Samson Dauda, a Nigerian-born bodybuilder now based in the United Kingdom, has made history by winning the 2024 Mr. Olympia title. He achieved this remarkable feat over the weekend at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Nevada, USA.
With this victory, Dauda becomes the first athlete of Nigerian origin to win this prestigious title, following his impressive third-place finish last year. The runner-up in this year’s competition was Iranian bodybuilder Hadi Choopan, while American Derek Lunsford secured third place.
The Mr. Olympia title is awarded each year at the Olympia Fitness & Performance Weekend, a major event sanctioned by the International Fitness and Bodybuilding Federation (IFBB) Professional League.
Samson Dauda, born on March 11, 1992, has gained significant recognition in the bodybuilding world. Known as the “Nigerian Lion,” he has built a strong social media following of nearly 1 million fans, where he shares fitness tips and advice.
Originally from Lagos, Nigeria, Dauda moved to the UK as a teenager. Initially playing rugby, he was encouraged by his teammates to pursue bodybuilding, leading him to compete for the first time in 2014.
Now, Dauda has reached the pinnacle of the sport, winning its most esteemed title, which has been made famous by legends like Arnold Schwarzenegger and Ronnie Coleman, all in the competition’s 60th year.
After his impressive third-place finish last year, Samson has continued to rise in the bodybuilding world. He currently lives in the UK with his wife, Marlena, and their dog, Cerberus.
