Lee Haney is an eight-time Mr. Olympia champion and the creator of the legendary motto “mass with class.” Throughout his career, he became famous for his massive back muscles and wasp waist. He often views the current era of super-heavyweights very critically, particularly due to their lack of abdominal control. This made his enthusiasm for the physique Nick Walker showcased this year in Las Vegas all the more surprising.
Although Haney is currently recovering from a major surgery, he didn’t miss the world’s most prestigious competition. In his latest interview, he acknowledged that this year’s final battle was one of the toughest in recent years. Both Samson Dauda and Derek Lunsford displayed excellent physiques, but according to Haney, Walker won fair and square. It was his brutal level of preparation that made the difference.
Thin Skin and Muscular Maturity
“I have to give Nick a huge compliment. To be completely honest, I’m not a fan of the most massive monsters; I’ve always preferred more aesthetic lines. But bodybuilding is a sport where separation and muscle hardness are also judged, and in that regard, Nick was absolutely unbeatable this year,” Haneysaid in his assessment of the new champion’s performance.
According to eight-time Mr. Olympia Walker, Nick brought a level of definition to the stage that was reminiscent of the golden age of the 1990s.
“His skin was as thin as paper. When he flexed his back and hamstrings, he displayed a level of detail and muscular maturity that Samson, despite his gigantic size, simply doesn’t have yet. Nick showed what 100 percent final form should look like.”
Masterful Control of Posing
In addition to his strength, Haney was impressed by another key aspect of Walker’s presentation—his core control and breathing.
“In the past, I’ve criticized Nick for not being able to fully control his core in relaxed poses. This year? He did a fantastic job. He kept his abs tight from the moment he stepped onto the stage until the final announcement. He posed like a true champion, didn’t waste any energy, and didn’t give the judges a chance to find a flaw,” Haneypraised Walker’s professional performance.
According to him, Nick proved this year that he deserves the Mr. Olympia title in every way.
Building massive muscle requires extreme dedication and no compromises. Push your limits and dress in the exclusive limited-edition NEBBIA x Olympia collection, designed for the toughest workouts. This is hardcore gear for true hard workers—the stuff future champions are made of!
Lee Haney EXCLUSIVE! Health Update & ’26 Mr. O thoughts
No posts have been made yet.
