Is Nick Walker more muscular than Hadi Choopan? Former bodybuilder Fouad Abiad certainly thinks so.

With only two weeks left for the 2026 Arnold Classic, the scrutiny upon this year's line-up is deep, with every bodybuilding expert giving their take on every contestant. On February 12, the Real Bodybuilding Network podcast saw Sam Hayer and bodybuilding veteran Fouad Abiad discuss Nick Walker's readiness.

"When I see Nick's side shots, especially side chest, nobody can compete with it. Side chest is Nick's all day long. Back double bicep is Nick's all day long. Back double, back lat, side tricep is if he won."

Comparing him to this year's favorite contender, Hadi Choopan, he predicted that he was in contention to be the most muscular.

"When Nick is standing next to Hadi, Nick is gonna own that most muscular [pose]. This is why I keep saying to people when they say, 'Well, Nick is out for sure.' If Nick's in shape, he's going to win 4 or 5 poses. I can almost guarantee it."

It might be a surprising claim for some fans. Walker finished the 2025 Mr. Olympia in sixth place while Choopan was the runner-up. However, as fans may remember, Walker won the Arnold as a rookie. And after Mr. Olympia 2026, the bodybuilder sent a determined message about competing in 2026. And he has a plan as well.

"Of course, I’ll have an eye of close people around me. I’m going to do this myself, I’m tired of coaches. I don’t want anyone around. I know what I need to do, what works and doesn’t work for my body. And you know, it’s already working. We’re going to handle business my way."

Is Nick Walker ready for the 2026 Arnold Classic?

Being one of the top contenders for the Arnold Classic gets you noticed easily, and Nick Walker is no exception. Abiad and Hayer weren't the only ones observing Nick Walker's progress.

Recently, former bodybuilders Shawn Ray and Bob Cicherillo got together for their Voice of Bodybuilding podcast and discussed his chances of winning.

"He's got shortcomings when it comes to his shape and proportions. Those guys don't. So, he's automatically got an uphill fight. Does that mean he absolutely cannot win? No, but he's going to need help. I think from those guys, coming in off."

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Written by

Ruwa Javed

Edited by

Siddharth Shirwadkar