Samson Dauda, known as the "Nigerian Lion", emerged victorious at the 2024 Mr. Olympia, surpassing top contenders Derek Lunsford and Hadi Choopan to secure his first title, a result that many might call an upset. However, Dauda recently revealed that his journey to bodybuilding's most prestigious prize in bodybuilding was marked by near-retirement thoughts and relentless struggle. Now at the peak of his career, the IFBB pro is already preparing for new challenges ahead.
Speaking with Generation Iron’s Vlad Yudin in a YouTube interview, Dauda opened up about the difficulties of pursuing professional bodybuilding. "When you are an amateur, you’re not thinking about what comes next after the pro card," said Dauda, who was born in Lagos, Nigeria. "You just focus on what is in front of you. You want that pro card, but once you get it, that doesn’t mean you’re the best. It just gets you in the gates," the ace bodybuilder who shifted to United Kingdom in his teens said.
For international athletes like Dauda, competing in the United States requires significant financial investment, with travel and accommodation costs posing major obstacles. Recognising that success would demand these sacrifices, Dauda made the necessary commitments to compete with the best.
The path to the top was not without setbacks. The COVID-19 pandemic, along with the need to juggle full-time employment, added pressure and moments of doubt. Dauda admitted he questioned whether his efforts were sustainable, but unwavering support from family, friends and sponsors kept him on track. In 2022, he debuted at the Olympia, finishing sixth—a performance that reignited his motivation. Building on that momentum, he placed third in 2023 before clinching the title this year.
Despite taking home a $600,000 prize, Dauda is not slowing down. Rather than waiting until next year’s Olympia, he has set his sights on the Arnold Sports Festival in March, where the Men’s Open Division winner is set to receive $500,000. The 37-year-old is no stranger to the event, having claimed the Classic Division title in 2023, and he is eager to compete again in Columbus, Ohio.
"I’m not going to be a one-show guy," Dauda asserted. "I’m never going to disappear the whole year." He confirmed his intention to compete at the Arnold, stating, “you’d best believe I’m going to be on that stage."
