Brandon Hendrickson Wins 2026 Arnold Classic Men's Physique Title

Defending champion takes home another victory in the prestigious competition.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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The 2026 Arnold Classic Men's Physique finals took place on Saturday night, with Brandon Hendrickson emerging victorious to claim his second career Arnold Classic title. Hendrickson, a three-time Olympia champion, bested a strong field that included Vitor Chaves and Emanual Hunter, who finished second and third respectively.

Why it matters

The Arnold Classic is one of the most prestigious bodybuilding competitions in the world, and the Men's Physique division has become a marquee event. Hendrickson's win solidifies his status as one of the top athletes in the sport, further cementing his legacy as a dominant force in Men's Physique.

The details

Hendrickson entered the competition as one of the favorites and delivered an impressive performance in prejudging that set the stage for his eventual victory. He was challenged throughout the finals by Chaves and Hunter, but ultimately prevailed to add another Arnold Classic title to his resume.

  • The 2026 Arnold Classic Men's Physique finals took place on Saturday, March 8, 2026.
  • Hendrickson previously won the Arnold Classic Men's Physique title in 2016.

The players

Brandon Hendrickson

A three-time Olympia champion and now a two-time Arnold Classic Men's Physique winner, Hendrickson is one of the most decorated athletes in the division.

Vitor Chaves

The runner-up in the 2026 Arnold Classic Men's Physique competition, Chaves has established himself as one of the top competitors in the division.

Emanual Hunter

Finishing third in the 2026 Arnold Classic Men's Physique, Hunter continues to be a consistent contender in the division.

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What they’re saying

“Winning the Arnold Classic again is such an honor. I'm grateful to have the opportunity to compete against the best in the world and come out on top.”

— Brandon Hendrickson (Generation Iron)

What’s next

Hendrickson will look to defend his Olympia Men's Physique title later this year, where he will face off against the top competitors in the division.

The takeaway

Brandon Hendrickson's victory at the 2026 Arnold Classic solidifies his status as one of the greatest Men's Physique competitors of his era, further cementing his legacy in the sport.