In a groundbreaking achievement, Samson Dauda has become the first Nigerian to win the prestigious Mr. Olympia title.
The event took place during the Olympia Weekend grand finale at the Resorts World Theatre in Las Vegas.
Dauda not only claimed the Mr. Olympia title but also won the People’s Champion award.
This victory has brought immense pride to Nigeria and the entire African continent.
Mr. Olympia is the most esteemed competition in bodybuilding, established in 1965 by Joe Weider.
Each year, the event showcases the world’s top bodybuilders, competing for glory and significant cash prizes.
This year’s competition awarded a record-breaking ₦960 million (approximately $600,000) to the winner.
Samson Dauda represented the United Kingdom at the event, further highlighting the international nature of the competition.
His journey to this remarkable achievement has not been easy.
Born on March 11, 1992, Dauda began his bodybuilding career in 2014 after moving to the UK.
Initially, he played rugby, but his passion for bodybuilding was ignited by his teammates and gym owner, Chris Jones.
“I was inspired by Phil Heath’s victory at the 2013 Mr. Olympia,” Dauda recalled. “That moment changed my life.”
Dauda quickly made a name for himself in the sport, known for his impressive physique and dedication.
In 2023, he secured a third-place finish at Mr. Olympia, setting the stage for his comeback this year.
His commitment to training and improvement has captivated fans around the world.
“Samson is a role model for so many of us,” said a fan. “He shows that with hard work, anything is possible.”
Dauda’s triumph at the 2024 Mr. Olympia not only earned him accolades but also substantial financial rewards.
With his earnings now estimated between $500,000 and $1 million, he is solidifying his status in the bodybuilding community.
His growing popularity is reflected in his social media presence, with over 922,000 followers on Instagram and a burgeoning YouTube channel.
As the first Nigerian Mr. Olympia, he serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes, particularly from underrepresented backgrounds.
He surpassed well-known athletes like Hadi Choopan and Derek Lunsford to take the ultimate prize.
His victory is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and resilience in the face of competition.
As he continues to rise in the sport, Dauda aims to inspire the next generation of bodybuilders.
“I want to show young athletes that they can achieve their dreams,” he said. “No matter where you come from, hard work pays off.”
