Men's Open Prejudging: A strong debut and a Wide-Open Race for Gold
The Men’s Open prejudging delivered the showdown everyone was waiting for – and it did not disappoint. From the very first groups, it became clear: the level of competition was incredible, the lineups were impressive, and several athletes set new standards for the division.
Urs Kalecinski impresses in his Open debut
Urs Kalecinski made it clear from the moment he stepped on stage in the sport’s premier division that he has nothing to hide behind. Commentators praised him: “He means business.” and “He has so much potential.” In his comparison round with Hadi Choopan, Urs held his own with confidence – “Urs is holding his own” – and remained firmly in the judges’ focus through the later rounds.
At this stage, all signs point toward a Top-12 placing – an outstanding result for his Olympia debut in the Men’s Open. His combination of flow, stage presence, and classic aesthetics earned him plenty of respect – and pride among fans back home in Germany.
Strong performances from the favorites
Andrew Jacked looked incredible: “This might be the best Andrew Jacked we’ve seen.” Derek Lunsford impressed with sharper definition, especially through the midsection – “Looks phenomenal. Big back, great abs.”
And Samson Dauda left no doubt that he’s here to defend his crown: “He’s making a statement – he’s saying, ‘I’m the champion.’”
The callouts: tension through every turn
The first callout featured Hadi Choopan, Martin Fitzwater, Nick Walker, Andrew Jacked, Derek Lunsford, and Samson Dauda – all title contenders. Samson and Derek moved to the center, a clear sign of strong placements.
The second and third callouts kept the intensity high: Urs Kalecinski held his spot in the middle – a strong indicator for his first Open lineup.
The final callout confirmed the expected top four: Hadi, Andrew, Derek, and Samson – all in outstanding shape. So, stay tuned for the Men's Open final – and more divisions to come tomorrow.
Classic Physique Prejudging: Terrence, Mike & Ramon in a three-way battle for the title
The Classic Physique prejudging took center stage on Saturday morning – and it more than lived up to the hype. Terrence Ruffin (USA), Mike Sommerfeld (GER), and Ramon Dino (BRA) made up a fierce top trio in the first callout. The judges rotated all three repeatedly through the center, a clear sign that the fight for first place is wide open.
Mike Sommerfeld, entering as one of the favorites after his Arnold Classic win, impressed with his trademark shape, flow, and composure on stage. Despite a turbulent final prep, his presentation was sharp, and the judges compared him directly with both Terrence and Ramon throughout the round. Terrence Ruffin, returning after a year’s break, looked refined and in balance – arguably the most complete version of himself to date. Ramon Dino, last year’s runner-up, brought his trademark muscle density but was slightly overshadowed in symmetry and flow. Right behind them, Michael Daboul (UK) emerged as one of the evening’s surprises. Also unexpected: Breon Ansley (UK) was not moved into the direct comparison with the top contenders.
ESN athlete José Manuel Muñoz (ESP), known as Josema Beast, drew attention in a focused two-man comparison. His clean lines and control made a strong impression, suggesting a promising setup for a high placing – potentially within the Top 5.
Takeaway: Terrence Ruffin, Mike Sommerfeld, and Ramon Dino are locked in a genuine three-way battle – the finals will decide who claims the new Classic Physique crown.
Results from Friday – Mr. Olympia
Results
|
Results
|
Results
|
Results
|
Results
|
Results
|
New Champion and strong German Athletes Impress at Figure Olympia 2025
The Figure division at Mr. Olympia 2025 crowned a new champion: Rhea Gayle stood out with outstanding symmetry, clean lines, and confident stage presence, earning a well-deserved title against a strong field.
Behind her, Lola Montez (USA) took second place, while long-time top contender Jessica Reyes Padilla (Puerto Rico) finished third.
Germany’s Denise Zwinger-Tynek made headlines with a remarkable fourth-place debut, impressing the judges with her conditioning, poise, and balanced shape – a major success for the German figure scene.
The two other German competitors, Lena Ramsteiner and Jennifer Zienert, also delivered strong performances, further cementing Germany’s reputation as a rising force in the Figure category.
Results from Saturday – Mr. Olympia
Results
|
Results
|
Results
|
Results
|
Results
|
|