By Gary Chappell
SAMSON DAUDA says losing his Mr Olympia title "hurts" as he admitted chasing condition saw him sacrifice too much size.
Dauda, winner in 2024, was awarded fourth place at the Olympia contest in Las Vegas, USA. Derek Lunsford was announced the winner, reclaiming the title he first won in 2023.
Standing alongside Lunsford, Hadi Choopan, who finished second, and third-placed Andrew Jacked, Dauda appeared somehow slimmer than last year – if that is possible at a weight of about 280lbs plus.
But writing on social media afterwards, the Briton said: "Sometimes doing everything right still doesn’t give you the result you hoped for.
"We came in fourth this year at the Olympia. I won’t lie, it hurts. I listened, adjusted and brought the best version of myself to the stage… leaner, sharper and in the best condition of my life.
"But in chasing perfection, I paid the price for not being the bigger version."
Dauda's setback, however, has made the "fire burn even brighter" – which means it is definitely game on in 2026.
He said: "Still, I hold my head high. Because what we [coach and wife Marlenka] achieved was something special. The journey, the growth, the resilience… that’s what defines a true athlete.
"Massive congratulations to Derek on winning his second title and to all the incredible competitors who brought their absolute best this weekend. Sharing the stage with you all is an honour every single time.
"This isn’t the end, it’s a chapter. The fire burns even brighter now.
"Thank you all for the love, support and belief. We’ll be back. And we’ll make sure I'll be better and stronger."
Sasan Heirati, also from the UK, finished joint 16th, effectively out of the placings, on his Olympia debut, while Britain's Ryan Terry successfully defended his Men's Physique Olympia title, winning for a third consecutive time.
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