Nigerian-born bodybuilder Samson Dauda has earned $200,000 after finishing second in the Men’s Open division at the 2026 Mr Olympia in Las Vegas, United States.
Dauda finished behind American bodybuilder Nick Walker, who claimed his first Mr Olympia title and collected the $600,000 top prize. Derek Lunsford placed third and earned $100,000.
The competition was held from September 24 to 27, with the Men’s Open finals taking place at the Orleans Arena on Saturday, September 26.
According to the published scorecard, Walker finished with 18 points, while Dauda recorded 20 points. In the Olympia scoring system, the lower combined score determines the placing.
Dauda, who won the Mr Olympia title in 2024, returned to the podium after finishing fourth in 2025. His 2026 result gives him another top-three finish at bodybuilding’s premier competition.
The bodybuilder confirmed his runner-up finish in a social media post, saying he had gone to Las Vegas aiming to win but was proud of the physique he presented on stage.
“This was the best version of me we have ever created,” Dauda said, while thanking his team for their contribution to his preparation.
Dauda entered the 2026 Mr Olympia after winning the Europa Pro on September 13, giving him a victory shortly before returning to the Olympia stage.
His latest performance adds to an Olympia record that includes sixth place in 2022, third in 2023, victory in 2024, fourth in 2025 and second in 2026.

AbdulBasit Saba is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.


























