Arnold Classic Lineup is Here: Derek’s In, Nick Walker’s Out

[rxmuscle]

Dave Palumbo and Siddique Farooqi analyze and react to the 2025 Arnold Classic lineup announcement with expert insights.

 

[MuscleMecca Crew]

Growth of New Divisions in 2025​

Classic Physique​

Classic Physique continues to dominate the conversation, as it bridges the gap between the mass-focused Men’s Open and the aesthetic Men’s Physique divisions. In 2025, this division features heavily in key shows like the Arnold Classic and Olympia.

Wellness Division​

The Wellness Division has grown exponentially. With its focus on lower-body development and overall symmetry, the division’s popularity ensures its inclusion in nearly every major show.

Must-Attend Events by Region​

North America​

• Arnold Classic
• Olympia Weekend
• Chicago Pro

Europe​

• Europa Pro
• Prague Pro
• Nordic Championships

Asia​

• Japan Pro Show
• Shanghai Grand Prix

Australia​

• Australia Pro Grand Prix
• Sydney Classic

Tips for Competitors and Fans in 2025​

For Competitors:​

• Plan Your Calendar Early: Focus on shows offering Olympia qualification points.
• Conditioning Is Key: Judges increasingly prioritize balanced physiques over sheer size.

For Fans:​

• Book Tickets Early: Prime events like Olympia Weekend often sell out months in advance.
• Follow Updates on Social Media: Many events provide real-time coverage and live streams.

Predictions and Trends for 2025​

1. Rising Stars: Watch out for new faces in divisions like Classic Physique and Wellness.
2. Tech Integration: More events will adopt live streaming and fan engagement tools.
3. Global Expansion: Regional shows in Africa and South America are likely to gain prominence.

 

[MuscleMecca Crew]

2025 Arnold Classic Bodybuilding​

The Arnold Classic is one of the most prestigious bodybuilding events in the world, showcasing elite athletes who push the boundaries of physical excellence. The 2025 Arnold Classic promises to deliver an electrifying display of strength, conditioning, and artistry across multiple divisions. Below, we provide an in-depth analysis of the competitors, their achievements, and what to expect from this year’s lineup.

Open Bodybuilding Division​

The Open Division is the highlight of the Arnold Classic, where mass monsters vie for supremacy. This year’s roster includes seasoned veterans and rising stars, promising an intense battle on stage.

Key Competitors to Watch​

1. Brandon Curry
   • Achievements: 2019 Mr. Olympia Champion, multiple Arnold Classic titles.
   • Strengths: Symmetry, balanced muscle development, and stage presence.
   • Expectations: With his consistent top-tier conditioning, Curry remains a favorite.
2. Nick Walker
   • Achievements: 2021 Arnold Classic Champion.
   • Strengths: Dense muscle mass, impressive conditioning, and charisma.
   • Expectations: Known as "The Mutant," Walker’s relentless intensity is unmatched.
3. Andrew Jacked
   • Achievements: Rapidly ascending the ranks with multiple international wins.
   • Strengths: Aesthetic lines combined with impressive size.
   • Expectations: Jacked’s momentum and unique structure could be game-changing.

Rising Stars​

• Michal Krizo: Known for his size and detail, Krizo is making waves in the bodybuilding scene.
• Samson Dauda: With exceptional shape and proportions, Dauda is one to watch for podium contention.

Classic Physique Division​

The Classic Physique Division emphasizes aesthetics, proportions, and classic posing styles. It has grown immensely in popularity, drawing fans of Golden Era bodybuilding.

Top Contenders​

1. Chris Bumstead
   • Achievements: Four-time Mr. Olympia Classic Physique Champion.
   • Strengths: Unparalleled proportions, posing finesse, and razor-sharp conditioning.
   • Expectations: As the reigning king, Bumstead’s dominance in this division is unparalleled.
2. Ramon Rocha Queiroz
   • Achievements: Consistent top-three finisher at Olympia.
   • Strengths: Impressive muscle density and flawless symmetry.
   • Expectations: Ramon’s improvements in back thickness and detail could close the gap.
3. Urs Kalecinski
   • Achievements: Rising star with podium finishes in major contests.
   • Strengths: Sharp aesthetics and polished posing.
   • Expectations: With a growing fanbase, Urs’s charisma and conditioning could make waves.

212 Bodybuilding Division​

This division showcases athletes under 212 pounds who combine mass and symmetry with precision.

Notable Names​

• Shaun Clarida: A two-time 212 Olympia Champion, known for his dense muscle and flawless execution.
• Derek Lunsford: Though now competing in Open, his legacy in the 212 division inspires current competitors.
• Kamal Elgargni: The 2019 Olympia Champion continues to deliver classic conditioning and structure.

Women’s Divisions​

Women’s Bodybuilding​

The resurgence of women’s bodybuilding has brought fierce competition.

• Andrea Shaw: The reigning Ms. Olympia continues to set the standard with her unmatched combination of size, symmetry, and detail.
• Margie Martin: Known for her powerful physique and commanding presence.

Figure Division​

• Cydney Gillon: A dominant force with six consecutive Olympia titles, Gillon’s physique is the epitome of balance.
• Jessica Reyes Padilla: Brings detailed conditioning and elegance to the stage.

Bikini Division​

• Maureen Blanquisco: Current Bikini Olympia Champion, admired for her shape and poise.
• Ashley Kaltwasser: A legend in the division with multiple Olympia titles.

Event Schedule and Highlights​

Date	Event	Location
March 1, 2025	Prejudging (All Divisions)	Arnold Sports Festival Expo
March 2, 2025	Finals and Awards Ceremony	Battelle Grand Ballroom

Judging Criteria​

Judges will evaluate athletes based on:

• Symmetry and Proportion: Balanced development between muscle groups.
• Muscularity: Size, density, and separation.
• Conditioning: Visible striations, vascularity, and leanness.
• Presentation: Stage presence, posing, and confidence.

What to Expect at the Expo​

The Arnold Sports Festival features:

• Over 1,000 health and fitness exhibitors.
• Interactive workshops and seminars.
• Meet-and-greet opportunities with athletes and influencers.
• Powerlifting, Strongman, and combat sports events.

2025 Arnold Strongman Classic Lineup

• Mitchell Hooper
• Hafthor Björnsson
• Austin Andrade
• Bobby Thompson
• Evan Singleton
• Lucas Hatton
• Mateusz Kieliszkowski
• Maxime Boudreault
• Nick Guardione
• Tom Stoltman
• Trey Mitchell