Joseph Baena is stepping out of a legendary shadow. Unlike his famous father, Baena is earning credibility as a natural bodybuilder, securing multiple wins and a pro card on his own terms.

Unlike his father, the great Arnold Schwarzenegger, whose legendary status as a bodybuilder was built around compounds, Baena has been pursuing a substance-free path, building his career on disciplined training and balanced nutrition.

And Arnie Jr.'s credibility isn’t just talk; it’s based on results. He made a strong impression on the bodybuilding community by securing not one but multiple victories in his debut natural bodybuilding show. He also earned his pro card within two weeks of his first victory, after securing his second win. His physique helped bust myths about what a real natural bodybuilder looks like.

The 28-year-old has always had a clear stance on compound usage. In 2024, during a podcast appearance, he set the record straight by stating:

"I never took steroids because I didn't feel like I needed it. I guess somehow it came out. I'm more interested in what would happen. A lot of people, that's like half of my comments are like 'can you finally add the juice already, bro.'"

Recently, after a fan asked him on Instagram if he was planning to make a shift to Mr. Olympia, he answered clearly that, for now, he is planning to stay natural and is not sure what the future holds for him.

Ever since his debut, Joseph Baena's natural physique has earned many fans. His social media profile is filled with praises and compliments, and questions about his future status.

Fan Reaction to Joe Baena’s Natural Status

When your dad is a bodybuilding legend, and you choose to go natural, you are bound to get people talking. And that's exactly what has happened to Joe Baena. But luckily for him, he is being hailed for his decision to choose the natural bodybuilding division.

One Instagram user commented, "Top physique old school." Another one wrote, "This is original Natty." One more similar comment said, "Hey, Natty."

One user complimented him with the comment, "Your appearance was very necessary, and I think it ended inferiority complex and unrealistic expectations in a large number of people all around the world."

One comment was, "Thanks for showing what natty looks like." Another user joked, "Bro thinks he’s Arnold’s son."

Someone asked him, "Drop the leg routine, bro."

A commentator was even predicting the future in the comments section, "Mr Universe! Calling it now."

To know more about Joe Baena's fitness journey, follow Bodybuilding Bros.

Written by

Ruwa Javed

Edited by

Ashvinkumar Patil