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Regan Grimes is celebrating this morning after winning the Open category portion of the 2026 Austrian Oak Pro and earning his spot at the Mr. Olympia final in Las Vegas. But celebrations in the Classic Physique division, topped by Zhivko Petkov, were marred by\u00a0 Michael Daboul, who was so upset with placing third that he could be seen visibly upset on stage, protesting the result verbally, and even refusing to engage in the official photographs.<\/p>\n
Daboul\u2019s unsportsman-like scenes unfolded as Bulgarian bodybuilder, Zhivko Petkov, was awarded first place at the IFBB Austian Oak Olympia qualifier on August 24, 2026, putting Germany\u2019s Florian Hartlage in the runner-up spot, and leaving Daboul out in third. The big man was so upset with the judges ruling that he began to berate the panel while still on stage. He then started to walk off in protest but was persuaded to return to the stage. Daboul was still unable to keep his cool, however, and refused to engage with the official photographer, putting his hands on his hips as Zhivko tried to carry on regardless.<\/p>\n
\u201cI really apologize for the way I reacted after the result,\u201d said Syrian bodybuilder<\/a>, while making an apology his actions later that evening. \u201cI let my emotions take control of me and that is not how I want to represent myself as a professional athlete,\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n There was plenty of positivity in the Open division in Austria, however, as Regan Grimes made a \u2018better late than never\u2019 showing on stage that earned him a place in the biggest bodybuilding event of the year. \u201cWe\u2019re going to the Olympia,\u201d said the French-Canadian as he walked backstage with his trophy.<\/p>\n On the night, Grimes flexed his way past stiff competition from Joan Pradells who placed third, and Damian Kuffel who made runner up.<\/p>\n Here are the winners from the four categories contested in Austra:<\/p>\n \u00a0Joe Weider\u2019s Olympia Fitness & Performance Weekend takes place from Sept. 24 to 27, 2026 in Las Vegas. For more information, click here.\u00a0<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\nRegan Grimes Qualifies for the 2026 Mr. Olympia<\/h2>\n
2026 IFBB Austrian Oak Full Results<\/h2>\n
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