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The 2026 Arnold Classic is officially underway in Columbus, Ohio this weekend with two of bodybuilding’s most elite divisions taking center stage. The Men’s Open prejudging kicks off Friday afternoon, while the Classic Physique showdown happens today with 12 world-class competitors vying for glory.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Event Dates: March 5-8, 2026 at the Greater Columbus Convention Center
- Men’s Open Prize: Champions win $750,000 and a prestigious trophy
- Classic Physique Lineup: 12 elite competitors including defending champion Mike Sommerfeld
- Schedule: Prejudging Friday at 12:30 PM, Finals at 7:00 PM Friday night at Battelle Grand
Classic Physique Showdown Ready to Crown a New Champion
The Arnold Classic Physique division features 12 of the world’s best classic physique athletes, with defending champion Mike Sommerfeld of Germany leading the charge. Sommerfeld won the 2025 title dominantly, defeating Logan Franklin and Matthew Greggo to secure back-to-back victories. His conditioning and size advantage make him the favorite to repeat, though the field is loaded with hungry contenders ready to dethrone him.
This year’s lineup represents the cream of the crop in classic physique competition. Wesley Vissers, the 2024 Arnold Classic champion from the Netherlands, is determined for redemption after finishing fifth last year due to illness. Sam Sulek, making his professional debut, brings jaw-dropping conditioning that has fans excited about his potential as the next generational talent in the division.
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Men’s Open Features Reigning Olympia Champion
The Men’s Open division boasts an incredible roster led by Hadi Choopan, the former Mr. Olympia champion competing at the Arnold for high stakes. Andrew Jacked is expected to make serious noise after finishing third at the 2025 Olympia, just behind Choopan. Martin Fitzwater, Nick Walker, and returning champion Brandon Curry will battle for the coveted title and massive prize money.
The Men’s Open competition has raised the bar significantly. With $750,000 on the line for first place, every competitor is bringing their absolute best package. Derek Lunsford, the reigning Mr. Olympia champion, has shared his top picks for the show, indicating the depth and unpredictability of this legendary division.
2026 Arnold Classic Classic Physique Competitors
| Star Contenders | Background |
| Mike Sommerfeld | Defending champion, two-time Olympia runner-up in 2024-2025 |
| Wesley Vissers | 2024 Arnold winner seeking redemption after fifth place finish in 2025 |
| Sam Sulek | Pro debut dark horse with elite conditioning, won Arnold Amateur 2025 |
| Andrea Mammoli | Back-to-back pro winner, eager to prove potential on major stage |
“Mike Sommerfeld stands tall as the on-paper favorite coming off two consecutive runner-up finishes at the Mr. Olympia, making him more motivated than ever to defend his Arnold Classic title.”
— Generation Iron Fitness Network, Event Analysis
Historic Venue and Global Celebration
The event takes place at the Greater Columbus Convention Center, the home of the legendary Arnold Sports Festival that honors Arnold Schwarzenegger‘s legacy. Prejudging sessions occur Friday afternoon with finals happening the same evening at the Battelle Grand Ballroom. Fans worldwide can access free livestreams by signing up on ArnoldSports.com. The festival has grown into one of the most prestigious bodybuilding events globally, attracting elite athletes from every continent.
The 2026 edition is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory. Multiple divisions compete across the weekend, including Men’s Physique, Bikini, Wellness, Fitness, and Pro Wheelchair categories. Tickets are available for those wanting the full in-person experience, though booth access to the Arnold Expo differs from live show tickets.
Will This Be the Year of an Upset at the Arnold Classic 2026?
Sam Sulek’s pro debut has commentators buzzing about possible surprises in Classic Physique. Andrea Mammoli, coming off consecutive pro victories, could shock favorites with his dedication and dry conditioning. Matheus Menegate proved his worth at the 2025 Mr. Olympia with a seventh-place finish, suggesting he’s capable of challenging the elite here. Ethan Gohari and Hang Niu have also earned respect this season with key victories. The question isn’t whether upsets are possible, but which hungry competitor will seize the moment against established stars. Will tradition hold with defending champion Sommerfeld, or will a younger athlete claim their breakthrough victory?
Sources
- Generation Iron Fitness Network – Live results and comprehensive coverage of all 2026 Arnold Classic divisions
- Fitness Volt – Expert preview analysis of Classic Physique contenders and dark horse predictions
- Arnold Sports Festival Official – Event schedule, competitor lineups, and prize information for 2026
