The days leading up to the Arnold Classic are typically filled with excitement, anticipation, and final preparations for athletes looking to deliver their best physique on stage. However, for Hadi Choopan, the buildup to the 2026 Arnold Classic has been overshadowed by intense controversy and online backlash. Just one day before stepping on stage in Columbus, Ohio, Hadi Choopan spoke publicly about accusations tied to the ongoing political crisis in his home country of Iran.
Speaking with RxMuscle, the Iranian bodybuilding star addressed claims that he has ties to the Iranian government and responded to the growing online petition calling for him to be removed from the competition.
The situation has escalated over recent weeks, particularly on social media. Critics accused Choopan of supporting the Iranian government or benefiting from government backing. Much of the controversy stemmed from his relative silence regarding violent crackdowns on protesters in Iran. Additional speculation emerged when fans believed they saw an image of Iran’s Supreme Leader on Choopan’s phone background in a public photo.
As the accusations spread, a petition began circulating online demanding that organizers remove Choopan from the Arnold Classic lineup. The backlash also impacted his social media presence significantly.
Despite the controversy, Choopan made it clear that he rejects the accusations entirely.
Choopan Denies Government Ties
When asked about the backlash and accusations, Choopan suggested that the criticism may be fueled by jealousy within the bodybuilding world.
“Because I’m the first person from Iran who could attend a Mr. Olympia and compete at this level, there are some people in our federation and in our industry who maybe feel jealous and try to bring me down,” Choopan explained.
He emphasized that his career has always been about representing the Iranian people rather than any political authority.
“But this does not represent the whole country. I have always represented and competed for my people. When I received success, they did not call any government or official on the stage. They called Iran, which means the people of Iran,” he said.
Choopan reiterated that his identity as an athlete is tied to his fans and supporters rather than any political institution.
“I have always been a representative for the people of Iran and I always competed for the people of Iran. I will compete for them this year also.”
Choopan also addressed the accusations directly.
“I deny all of it. It is just the wrong opinion. Some people try to say that I belong to the government or have a relationship with them.”
Losing Over One Million Instagram Followers
One of the most visible consequences of the controversy has been Hadi Choopan’s dramatic drop in social media followers. According to reports, he has lost more than one million followers on Instagram since the controversy began.
Choopan believes that much of the criticism is coming from people outside of Iran who may not fully understand the situation within the country.
“Most of the people are not Iranian people. Many of them are bodybuilders who live outside of the country and they do not know what is going on inside the country,” Choopan said.
He also questioned whether the critics represent the broader bodybuilding community.
“I do not believe that they represent all the people. Some people maybe received the wrong information and decided to unfollow me.”
Despite the massive loss of followers, Choopan insists that social media numbers do not define his career.
“Instagram is just a platform and for me is just social media. Social media did not make me great and it cannot bring me down. I always try to compete for the people and make them happy. Their happiness is the most important thing for me, not social media numbers.”
What Happens To Hadi Choopan After The Arnold Classic?
The geopolitical tension between the United States and Iran has raised questions about Hadi Choopan’s travel plans following the competition.
When asked whether he would return to Iran after the Arnold Classic despite ongoing conflict, Choopan made his intentions clear.
“Yes, for sure I will go back home,” he said. “I cannot stay more than one month outside the country. I will go back to my people, my family, and my land. This will always be my home.”
Focus Remains on the Arnold Classic Stage
While the controversy continues to spark debate online, Hadi Choopan’s immediate focus is the Arnold Classic stage. The event remains one of the most prestigious competitions in professional bodybuilding and a major opportunity for athletes to prove themselves early in the season.
For Choopan, the competition represents something deeper than trophies or titles. He sees it as another opportunity to represent the people of Iran on one of bodybuilding’s biggest stages.
Whether the controversy impacts fan reactions or judging remains to be seen. But one thing is clear. Choopan is determined to let his physique and performance speak louder than the noise surrounding him.
You can watch the full interview with Hadi Choopan at the 2026 Arnold Classic below:
*Featured image via YouTube @RxMuscle — The Truth in Bodybuilding
