Tag: Hadi Choopan
Former Manager Claims Hadi Choopan Injects Synthol To Improve His Physique
Hadi Choopan’s former manager, Mahdi Parsafar, and his brother, Hadi Parsafar, have posted damning claims against the bodybuilder.
Hadi Choopan’s former manager, Hadi Parsafar, has claimed that Choopan injects his physique with synthol – calling Choopan the “Synthol People’s Champion” in an Instagram post. This claim was made after the managing brothers Hadi and Mahdi parted ways with the bodybuilder, allegedly due to Choopan firing the Parsafar brothers.
Hadi Parsafar shared an Instagram story on Friday afternoon sharing the news. He also shared a reel on social media explaining further.
Sources close to Generation Iron were able to translate the message:
“I don’t want to waste time with Mr. Synthol and homeless. He has to come to the court and answer questions. He wants to get YouTube channel but you bury this wish.”
– Hadi Parsafar
The above comment appears to reference Hadi Choopan’s YouTube channel. The channel was run by Mahdi and Hadi Parsafar and was in fact originally Mahdi’s channel before he re-branded it as Choopan’s upon managing him.
Eventually Mahdi took the channel back and, allegedly, received sudden take down notices from Hadi Choopan. This seems to have happened shortly after Choopan allegedly fired the managing brothers.
In the following story post – Hadi Parsafar simply calls Hadi Choopan the “Synthol People’s Champion.”
Mahdi Parsafar was the long time manager of Hadi Choopan alongside his brother. Not only that, but Mahdi and Choopan were known to be longtime friends since childhood. Mahdi Parsafar put his focus on putting Iranian bodybuilding onto the global stage. Choopan was the shining highlight of his achievements as a manager and his goal to represent Iran as a powerhouse nation for pro bodybuilding.
Hadi Choopan’s Rise In Bodybuilding
Hadi Choopan first started catching attention as an incredible Men’s 212 bodybuilder. Many thought he would be talented enough to defeat the then reigning Olympia champion – Flex Lewis. This battle never came to fruition and Lewis ultimately retired from the sport. And Choopan ultimately had his eyes set on a different sort of prize.
Hadi Choopan shocked the bodybuilding world when he made his debut Men’s Open debut on the Olympia stage in 2019. Even more surprising was that he earned a third place finish. Despite having an overall smaller size and frame – his conditioning was so on point and his aesthetics so impressive – that he earned a place as a true threat to the Mr. Olympia title.
Choopan later returned to the stage in 2020 and dropped one spot before returning to the top-three in 2021. Despite his finish, there are many that believe Choopan should have been crowned champion in October.
Choopan finished third behind Brandon Curry and two-time reigning champion Big Ramy. There is a clear top-tier of competitors and Choopan is part of that group. Hunter Labrada and Nick Walker are looking to insert their names into the conversation after a fourth- and fifth-place finish respectively.
Choopan is coached by Hany Rambod, who has handled some of the top talents in bodybuilding history. This include seven-time Olympia champ Phil Heath. Rambod led the charge of those who believed that Choopan sported the best physique on stage in last year’s competition.
Previous Hadi Choopan Synthol Rumors
After the 2021 Mr. Olympia, rumor began to spread that Hadi Choopan was using synthol to improve his physique – specifically in his delts. While there was no proof, internet sleuths took to the internet to compare photos and try to validate their claims.
Hadi Parsafar’s latest statements seem to be the first “insider” accusation of Hadi Choopan using synthol. While his brother, Mahdi, did not make the exact same comment – both brothers have been posting on their instagram revealing the sudden fractured nature of their relationship with Choopan.
Below is a translation of Mahdi’s description for the video posted above:
“Time passed and history repeats! Parsafar will not pay a ransom to someone bigger than you! Because it’s not dependent on anyone! And his band has been and is in his own pocket and raised thousands of people! You didn’t learn from the past! Wait for a long response.”
This story is still developing and will be updated as more information becomes available. For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Hadi Choopan Shares Physique Update During Olympia Prep: Can He Take Home The 2022 Title?
Hadi Choopan continues to look extremely conditioned during his prep.
There are many who believe that Hadi Choopan showed up to the Olympia in October in the best shape. It seems as though Choopan is continuing to dominate his prep after sharing a physique update showing off his crazy conditioning and size.
Choopan took to Instagram to share a physique and posing update on Tuesday. In the video, Choopan is seen hitting some of his favorite poses that help him on stage. On stage last year, Choopan made glaring improvements to his physique, which already had him stamped in the top three or four competitors. Now, he is hitting the offseason hard once again in hopes of bringing home the Sandow Trophy.
“My beauty is the creation of God and the help of millions of people”
Is 2022 The Year For Hadi Choopan?
Hadi Choopan made his debut on the Olympia stage in 2019, where he finished third. He returned to the stage in 2020 and dropped one spot before returning to the top-three in 2021. Despite his finish, there are many that believe Choopan should have been crowned champion in October.
Choopan finished third behind Brandon Curry and two-time reigning champion Big Ramy. There is a clear top-tier of competitors and Choopan is part of that group. Hunter Labrada and Nick Walker are looking to insert their names into the conversation after a fourth- and fifth-place finish respectively.
Hadi Choopan shared a physique update back in March where it is clear that he put on some more size. In this update, he has worked on conditioning and is looking absolutely shredded. The work that Choopan puts in cannot be questioned and this puts him in a good position moving forward.
Choopan is coached by Hany Rambod, who has handled some of the top talents in bodybuilding history. This include seven-time Olympia champ Phil Heath. Rambod led the charge of those who believed that Choopan sported the best physique on stage in last year’s competition. Now, the duo will look to take the next step.
Hadi Choopan has remained extremely consistent over the years and continues to make improvements to a championship-caliber physique. It seems as though each physique update shows a competitor getting closer and closer to being stage ready.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Nick Walker On Hadi Choopan: ‘He Has the Ability To Win The Olympia As Much As I Do’
Nick Walker believes that Hadi Choopan flies under the radar a bit in bodybuilding.
Hadi Choopan has turned into one of the best bodybuilders in the world but is there a chance that he is still a bit underrated? Nick Walker recently spoke on Choopan during a recent Q&A and feels like he is not mentioned as much as he should be.
Choopan does not appear on stage much but his preparation is up there with the best in the world. Despite Visa issues in the past, he has competed at the Olympia in each of the last three years. Choopan began competing professionally in 2013 and earned a gold medal at the Amateur Olympia in 2018. After another victory during the 2019 Vancouver Pro, Choopan finished third at the Olympia that same year. The 2020 show saw Choopan finish fourth.
In 2021, Hadi Choopan was able to make it to Orlando and many thought he showed up with the best physique. Choopan finished third, behind Big Ramy and Brandon Curry, but this was a controversial victory. There were many around bodybuilding that believed Choopan was the best-conditioned competitor at the show.
This is where Nick Walker began his answers when discussing Choopan.
“I don’t think Hadi gets mentioned as much because he’s probably a little smaller but he has the ability to win the Olympia just as much as I do. His conditioning was second to none and backstage, he was the most impressive bodybuilder,” Walker explained.
Hadi Choopan edged out Hunter Labrada and Nick Walker, who finished fourth and fifth respectively at the Olympia. Walker is not the first competitor to say that Choopan showed up in the best shape.
Nick Walker also took some time to discuss Blessing Awodibu, who used to have a bit of a rivalry with Walker. This stemmed from previous competitions but they have seemed to settle any differences. The two have since began training together on multiple occasions and Walker believes Awodibu is going to be a dark-horse this year.
“I think Blessing is going to surprise us and I think he’s going to place really, really well.”
The 2022 Olympia is scheduled to take place in December and returning to Las Vegas. There are many competitors near the top that can win the show and this includes both Nick Walker and Hadi Choopan.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Hadi Choopan Gives Off Season Physique Update, Does Intense Training
Hadi Choopan gives impressive physique update.
Hadi Choopan gives an off season update and looks really impressive. The Persian bodybuilder is looking like a world beater as he engages in some intense training.
Ah the off season, the time when all the magic happens. The off season is the opportunity for a bodybuilding competitor to put in the work necessary to become a champion. You can’t possibly take things to the next level without putting in the work behind the scenes. By the time a competitor makes it to the stage all the work has already been done.
Top level bodybuilding competitor Hadi Choopan is in the midst of his own off season and is looking impressive.
There’s no question, Hadi Choopan is a top contender for best in the world. The Persian bodybuilder has been on top of his game in the last several years. He even closed in on an Olympia championship a number of times landing in the top five on more than one occasion. But there’s still room for improvement and Choopan plans on doing just that.
Working with revered coach Hani Rambod to improve his physique, Hadi Choopan is looking more and more impressive with every camp. There’s no question that if Choopan continues to work with Rambod that he could likely once again crack the top three at the Olympia.
Always focus on improvement and never give up!
But before he can make it to the Olympia stage Hadi Choopan will have to prove he’s worthy of his position. That means Choopan will have to contend at an Olympia qualifier and conquer the competition.
Looking to bring something special to the stage, Hadi Choopan is putting in some intense training in preparation.
Start in a way that sounds like an atom☝?☝?☝?☝?
Hadi Choopan is looking much more bulked up and stage ready even now.
What do you think of Hadi Choopan and his off season update?
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
News and Editorial Writer at Generation Iron, Jonathan Salmon is a writer, martial arts instructor, and geek culture enthusiast. Check out his YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and Sound Cloud for in-depth MMA analysis.
10 Best Calves: Who Has The Best Calves In Bodybuilding?
Here is a list of the 10 best calves in bodybuilding.
When we look at those bodybuilders we love, we see all of those massive vanity muscles but may neglect to check out their calves. Calves are a sign that you value leg day and don’t settle for an average physique. Working your lower half and putting special emphasis on your calves lets everyone know you mean business. For those of us who compete, it makes no sense to skip out on our calves.
If you tend to slack in the gym when it comes to building those calves, looking at these professionals will most definitely get you to reconsider. With the right training plan to target your calves, you can be on your way to seeing serious calf growth like these pro bodybuilders themselves. If you’ve ever wondered who has the best calves in bodybuilding, look no further than here and check these bodybuilders who know just what’s up
We’ve put together a list of the 10 best calves in bodybuilding so you have an image of what it takes to compete at the highest of levels. With the right approach to training, nutrition, and supplementation, you not only will have a lower body that others will envy, but your calves will be something extraordinary. So, without delaying anymore, let’s take a look at the 10 best calves for bodybuilding.
10 Best Calves In Bodybuilding
Big Ramy
Big Ramy is your most recent Olympia champion, taking home the title in 2021 and defending his win from 2020. He earned his pro card in 2012 and has been a force ever since. His calves are massive and lend credence to his back-to-back Olympia wins, on top of all the other muscles he works incredibly hard.
Brandon Curry
Brandon Curry took home Mr. Olympia’s top prize in 2019, preceding Big Ramy. Curry was a football player early in his career and since transitioning to bodybuilding has made his name as an incredible muscular specimen. With a killer workout plan, his calves are ones to envy and show just what it takes to continue to compete at a high level.
Kai Greene
Kai Greene is a well-known bodybuilder who loves to have fun while also looking huge. He has quite a few runner-up finishes, but that hasn’t stopped him from being anything short of dominant. Starring in Generation Iron, fans got to see how he works out and how his revolutionary approach to bodybuilding has produced massive calves.
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Jay Cutler
Jay Cutler is a four-time Olympia winner and someone to envy for he is absolutely massive. Appearing in magazines, starting his own company, and being an open supporter of bodybuilding as the sport it is came from hard work and dedication and the way he trains is nothing short of intense. His calf muscles pop and when he turns around, we all certainly see them, and most likely envy them.
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Phil Heath
Phil Heath is a huge name in bodybuilding with seven Olympia wins under his belt. His overall physique has earned him the reputation of being one of the most muscular men on the planet and by the looks of his calves, together with his overall physique, it is no wonder why. Heath remains a massive name and one that both aspiring and professional bodybuilders look up to.
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William Bonac
William Bonac is incredibly humble, an impressive trait considering his monster calves. He is always in the top finishing spots in competitions, and he continues to live up to his nickname as “The Conqueror” while remaining a down-to-Earth competitor. Although he may fall short of those top podium spots, his physique, and especially his calves, are not ones to take lightly.
Chris Bumstead
Chris Bumstead is an absolute force in the Classic Physique division with three Olympia wins. His shredded physique is impressive, but so too are his calves. His workouts prove that he is constantly challenging himself to see the best gains possible.
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Dorian Yates
Dorian Yates, or known by some as the original mass monster, revolutionized bodybuilding with his intense style of training and sheer will to lift massive amounts of weight. A six-time Olympia winner, Yates is considered one of the best in the sport among many of the other top names we all know and love. When he turns around, especially in his prime, his calves are huge and incredibly hard to miss.
Hadi Choopan
Hadi Choopan turns around and the first thing you see are those strong and impressive calves. His resume is extensive and his will to win is something to be feared. His approach to training is one that keeps him at a high level and he never neglects those calf muscles, thus giving him the ability to continue to stalk the stage with these other bodybuilding giants.
Nick Walker
Nick Walker, like all on this list, has an impressive bodybuilding resume and recently joined the list of those big names to win the Arnold Classic. He loves machine exercises and that lends credence to the sheer size of his massive calf muscles and lower body as a whole. Known as “The Mutant”, he is not one to be messed with when it comes to comparing muscle size.
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Wrap Up
Working our calves is something that cannot be understated. By giving yourself the benefit of taking leg day seriously, you beef up your lower half and give those calf muscles time to grow. With the right training, nutrition, and supplementation, you allow yourself the benefit of seeing seriously muscle growth, so when you turn around, others have no choice but to envy you. Hopefully this list of the best calves in bodybuilding inspires you to want to see serious growth, for what they can do for your overall physique is nothing short of impressive.
What do you think of this list? Are these the 10 best calves in bodybuilding, or does someone else impress you even more?
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
10 Best Backs In Bodybuilding & On The Internet
Here is a list of the 10 best backs in bodybuilding, also seen on social media!
Bodybuilders are all around impressive mass monsters, however, those with massive backs need to be applauded. While so many people work their front, really beefing up their chests, biceps, and abs, it is an incredible disservice to neglect your back. A massive back can be an impressive sight and these bodybuilders certainly know how to get it done.
If you slack off in the gym and neglect your back, these will definitely put yours to shame. As Olympia competitors and seriously dedicated athletes, what it takes to have a back like this is something else. So, if you’ve ever wondered who has the best backs in bodybuilding, we’ve done the hard work for you by putting it all in one place.
10 Best Backs In Bodybuilding
1. Big Ramy
Mamdouh “Big Ramy” Elssbiay is an Egyptian bodybuilder and two-time Olympia winner, taking first back-to-back in 2020 and 2021. Since earning his pro card in 2012, he has been nothing but dominant on the pro circuit. His workouts and strict attention to detail have produced a massive back and one clearly worthy of back-to-back Olympia titles.
2. Brandon Curry
Brandon Curry took home the Mr. Olympia title in 2019, just before Big Ramy began his amazing run. As a football player early on, Curry had a physique waiting to be unleashed and his thick muscular appearance lends credence to his massive back.
3. Kai Greene
Kai Greene is one of the bodybuilders to envy and his overall physique lets his back pop. As an Olympia competitor with loads of runner-up finishes, his breakout role in Generation Iron gave fans an insight into Kai and his amazing work ethic. He seeks to create a revolutionary approach to bodybuilding to constantly improve the sport.
4. Phil Heath
Phil Heath is a seven-time Olympia winner with a reputation for being one of the most muscular men on the planet. Overall, Phil is massive and his approach to training is something that pro and aspiring bodybuilders can strive towards.
5. Hadi Choopan
Hadi Choopan has an impressive bodybuilding resume and is a force to be reckoned with. When he turns around, his back is something to envy and as a constant competitor in the pro circuit, his approach to training only continues gains to his back and overall physique.
6. Hunter Labrada
Hunter Labrada has found a great routine over the years working to reduce his volume at times and allowing his body to catch up to his intense training routines. With a massive back to prove his physique is competition worthy, this bodybuilder is a force on the pro circuit when he turns around.
7. Nick Walker
Nick Walker joined the list of big names to win the Arnold Classic, among other competitions, and his giant back is just one of his many physical attributes. With a focus on machine exercises, Nick continues to build a bigger back so those pop every chance they can.
8. William Bonac
William Bonac has a humble attitude and drive to be the best and his top three finishes in many competitions proves his hard work. When he turns around, it separates him from other notable pros and his nickname as “The Conqueror” certainly becomes reality.
9. Chris Bumstead
Chris Bumstead is a three-time Olympia champ in the Classic Physique division and continues to amaze with his shredded aesthetic. He is constantly changing up his back routine to challenge his muscles and continue to build an amazing back for all to envy.
10. Andrea Shaw
Andrea Shaw is a two-time Ms. Olympia winner with wins in 2020 and 2021. Her approach to training has kept her dominant on the pro circuit and her shredded back is something all aspiring bodybuilders can aim for.
Wrap Up
Building a massive back is something to not take for granted. When you turn around, people should envy your entire physique. For those of us who work their biceps, chest, abs, and others impressive muscles, the back is one of those things that can make or break results. These bodybuilders have amazing and impressive backs and put a real emphasis on building these muscles so they can continue dominance on the professional level.
What do you think? Do these backs live up to the hype?
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Talking Huge With Craig Golias | EP 18: Shaun Clarida & Flex Lewis’ Men’s Open Future
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Craig Golias reacts to Shaun Clarida’s Men’s Open win and debates about his potential in Men’s Open Olympia alongside Flex Lewis and Hadi Choopan.
Welcome to another episode of Talking Huge – a weekly digital series in which Craig Golias talks in-depth with Vlad Yudin on the latest trending topics in bodybuilding. Raw, honest, and uncut – Craig Golias shares his opinions on all things bodybuilding. In this episode, Craig Golias discusses the growing number of Men’s 212 athletes moving to Men’s Open including Shaun Clarida, Flex Lewis, and Hadi Choopan. He also talks thoughts on Only Fans and neck training.
The bodybuilding season might be coming to a close but there’s still a lot of exciting news coming out of the sport post Olympia. While the European Tour is no where near as momentous as it was in decades past, some interesting results have surfaced over the last few weeks. The biggest news was not simply Shaun Clarida winning a Men’s Open competition – but his announcement that he wants to try and compete in both Men’s 212 and Men’s Open Olympia next year.
This news alongside Hadi Choopan’s switch two years ago and the impending debut of Flex Lewis in Men’s Open is bringing a wave of Men’s 212 athletes into Men’s Open. How will it all turn out? Vlad Yudin connected with Craig Golias for a new episode of Talking Huge to discuss at length. Let’s jump into it.
Shaun Clarida’s Men’s Open Victory
At the Legion Sports Fest Pro 2021, Shaun Clarida turned heads by announcing he would compete in the Men’s Open division. This put him against the likes of Regan Grimes and Sergio Oliva Jr. Even more surprising were the results – Clarida beat out Grimes and Oliva Jr. for his first victory in Men’s Open. We asked Craig Golias his thoughts on the victory.
While Craig Golias congratulates Shaun Clarida for the victory – he doesn’t see this as a big change for Clarida’s career. In Craig’s opinion, Clarida wasn’t going up against the best of the best Men’s Open competitors. Craig also points out that Clarida isn’t just any Men’s 212 athlete – he’s the former Olympia champion. A Men’s 212 Olympia champion going against a lineup of non-Olympia champion Men’s Open competitors is very different than if Clarida was competing in the Men’s Open Mr. Olympia.
Of course, it seems that Shaun Clarida knows this as well. He’s already made a statement in a recent interview claiming that he’d like to try and compete in the Men’s Open Olympia. In his perfect world, he’d be allowed to compete in both Men’s 212 and Men’s Open. If and when that occurs, we’ll be sure to follow up with Craig Golias on his take.
The Bigger Picture: More Men’s 212 Athletes Move To Men’s Open
We also asked Craig Golias his opinion in the wider view regarding Men’s 212. Over the past few years, a handful of impressive Men’s 212 athletes have moved over into Men’s Open. Hadi Choopan has been competing in Men’s Open Olympia for three years and has made it into the top 5 each year. Flex Lewis has been preparing for his Men’s Open debut at Mr. Olympia – but has not yet competed due to personal circumstances. And now – Shaun Clarida looks to be making waves in Men’s Open.
Could this be a signal that size is starting to play less importance in Men’s Open? After decades of “mass monster” physiques reigning supreme, will aesthetics start edging out size as a deciding factor for victory? Craig Golias is excited to see what happens. He’s curious to see what Shaun Clarida can do in Men’s Open Olympia. He’s by far the shortest competitor in Men’s 212 to make the transition. Craig is most excited for Flex Lewis. He believes if any Men’s 212 competitor could move up and win Men’s Open Olympia – it would be Lewis.
Wrap Up
There are far more topics discussed in this episode than we can cover in this article. Craig Golias also discusses the world of Only Fans and if he would ever make an account. He also talks about neck training and gives an update on his nerve damage injury. You can check it all out in the latest episode of Talking Huge above! Make sure to check out Talking Huge every week on Friday – only on the Generation Iron Fitness Network!
Hadi Choopan Reveals Posing Routine Ahead Of 2021 Olympia
Hadi Choopan looks ready for the 2021 Olympia in recent video showing posing routine.
In the past, Hadi Choopan has not had an ideal amount of time to prepare for the Olympia because of difficulty with travel. This year, Choopan is showing that with the necessary amount of time, he will be ready to go. In a recent video on Facebook, Choopan is seen showing off a posing routine ahead of the biggest event of the year.
On a ‘Persian Wolf’ Facebook page, Choopan is looking massive during a posing routine.
In early September, Choopan arrived in the United States to compete in the Olympia. In 2020, Choopan arrived right before the competition and did not have ample time to prepare. This year, he had about six weeks to prepare and get everything in line. If this recent video is any indication, Choopan is ready to compete at the highest level.
In the video, Choopan is showing off his physique and incredible mass. His waist is looking small while his arms and legs look competition ready. Choopan has had success at the Olympia in recent years and has a chance to improve further.
In 2018, Choopan competed in the Olympia 212 and placed 16th. He went onto win the Asian Grand Prix 212 that year before transitioning to Men’s Bodybuilding. He won the Vancouver Pro in 2019 and this is where his Olympia success began. In 2019, Choopan placed third at the biggest event of the year and was fourth last year.
Despite not having necessary time to prepare, Choopan has been able to put on a strong performance over the years. Heading into this year’s Olympia, Choopan will have some expectations.
Hadi Chopin has been training with Hany Rambod, who has worked with some of the biggest names in the sport. This is an advantage as Choopan has not been able to compete since last year’s Olympia.
There is plenty to look forward to in Orlando this year and Choopan is one of the big names to watch heading into the event.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Hadi Choopan Has Arrived In America To Compete In 2021 Olympia
Hadi Choopan will be back on stage for the year’s biggest competition.
Hadi Choopan has struggled with getting into the United States over the years to compete at the biggest competitions. That will not be an issue this year as Choopan has arrived with about six weeks left to prepare for the 2021 Olympia.
This was an issue last year. The Iranian bodybuilder arrived at the last minute to compete in the Olympia and placed fourth. There were worries that he would not make it at all but he arrived just in time. This year, Choopan will have plenty of time to do any necessary preparation and training leading up to the event.
Hany Rambod, a bodybuilding coach who has worked with some of the biggest names in the sport, announced Choopan’s arrival on his Instagram page.
“@hadi_choopan has Landed in the USA ?? to prepare for the 2021 @mrolympiallc !!!Thank you to our amazing team @hadiparsafar @parsafar_mahdi and @ad_supplements in the UAE without them this wouldn’t be possible! I couldn’t have asked for a better team! ????Now let the MF games begin!!!! ???”
Rodman has trained many top athletes and has been quite successful. He is a 19-time Olympia winning coach — including seven with legendary bodybuilder Phil Heath. Rodman will look to get another with Hadi Choopan, who has fared well in the competition in recent years.
Choopan has not been able to compete on stage since last year’s Olympia. He qualified this year by placing fourth in last year’s event. Despite being offstage for long, Choopan seems to be in incredible shape. This is no surprise as Choopan has placed well in recent years. This includes a third-place finish during the 2019 Olympia.
Hadi Choopan also took to Instagram to announce that he is here and will be ready to compete with the time comes.
“I would like to thank US authority in immigration and citizenship and specially thanks to us consulate @usainuae in dubai which facilitated and grante me a us entry permission in a proper time.
Thanks to my dearest brother and coach @hanyrambod and his family plus my sponsor @evogennutritionthat, like alwayes helped me to obtain my visa and get to USA and in addition, they will care about me in all aspects in this historical journey
Thanks to my brother Mr Saif for their hospitality and support in UAE @ad_supplementsAlwayes appriciated
We are here to make a new history let see…”
It will be interesting to See how Hadi Choopan performs with time to prepare for the event. If social media is any indication, he seems to be excited and ready to compete in Orlando.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Samir Bannout Answers: Is There A Middle East Movement Dominating Bodybuilding?
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Samir Bannout analyzes the rise of Middle Eastern bodybuilders and the future of bodybuilding champions.
Samir Bannout has the distinction of being the first Middle Eastern bodybuilder to win the Mr. Olympia. A lot has changed since then. The rise of the camel crew and an exceptional focus put on bodybuilders who train in Dubai has increased the dominance of Middle Eastern pro bodybuilders. Most recently, Big Ramy, hailing from Egypt, won the Mr. Olympia title. In our latest GI Exclusive interview, Samir Bannout analyzes whether or not this is a Middle East movement that will dominate bodybuilding for years to come.
Samir Bannout is proud to be the first Middle Eastern bodybuilder to win the Mr. Olympia. He also has stayed extremely passionate and focused on the sport of bodybuilding ever since his retirement. Event today, he dedicates himself to further helping improve and educate new generations of bodybuilders to support the sport. So what does he think of the rise of Dubai as a mecca for bodybuilding? And of Big Ramy’s win at the Mr. Olympia 2020? Does he see this as a true movement of Middle Eastern bodybuilding?
Samir Bannout admits that there has been a cultural shift in competitive bodybuilding. Dubai has become a hot spot for bodybuilders. While not all of them are actually from the Middle East, Dubai has become a new mecca that promises unreal transformations for competitors who train there. Brandon Curry is the most notable man to train in Dubai, transform his physique, and become a Mr. Olympia champion.
But of course, this new sort of mecca is also benefiting competitors from the Middle East. Big Ramy is now our current Mr. Olympia champion and we’ve seen the likes of Hadi Choopan and Kamal Elgargni show extreme dominance in the sport.
Samir Bannout is unsure if this is a true long term movement though. He points out that bodybuilding has always been a very diverse and international sport. He’s personally seen many rising bodybuilders across a variety of countries that have him excited for the future of the sport.
On top of that, the past year of pro bodybuilding was marred by COVID-19.Big Ramy certainly deserved the Mr. Olympia and showed his best physique. But there will always be a “what if” about 2019 and 2020. We have no idea how the virus affected the top pros personal lives and training. Samir Bannout believes that perhaps 2021 will be bigger indicator. Will Big Ramy and Hadi Choopan continue to thrive at this year’s Mr. Olympia?
During this interview clip, Samir Bannout also talks about his own success as being the first Middle Eastern Mr. Olympia – and reflects on whether not he retired too soon. As he had mentioned previously, he felt slighted by the sport after his 6th place finish in 1984. This got into his head and took the fun out of the sport. He often wonders if he could have stuck with it and eventually moved past the negativity.
You can watch Samir Bannout talk about the rise of Middle Eastern bodybuilding in our latest GI Exclusive interview segment above!