Samson Dauda: 12 facts about Nigerian-born bodybuilder

• The 2024 Olympia competition took place at the Resorts World Theatre in Las Vegas
• Dauda beat elite athletes, with Hadi Choopan finishing second and Derek Lunsford third
• Dauda's estimated net worth in 2024 is between $500,000 and $1 million

Nigerian-born Samson Dauda has made history by claiming the prestigious 2024 Mr. Olympia bodybuilding title, along with the largest prize ever awarded in the sport. The competition took place at the Resorts World Theatre in Las Vegas, marking the grand conclusion of the 2024 Olympia weekend.

Fifteen top-tier athletes advanced from the pre-judging round to compete on the main stage for the coveted title. Dauda, now based in the UK, triumphed in the competition, with Hadi Choopan finishing in second place, while last year’s champion, Derek Lunsford, fell to third.

In addition to securing the Mr. Olympia crown, Dauda also earned the title of People’s Champion and took home a record-setting $600,000 prize, the largest payout in bodybuilding history.

12 amazing facts about Samson Dauda

TheRadar has compiled below facts about Nigerian-born bodybuilder Dauda:

1. Started with Rugby: Samson Dauda began his sports career playing rugby before discovering his passion for bodybuilding.

2. Inspired by Phil Heath: His passion for bodybuilding was ignited after seeing Phil Heath's physique at the 2013 Olympia.

3. Born in Nigeria: Samson Dauda was born on March 11, 1992, in Nigeria to parents Patrick and Helen Dauda.

4. Moved to the UK and US: After moving from Nigeria, Samson first lived in the UK and later moved to the United States.

5. Bodybuilding debut in 2014: Samson entered his first bodybuilding competition in April 2014, where he won the first-place trophy in a local beginner's contest.

6. Married to Marlena: Samson Dauda is married to Marlena, a former professional bodybuilder who supports his healthy lifestyle and fitness journey.

7. IFBB Pro Title: He achieved his IFBB pro card after winning two first-place finishes at the Diamond Cup Rome in 2017.

8. 2015 setback: In 2015, Samson faced a setback, finishing 8th at the UK Amateur Olympia, but continued to pursue his bodybuilding career.

9. Arnold Classic victory: Samson proved his status to the world again as a top contender in the bodybuilding world with a stunning victory at the prestigious 2023 Arnold Classic.

10. Third place at Mr. Olympia 2023: He finished 3rd at the 2023 Mr. Olympia competition, earning recognition as one of the top bodybuilders in the world.

11. Nickname “Nigerian Lion”: Due to his exceptional achievements and presence in the bodybuilding scene, he earned the nickname “Nigerian Lion.”

12. Net worth: As of 2024, Samson Dauda's net worth is estimated between $500,000 and $1 million, thanks to his bodybuilding and modelling career.

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