Samson Dauda looks back at his bodybuilding origins and past Mr. Olympia performances – with an eye changing the game at the 2024 Olympia
The first episode of GI Conversation With the 2023 Arnold Classic, Samson Dauda offers an intimate look into the life, career, and mindset of one of bodybuilding’s rising stars. Hosted by director Vlad Yudin, known for his work on the groundbreaking documentary Generation Iron, the series delves into Samson Dauda’s journey from a passionate athlete to a top contender for the 2024 Mr. Olympia title. In this episode, Samson reflects on his rapid rise in the sport, his transition from rugby to bodybuilding, and the pivotal moments that shaped his career.
The Beginnings: From Rugby to Bodybuilding
The episode kicks off with an introduction by Vlad Yudin, who expresses his excitement to sit down with Samson Dauda, one of the sport’s most compelling figures. Samson shares how the Generation Iron movie profoundly impacted his decision to pursue bodybuilding. Initially, he saw bodybuilding as a niche, underground sport, far removed from his rugby background. However, the film’s portrayal of the sport’s intensity and artistry ignited a passion that transformed his life.
When asked about his meteoric rise, Samson Dauda explains that while it might seem like he burst onto the scene quickly, his journey began long before he was recognized on the professional stage. “I’ve been competing since 2017,” Samson notes, highlighting that his initial years were spent in the shadows of smaller shows before gaining significant recognition in 2022. It wasn’t an overnight success; rather, it was the result of years of dedication and persistence.
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Rugby Roots: A Foundation of Strength and Discipline
Vlad dives into Samson Dauda’s background as a rugby player, exploring how his early athletic pursuits shaped his approach to bodybuilding. Samson reveals that rugby was not just a sport for him but a transformative experience that allowed him to channel his energy and aggression in a constructive way. “Rugby was the first sport that got me out of my shell,” Samson recalls. Despite rugby’s rough nature, with injuries being a common occurrence, Samson found the sport addictive. The mud, the cold, and the adrenaline of the game were integral parts of his upbringing.
Although Samson admits he misses rugby, he acknowledges that his current size and slower pace would not suit the sport today. He playfully imagines a future where he could partake in “old gentlemanly games” with other former players, but he ultimately recognizes that his choice to focus on bodybuilding was the right one. Bodybuilding offered him a more controlled and sustainable career path, where he could avoid the physical toll that rugby might have inflicted long-term.
The Move from Nigeria to the UK: A Pivotal Shift
Samson’s journey to becoming a top bodybuilder was not just about switching sports; it also involved a significant geographical shift. Born in Nigeria, Samson moved to the UK at the age of 16, seeking better educational and economic opportunities. He explains that while bodybuilding is gaining traction in Nigeria, it still lacks the infrastructure and resources needed to support a professional career in the sport. “Bodybuilding requires a lot of food and a big calorie diet,” Samson explains, noting that maintaining such a lifestyle would have been nearly impossible in his home country.
The move to the UK provided Samson with the environment and resources necessary to pursue his bodybuilding dreams. He reflects on the challenges and opportunities that came with this transition, expressing gratitude for the path that led him to where he is today.
Inspiration from Legends: Phil Heath and Flex Wheeler
Samson credits much of his motivation and inspiration to legendary bodybuilders Phil Heath and Flex Wheeler. Phil Heath, who dominated the Mr. Olympia stage during Samson’s early years in the sport, had a physique that was almost otherworldly to Samson. “It made me think that a human being could look like that,” he shares, emphasizing how these athletes made bodybuilding feel attainable.
Flex Wheeler’s combination of aesthetic beauty and sheer muscle mass also inspired Samson. His goal was never to emulate them completely but to capture a fraction of their excellence in his own journey. Their achievements made Samson believe that greatness in bodybuilding was within his reach.
Climbing the Ranks: The Road to Mr. Olympia
Vlad touches on Samson Dauda’s impressive performance at the 2023 Mr. Olympia, where he placed third. Samson reflects on the experience, saying he knew it would be a close battle among himself, Derek Lunsford, and Hadi Choopan. He did not necessarily expect Lunsford to win, but he recognized that whoever took the title would have truly earned it. For Samson, placing third at his second Olympia after a sixth-place finish the previous year was a dream come true.
The public often views his rapid ascent as a “meteoric rise,” but for Samson Dauda, it was the culmination of years of hard work. The pressure of being a top contender doesn’t weigh him down; instead, it fuels his excitement. Samson recalls watching Pumping Iron and Generation Iron repeatedly during his early bodybuilding days. To now be part of that elite circle of athletes is, in his words, “a dream come true.”
The Arnold Classic Victory: A Turning Point
Samson Dauda also reflects on his victory at the Arnold Classic 2023, a milestone that further solidified his place among bodybuilding’s elite. After placing fourth in the Arnold Classic 2022, Samson set his sights on the following year’s competition, only 11 weeks after the Olympia. Fueled by his performance at the Olympia, Samson dedicated himself to his training, ultimately winning the prestigious title. This victory was not just a testament to his physical prowess but also a validation of his relentless drive and commitment.
Looking Ahead: The Road to Mr. Olympia 2024
As the episode concludes, it’s clear that Samson Dauda is more than just a rising star—he’s a formidable force poised to make a significant impact in the sport of bodybuilding. His journey from the rugby fields of his youth to the competitive bodybuilding stage is a testament to his resilience, passion, and unwavering belief in his potential. With his sights set firmly on the 2024 Mr. Olympia title, Samson Dauda’s story is far from over.
This episode of “GI Conversation With Samson Dauda” offers just a glimpse into the mindset of an athlete who is not just chasing greatness but is actively shaping his legacy in the world of bodybuilding.
