Nigerian bodybuilder Chinedu Andrew Obiekea, known professionally as Andrew Jacked, captured the Men’s Open title at the 2026 Arnold Classic on March 7 in Columbus, Ohio. The victory at one of bodybuilding’s most prestigious events cements his place among the sport’s elite and marks the largest win of his career to date.
The 41-year-old athlete took home $750,000 in prize money, the largest purse ever awarded in professional bodybuilding history. He also earned an additional $10,000 for winning the Best Poser award, bringing his total earnings to $760,000.
The Men’s Open division featured a stacked lineup of the world’s best bodybuilders. Andrew Jacked faced fierce competition from former Olympia champion Hadi Choopan of Iran and 2021 Arnold Classic winner Nick Walker of the United States.
After strong showings during Friday’s prejudging, where he appeared in the first callout alongside Choopan, Walker, and Martin Fitzwater, Andrew Jacked carried momentum into Saturday night’s finals. The judges ultimately positioned him center stage, announcing him as the champion ahead of Walker in second place and Choopan in third.
This victory represents the culmination of years of climbing the professional ranks. Andrew Jacked had previously finished third at both the 2023 and 2025 Arnold Classics, and placed third at the 2025 Mr. Olympia, his best career finish at bodybuilding’s premier event.
Born in Kaduna, Nigeria, Andrew Jacked brings an unusual background to the sport. Before transitioning to bodybuilding, he worked as an electrical engineer and served as a military officer. He also competed as a kickboxer and CrossFit athlete before finding his true calling on the bodybuilding stage.
Standing 6’2″ and competing around 266 pounds, Andrew Jacked represents a different archetype in the Men’s Open division. His relatively narrow waist and aesthetic, balanced physique draw comparisons to legends like the late Cedric McMillan. This classic approach stands in contrast to the blockier mass monsters who have dominated the sport in recent decades.
His dietary discipline stems partly from necessity. Andrew Jacked has spoken openly about his food sensitivities and allergies, which limit his meal options but inadvertently help maintain his tapered waistline. His typical diet includes whole chickens, rice, broccoli, and oats, simple staples that fuel his massive frame.
Andrew Jacked’s victory places Nigeria firmly on the global bodybuilding map. He joins fellow Nigerian Samson Dauda, who won the 2023 Arnold Classic, as African champions at the event.
His success reflects a broader rise in African talent within the sport. IFBB Nigeria President Soye Elekima has cited athletes like Andrew Jacked and Samuel Dauda as proof of the country’s growing influence. Nigeria is set to host its first IFBB Professional Championship in October 2026, building momentum from these international victories.
With the Arnold Classic title secured, attention now turns to the Mr. Olympia contest scheduled for October 2026 in Las Vegas. Andrew Jacked has finished eighth, fifth, and third in his three Olympia appearances. A victory there would complete one of the most impressive rises in modern bodybuilding and potentially set up a compelling rivalry with reigning champion Derek Lunsford.
For now, the Nigerian star can savor his moment. After a decade of grinding in gyms across Dubai and Los Angeles, Andrew Jacked has proven he belongs on the sport’s highest podium
