Nigerian-born bodybuilder Samson Dauda has finished second in the Men’s Open division at the 2026 Mr Olympia competition held in Las Vegas, United States. The competition took place from September 24 to 27, with the finals occurring at the Orleans Arena on September 26. Dauda, who won the Mr Olympia title in 2024, scored 20 points, finishing two points behind the winner, Nick Walker. Walker claimed his first Mr Olympia title with 18 points.
The 2026 Mr Olympia competition saw Nick Walker take the Sandow trophy for the first time, having finished sixth in the 2025 Mr Olympia. Walker also won the 2026 People’s Champion award. The final top five in the Men’s Open division consisted of Walker, Dauda, Derek Lunsford, Chinedu Andrew Obiekea, and Tonio Burton. Dauda’s second-place finish came after he recorded the lowest score in the Saturday finals, scoring five points to Walker’s 10.
According to the published 2026 scorecard, Dauda and Walker had different fortunes on Friday and Saturday. Walker led after Friday’s prejudging with eight points, while Dauda had 15. However, in the finals, Dauda’s low score allowed Walker to take the lead and claim the title. The combined scores left Walker on 18 points and Dauda on 20, with the lower score determining the winner.
Dauda confirmed his runner-up finish in an Instagram post on Sunday, expressing pride in his achievement. He described the physique he presented at the competition as “the best version of me we have ever created.” Dauda also thanked his team, stating that the medal was not solely his achievement. “This medal may be around my neck, but it belongs to all of us,” he wrote.
Dauda’s second-place finish marks a return to the Mr Olympia podium after he placed fourth in 2025. He had previously won the title in 2024, with the official results listing him as representing the United Kingdom. Before this year’s competition, Dauda won the 2026 Europa Pro on September 13.
The 2026 Mr Olympia competition was a significant event for bodybuilding, with many top athletes participating. Dauda’s achievement demonstrates his continued success in the sport, and his pride in his physique and team is evident. His statement highlights the collaborative effort that contributed to his second-place finish.
Tosin Oyediran, a journalist with Punch Newspapers, reported on Dauda’s achievement, providing details about the competition and the final standings. Oyediran has over eight years of newsroom experience, covering various topics including politics, health, advocacy, sports, and entertainment.
Key points
- Samson Dauda finished second in the Men’s Open division at the 2026 Mr Olympia.
- Nick Walker won the 2026 Mr Olympia title with 18 points.
- Dauda previously won the Mr Olympia title in 2024.
