Hadi Choopan, the Iranian bodybuilder who won the Mr. Olympia title in 2022, was visibly upset after losing his crown to Derek Lunsford, the American challenger, in a close and controversial decision at the 2023 Mr. Olympia contest held in Las Vegas on November 4, 2023.
Choopan, who had dominated the 212-pound division for the past two years, was confident that he had done enough to retain his title after displaying his impressive physique and posing routine on the stage. However, the judges saw it differently and awarded the title to Lunsford, who had improved his conditioning and symmetry since his runner-up finish in 2022.
The announcement of the results shocked the audience and the competitors, as many had expected Choopan to win. Choopan himself was stunned and disappointed by the decision, and he showed his displeasure by storming off the stage without congratulating Lunsford or posing for the photos with the other top five finishers.
Choopan’s reaction was widely criticized by the fans and the media, who accused him of being a sore loser and disrespecting the sport. Some also speculated that Choopan’s exit was influenced by his political and personal issues, as he had faced difficulties in obtaining a visa to compete in the United States due to the tensions between Iran and the US.
Lunsford, on the other hand, was ecstatic and emotional after winning his first Mr. Olympia title, and he thanked his fans, his coach, and his family for their support. He also praised Choopan for being a great competitor and a worthy champion, and he expressed his hope that Choopan would return to the stage next year for a rematch.
The 2023 Mr. Olympia contest was one of the most anticipated and controversial events in the history of bodybuilding, as it featured a clash between two of the best 212-pound bodybuilders in the world. The outcome of the contest will surely spark a lot of debate and discussion among the fans and the experts, and it will set the stage for an exciting and competitive 2024 Mr. Olympia.