NICK WALKER WINS 1ST ARNOLD TITLE
COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Nick “The Mutant” Walker of New Jersey won his first Arnold Classic title in his Columbus debut when he beat Iain Valliere of Canada and Steve Kuclo of Texas on Saturday, Sept. 25 at the 2021 Arnold Classic.
It was the second professional victory for Walker, who took home the New York Pro this summer after earning IFBB Pro League status by winning the overall at the 2020 NPC North Americans.
Walker received congratulations from Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, a check for $130,000 and the champion’s trophy from Ian Bell of MUTANT.
Valliere, also making his Arnold Classic debut, earned $75,000 for second place and Kuclo earned $50,000 for third. Rounding out the Top Six were Justin Rodriguez ($30,000), Akim Williams ($15,000) and Sergio Oliva Jr. ($10,000).
The 2021 Arnold Classic, originally scheduled for March, was held Sept. 24-25 at the Greater Columbus Convention Center. The event included the Arnold Classic men’s open bodybuilding championships, Arnold Classic Physique, Fitness International and Bikini International.
Ronnie Coleman, the 2001 Arnold Classic champion and one of the greatest bodybuilders of all time, received the Lifetime Achievement Award from Schwarzenegger before giving a touching and emotional acceptance speech and receiving a standing ovation from the near sold-out crowd.
2021 Arnold Classic
- Nick Walker, $130,000
- Iain Valliere, $75,000
- Steve Kuclo, $50,000
- Justin Rodriquez, $30,000
- Akim Williams, $15,000
- Sergio Oliva Jr., $10,000
- Mokhamed El Emam, $2,000
- Maxx Charles, $2,000
- Hassan Mostafa, $2,000
- Seung Chul Lee, $2,000
Franco Columbu Most Muscular Award: Nick Walker
Ed Corney Best Posing Award: Sergio Oliva Jr.
