The 2021 Arnold Classic pre-judging broadcast is live – here’s how to watch.
Today, September 25th 2021, is the 2021 Arnold Classic competition. One of the biggest bodybuilding events of the season has finally arrived after some delays and a condensed schedule. Nevertheless, we have top competitors from around the world ready to battle for the title. The Arnold Classic is being held in Columbus, OH – but the event is also providing a free live stream for the world to watch. The pre-judging has just begun. Here’s how to watch the 2021 Arnold Classic pre-judging live stream.
Like last year, the Arnold Classic is providing a free live stream of both the pre-judging and finals of the event. This year it’s more important than ever before due to the global pandemic limiting in-person attendance for the event. What is typically a multi day event and expo with over 100 sports present is now condensed only into the pro bodybuilding Arnold Classic competition
Watch The Arnold Classic Pre-Judging
The 2021 Arnold Classic live stream is broken into two parts. The pre-judging starts at 10:00 A.M. (EST) and the finals start at 6:30 P.M. (EST). Both streams are completely free and available at the official Arnold Classic webcast page right here.
As mentioned, the bodybuilding pro show been condensed and none of the other sporting and fitness events typically held at the Arnold Classic will be conducted this year. That means there are no additional live streams for Strongman, Powerlifting, and the usual dozens of other events.
Arnold Classic Pre-Judging: What To Expect
Unfortunately, the 2021 Arnold Classic has been plagued with athlete drop outs. In the Men’s Open division, four major athletes have announced that they will not compete. Cedric McMillan was the first to announce his withdrawal due to an injury. There were also three athletes who dropped out last minute due to travel issues. Lionel Beyeke was unable to arrive in the states due to COVID-19 related travel issues. This was later followed by Roelly Winklaar. Then at the very last minute – returning champion William Bonac had to withdraw also due to COVID-19 travel complications.
Needless to say, these four major dropouts have greatly changed the landscape for the Men’s Open at the 2021 Arnold Classic. There is still quite the stellar lineup – and the lack of Bonac means we will have a new champion this year. Nick Walker is the clear standout to win the title. His victory at the New York Pro earlier this year showcased a phenomenal physique. His mixture of conditioning and size will be hard to beat.
But it’s not impossible. Biting at Walker’s heels are Akim Williams, Iain Valliere, Justin Rodriguez, and Steve Kuclo. All four of these athletes have shown incredible promise and will give Walker a run for his money. GI alum Victor Martinez predicts that Rodriguez is poised to at least place in the top 3. Could he edge his way into the first position?
Kuclo has had a string of bad luck – competing against the likes of Iain Valliere in previous shows and falling short. Perhaps this competition will be when he perfects his peak timing. Valliere himself has already won multiple shows this year – including just six weeks earlier at the Texas Pro. Will his short turnaround be a blessing or a curse for his peak timing at the 2021 Arnold Classic? We’ll soon find out.
The pre-judging round is our first change to really see these competitors side by side. It’s also our first chance to see who is coming in on point after weeks of previews during prep. By the end of the pre-judging, we’ll have a clear idea of who is to land in to the top five.
Of course, a lot can change between the pre-judging and finals. We’ve seen competitors fade and competitors show up with renewed vigor and dryness. Unlike a typical year for the Arnold Classic, Men’s Open will not have a full day between pre-judging and finals. So the window is much more tight. Still – it will be exciting to see how the competitors adjust after today’s pre-judging round.
You can watch the 2021 Arnold Classic pre-judging live stream above. Make sure to stay tuned to the Generation Iron fitness network for pre-judging reports, results, and more updates!