Nigerian bodybuilder Chinedu Andrew Obiekea, popularly known as Andrew Jacked made history recently after winning the Men’s Open title at the Arnold Classic in Columbus, Ohio.
The 38th edition of the prestigious event took place at the Greater Columbus Convention Center, where the Nigerian star delivered a dominant performance to secure the title and a record-breaking prize. Read More
Record payday for Nigerian champion
Andrew received $750,000 for winning the Men’s Open division, the largest winner’s purse in the history of the competition.
He also collected an additional $10,000 after being named Best Poser, bringing his total earnings for the night to $760,000.
Nigerian bodybuilder Chinedu Andrew wins 2026 Arnold Classic title, claims record $750,000 prize
Chinedu Andrew Obiekea (aka Andrew Jacked) – Getty image
Competition founder and bodybuilding legend Arnold Schwarzenegger was present throughout the event and was seen filming the final rounds from the sidelines before presenting the microphone to the new champion during the trophy ceremony.
Fierce contest in the Men’s Open division
Jacked’s victory came after a tightly contested battle with former Mr. Olympia champion Hadi Choopan and fan favourite Nick Walker.
The Nigerian secured the judges’ nod thanks to his superior muscle fullness, symmetry and conditioning, building on the momentum from his third-place finish at the 2025 Mr. Olympia.
Another milestone for Nigerian bodybuilding
With the win, Jacked becomes the second Nigerian to capture the Arnold Classic title after Samson Dauda and the third African overall to claim the prestigious crown.
Born in Kaduna, Nigeria, Jacked initially trained as an electrical engineer and served as a military officer before turning to professional bodybuilding in 2021.
His rapid rise has seen him progress from amateur champion in 2022 to one of the sport’s elite competitors, securing one of bodybuilding’s “Triple Crown” titles in just four years. See More