Arnold Classic Men’s Open Bodybuilding Preview

By Joe Pietaro
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Updated: February 24, 2014

A year ago, a thin (no pun intended) line-up left a lot to be desired at the Arnold Classic, as did the majority of the competitor’s distended midsections. Dexter Jackson was triumphant and the contest’s namesake even had harsh criticism for the conditioning of the men on stage, so this year’s show needs to impress. Looking over the names that will vie for the title in 2014, that should not be a problem.

The two names being thrown about as favorites are Dennis Wolf and Shawn Rhoden, who placed third and fourth, respectively, at the most recent Olympia. Both will be looking for their first Arnold Classic win, as will nine-tenths of the line-up, with only Victor Martinez having tasted victory in Columbus before.

Ben Pakulski was last year’s runner-up and will look to improve on that and Evan Centopani – who placed third here in 2012 – will also be in the mix. Branch Warren has won here twice and cannot be overlooked and Martinez has been able to persevere when counted out before. Cedric McMillan placed sixth in Ohio a year ago but could have fared better, so keep your eye on him for the posedown again and as a wild card to sneak into the top three.

Here’s the full line-up:

2014 Arnold Classic Competitors
Evan Centopani
Brandon Curry
Toney Freeman
Cedric MacMillan
Victor Martinez
Edward Nunn
Ben Pakulski
Shawn Rhoden
Fred Smalls
Branch Warren
Dennis Wolf