2025 Mr. Olympia Set for Exciting Weekend in Las Vegas

Las Vegas, Nevada — The bodybuilding elite will gather in Las Vegas this weekend for Joe Weider’s Fitness and Performance Weekend, featuring the highly anticipated Mr. Olympia competition.

The event kicks off on Saturday, October 11, with pre-judging starting at 9:30 a.m. followed by the finals at 7 p.m. Competitors will vie for a total prize purse of $600,000.

Defending champion Hadi Choopan aims to retain his title after winning the event in 2024. However, he faces stiff competition from several top athletes, including Derek Lunsford, who won the prestigious Arnold Classic, and Samson Dauda, last year’s runner-up.

Choopan did not compete in the Arnold Classic, allowing Lunsford to shine, but his exceptional conditioning sets him apart in the lineup. “Conditioning is critical,” said fitness expert Jack Peters. “It’s what makes or breaks an athlete at this level.”

Nick Walker also returns this year after missing last season. Although he possesses significant size, concerns remain regarding his conditioning compared to other competitors. Similarly, Andrew Jacked showcases impressive muscle density but shares Walker’s conditioning doubts.

Notably, no bodybuilder has successfully defended their title since Jay Cutler, further increasing the stakes for Choopan. Despite the competition, sports analysts predict Lunsford may clinch the title due to his remarkable performance at the Arnold.

The Mr. Olympia competition includes other events, such as the Ms. Olympia, which will take place with pre-judging on Friday, October 10, and finals that evening. Andrea Shaw, a five-time Ms. Olympia champion, is back to defend her title.

The event will not be aired on national television but will be live-streamed for fans via a pay-per-view package priced at $74.99. With both pro and amateur events included, bodybuilding enthusiasts worldwide can tune in to support their favorite athletes.

The excitement surrounding Mr. Olympia is palpable, with both returning champions and challengers poised to make history this weekend in Las Vegas.