leaves his coach and plans to coach himself for the time being – good or bad idea?
You can watch the full episode of the Generation Iron Podcast above. Keep reading for a more in-depth breakdown of this week’s episode.
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Fan Question: Can You Build Significant Muscle After 40?
The podcast kicked off with a fan question that many in the fitness community often wonder: Is it possible to build significant muscle after 40?
Victor Martinez, a veteran bodybuilder and respected voice in the sport, was quick to dispel the myth that age 40 marks the end of muscle growth potential. According to Victor, turning 40 doesn’t mean your prime is over – in many cases, it can be the beginning of a whole new fitness journey. The key, he emphasized, is hunger and drive.
He stressed that it’s never too late to take control of your health. For those who are new to training later in life, Victor advised working with a professional trainer to learn safe and effective training methods. Injury prevention, he noted, is especially important for beginners over 40.
Victor also underscored the importance of a clean, balanced diet. Middle-aged lifters should avoid overdoing bulking phases – especially “dirty bulking,” which can place unnecessary stress on the cardiovascular system. He advised focusing on consistent, smart nutrition and disciplined training rather than reckless mass-gaining strategies.
Ehsan Farahi added that maintaining strong muscles with age is not just about aesthetics – it’s a health necessity. He explained that muscle strength is critical for bone health, joint stability, and overall mobility. Many injuries and age-related problems come from people who never engage in resistance training at all.
Victor agreed, adding that the best-case scenario is to start building healthy habits early. Those who develop strong training and diet routines in their youth are better equipped to sustain them as they age.
Chris Bumstead Opens Up About His Health — Victor’s Reaction
The hosts then turned their attention to recent comments from Classic Physique icon Chris Bumstead, who revealed that one of the main reasons behind his decision to retire was the toll bodybuilding had taken on his health.
Victor Martinez praised Bumstead for his honesty, calling his transparency honorable and necessary. He noted that many young fans look up to Bumstead, and hearing a top athlete discuss the risks of professional bodybuilding sends an important message.
“It’s very honorable for Chris to say that,” Victor said. “He’s showing the younger generation that there are real sacrifices and risks involved.”
Co-host Ed Mejia asked Victor whether he believes more bodybuilders will start pulling back to protect their health—or at least be more open about the realities of the sport.
Victor replied that while he doesn’t expect athletes to compete less, transparency could increase. He acknowledged that the dangers of bodybuilding are already well-known among professionals, but the key is knowing when to pull back and prioritize long-term health.
Sam Sulek to Compete at the 2026 Arnold Classic (US & UK)
Next, the discussion shifted to rising star Sam Sulek, who recently earned his pro card and is set to compete in both the US and UK Arnold Classic events in 2026.
Victor Martinez shared his initial thoughts, recalling that Sulek looked impressive when he won his pro card. However, he admitted he hadn’t yet seen side-by-side comparison photos and couldn’t fully assess how Sulek stacks up against top-level pros in the Classic Physique division.
Ehsan pointed out that Sulek will likely face elite competition, including names like Mike Sommerfeld. Victor agreed, noting that while Sulek may not yet be at the level to dethrone seasoned veterans, there’s no shame in that. Every pro has to start somewhere.
Andrew Jacked, Nick Walker, Hadi Choopan, & Derek Lunsford to Clash at the 2026 Arnold Classic
One of the most anticipated segments of the podcast focused on the 2026 Arnold Classic lineup, which is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in years. Andrew Jacked, Nick Walker, and Hadi Choopan have all confirmed their participation.
Victor and Ehsan both agreed that Hadi Choopan currently has the best odds to take home the title. His recent performances have been remarkably consistent, and his conditioning remains among the best in the world.
Vlad Yudin brought up an interesting point about judging standards. He noted that despite having the same judges at both the Mr. Olympia and Arnold Classic, results often differ for the same athletes. Ehsan suggested that the difference may come down to the promoters’ preferences.
Vlad called the idea controversial, but Victor declined to comment further, saying he couldn’t confirm whether the promoters influence judging outcomes.
When asked whether Nick Walker should still be considered a major threat, Victor said absolutely. However, he pointed out that Choopan’s recent track record makes him the safer bet. Still, Nick has the ability to surprise everyone if he can bring his best package to the stage.
Nick Walker Trains Without a Coach — Smart Move or Risky Play?
The final topic of the episode centered on Nick Walker’s decision to part ways with his coach and handle his own training for the time being.
Victor was open-minded about the move, saying that it depends entirely on the individual. Some athletes thrive under full independence, while others need the structure and feedback that comes from a coach.
“Some people understand their body so well that they don’t need someone else calling the shots,” Victor said. “For others, a coach helps them stay focused and accountable. It just depends.”
Ehsan added that, in most cases, having a coach tends to be beneficial. Delegating the strategic side of training allows athletes to focus purely on performance and execution.
Wrap Up
This episode of the Generation Iron Podcast blended practical fitness advice with industry insight and honest reflection on the state of bodybuilding. From breaking myths about training over 40 to analyzing the mindset of modern pros like Chris Bumstead and Nick Walker, the conversation reinforced one core message: longevity and discipline matter.
Victor Martinez’s recurring message throughout the podcast was simple but powerful—whether you’re 20 or 40, it’s never too late to grow, learn, and build. The key is consistency, self-awareness, and health above all else.
For anyone navigating fitness at any age, or simply following the evolution of modern bodybuilding, this episode delivered grounded, thoughtful insight from some of the most experienced voices in the game.
