The bodybuilding world is still reeling from the results of the Arnold Classic 2026, where there was a huge surprise. Paper favourite Hadi Choopan faltered, which was perfectly exploited by the phenomenal Andrew Jacked. He took home the gold and a cheque for an astronomical $750,000 after a thrilling battle with Nick Walker.
In a recent interview, head judge Steve Weinberger commented not only on their form, but also on the overall direction of the sport and the behaviour of the media.
“Some people shouldn’t have a microphone at all.”
Weinberger didn’t mince words and harshly criticized some media platforms that he believes are rather detrimental to bodybuilding.
“I think there are some very good people, but then there are some people who shouldn’t have a podcast or a microphone at all. They are just incompetent, too negative and don’t show people the respect they deserve,” he said uncompromisingly.
He said journalists should present complete information and let the fans make up their own minds.
“Report on it, but don’t force your personal opinions on others. Don’t try to manipulate the audience,” he said , adding that subjective and negative assessments by some commentators cast a bad light on the sport.
Where are the reserves of champion Andrew Jacked?
Andrew Jacked has huge momentum at the moment and his main target now is the Sandow statue. Although he showed the form of his life at the Arnold, the head judges know exactly where the champion needs to step up.
The weakness according to him is the legs, specifically the outer thighs.
“His abductors are overpowering his upper thighs. He could add volume to his hamstrings and, frankly, his arms,” We inbergerassessed .
But he stressed that even minor improvements in those areas are enough to make Andrew even more dangerous at Olympia.
Nick Walker pays for posing and transitions
Nick “The Mutant” Walker finished a close second at the Arnold Classic. Weinberger highlighted his back poses – specifically the double biceps from behind, Nick was said to have the best of the entire starting field. So where does he lose points?
“Nick’s problem is that he often relaxes between poses. He’s not 100 percent solidified all the time. He needs to be in full control of his body when he transitions from one pose to another,” explained the head judge, adding that it wouldn’t hurt Nick to add a little more muscle mass to his thighs.
This opinion is also shared by former pro King Kamali, who warned Walker against loose abs (bubble gut) during transitions.
“They know they’re coming after you. They’ll take a picture of you relaxed and write that you have a bubble gut. You can’t let that happen. You’re up there for 15 minutes, so you just have to stick it out,” Kamalsaid .
Conclusion
One thing is for sure – the battle at the upcoming edition of Mr. Olympia is going to be epic. Both Andrew Jacked and Nick Walker know their weaknesses straight from the man who will decide their fate. If they heed his advice, we definitely have something to look forward to in Las Vegas!
Bodybuilding Media / Jacked vs Walker / Wesley vs Mike / PLUS more
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