Samson Dauda is heading to Germany before he heads to Vegas.

The 2024 Mr. Olympia champion confirmed in a recent video update that he will compete in a professional show in Germany just days before this year's Olympia, putting an end to months of speculation.

“All the time. Are you gonna do a warm-up show? And I've been getting bombarded with this constantly,” said Dauda in the Instagram video. “So the answer officially is yes, I will be doing a warm-up show.”

The decision traces back to hard lessons from 2024 and especially 2025. Dauda explained in the same Instagram video that his physique has responded so quickly to adjustments during this year's prep that his team had to reverse course mid-cycle, making peak week harder to predict than ever.

Rather than walk into peak week blind, Dauda wants real competition data. A show close to the Olympia gives his team clearer information on how his body actually performs under stage conditions, not just gym check-ins.

There's also a personal side to it. Dauda admitted he genuinely enjoys competing, and the pressure of stepping on stage remains part of what drives him.

Fans react to Dauda’s Germany competition

Reaction from the bodybuilding community has been mixed but largely intrigued. Many see it as a smart, calculated move from a champion determined not to leave anything to chance after a tougher 2025. 

“I agree, he did the same thing when he won the Olympia,” said one fan. “It will give them good feedback for the Olympia peak and the fans will love it!”

Another fan gave his positive take on Dauda’s decision. 

“This is really cool, and I wish more pros did this.”

A fan reminisced about his past, drawing comparisons to his 2024 win.

“His winning the Olympia. This sounds way too familiar.”

Another fan went into the art of bodybuilding and how this will help Dauda at the Mr. Olympia

“I guess the value is that you get to do a peak week simulation but have it done live when it counts. I’ve done several simulation weeks before my show but never on stage. This should be interesting.”

“He wins easy,” said a fan, totally confident in Dauda’s ability to win.

Dauda's decision adds fresh intrigue to an already stacked 2026 Olympia season.

Do you think competing in Germany helps or hurts Dauda's Olympia chances? 

Written by

Zaid Quraishi