Martin Fitzwater shared a statement on Thursday after letting the situation set in.
It has been almost a week since the 2026 Arnold Classic crowned a new champion. Martin Fitzwater heard his name called for fourth place and was unhappy with the result and his performance overall. This led to behavior that was viewed as unsportsmanlike and Fitzwater has broken his silence.
On Thursday, Fitzwater shared a statement on social media apologizing for the incident at the Arnold.
A video surfaced of Fitzwater celebrating when Nick Walker was called as the runner-up, missing out on a historic $750,000 prize. Andrew Jacked was crowned champion after an exciting finals that feature multiple contenders. In the end, Jacked separated himself and Fitzwater was not shy about celebrating the final result on stage.
While this happened for all to see, there is an alleged incident that took place backstage. Walker shared in a comment’s section on social media that Fitzwater shoved him backstage. This came after Fitzwater refused to shake his hand on stage,claiming that he would “not be fake” about his feelings toward Walker.
Martin Fitzwater Issues Apology Following 2026 Arnold Classic
In an Instagram post on Thursday, Martin Fitzwater apologized for his behavior.
“What happened last week was out of character, and I take full responsibility for it. I’ve always been someone that struggles with losing, but the past couple years I’ve worked hard toward a better version of myself to learn how to handle these moments better.
I’m a professional, and in that moment I didn’t represent myself or my team, for that I am sorry to my true fans, and the Arnold stage.”
Bodybuilding legend Phil Heath spoke on this incident from last weekend. He stated that mental health is not discussed enough in bodybuilding and that is something that needs to change.
Fitzwater shared that he continues to work on himself and how to handle situations such as this.
“The truth is, I’m human like everyone else, I have struggles and things I’m working through. The difference is that my mistakes happen under a microscope. That doesn’t excuse my behavior, but it does remind me how important it is to hold myself to a higher standard.”
Martin Fitzwater is currently on the lineup for the 2026 Arnold Classic UK, which is scheduled in two weeks. It is unknown if Fitzwater plans to take the stage, but if he does, he will get a chance at redemption. Not only against Andrew Jacked, but for his behavior in Columbus.
