When you think of dedication, discipline, and sheer willpower in the bodybuilding world, Hadi Choopan, better known as “The Persian Wolf,” is a name that instantly comes to mind. This Iranian powerhouse has made waves in the IFBB Pro League, becoming one of the most respected and feared competitors on the stage. Let’s dive into the history, workouts, and achievements of this beastly figure in the bodybuilding scene.
Early Life and Struggles
Born on September 26, 1987, in Abnow, Fars Province, Iran, Hadi Choopan’s journey to the top wasn’t easy. Growing up in a financially struggling family, Choopan had to work from a young age, doing everything from peddling goods to laboring on construction sites. But amidst these challenges, he found his passion for bodybuilding.
At just 15 years old, Choopan started lifting weights under the guidance of coach Jamshid Owji. Back then, he was just a skinny kid, but his drive to improve was unmatched. By 2005, after only three years of training, he secured his first national title. This was just the beginning of his rise in the bodybuilding world.
The Rise to Fame
Choopan’s breakthrough came in 2013 when he won the WBPF Asia Championships and started to dominate the WBPF World Bodybuilding Championships, taking gold in 2013, 2014, and 2015. His relentless work ethic and eye-popping conditioning earned him the nickname “The Persian Wolf.”
In 2017, Choopan began training with renowned coach Hany Rambod, and his career took off internationally. That year, he snagged the gold at the Mr. Olympia Amateur and later secured a series of impressive placements, including the IFBB Sheru Classic, Asia Grand Prix, and San Marino Pro. But despite his impressive resume, getting a U.S. Visa was a hurdle that kept him from competing on the world’s biggest stages—until 2019.
Once Choopan overcame his visa issues, he exploded onto the scene, winning the IFBB Vancouver Pro and placing third in his Mr. Olympia debut, along with bagging the People’s Champion Award. This marked the start of his reign as one of the top contenders in the Men’s Open division.
Dominating the Mr. Olympia Stage
After securing third and fourth place finishes at the Mr. Olympia in 2020 and 2021, respectively, Choopan was hungry for more. He finally captured the coveted Mr. Olympia title in 2022, making history as the first Iranian to win the prestigious competition. His victory was a testament to his perseverance, technical mastery, and unparalleled conditioning—especially those insane quads and shredded physique that left everyone in awe.
However, in 2023, Choopan faced a tough battle and finished second to Derek Lunsford, a result that didn’t sit well with him. His controversial decision to remove his second-place medal and walk off stage showed his fiery passion and refusal to settle for anything less than the top spot. This incident made headlines and sparked discussions across the bodybuilding community.
Training and Diet: The Persian Wolf’s Approach
When it comes to training, Choopan’s regimen is as intense as it gets. He follows a traditional bodybuilding split, hitting each muscle group with high volume and a mix of heavy compound movements and isolation exercises to carve out every detail of his physique. His leg workouts are particularly brutal, packed with squats, leg presses, and lunges that contribute to his standout quads.
Diet-wise, Choopan stays consistent with a high-protein, moderate-carb, and low-fat approach, adjusting his macros depending on whether he’s in a bulking or cutting phase. His meals typically include lean meats, eggs, rice, sweet potatoes, and plenty of vegetables to keep his body fueled and his muscles full. Even in the off-season, he maintains a strict regimen, ensuring he’s always in striking distance of competition shape.
Achievements and Legacy
Choopan’s trophy cabinet is packed with accolades. From dominating regional competitions in Iran to winning the WBPF World Championships multiple times, his journey is marked by a series of victories that culminated in his Mr. Olympia win in 2022. Even after losing the title in 2023, he bounced back by winning the 2024 Arnold Classic and Arnold Classic UK, proving he’s not done yet.
With his relentless drive and unwavering focus, Hadi Choopan continues to be a force to be reckoned with. Whether it’s his insane conditioning, his unparalleled work ethic, or his refusal to back down, the Persian Wolf is a true embodiment of what it means to be a champion in bodybuilding.
As he gears up for his next battle on the Olympia stage, fans and competitors alike know that Choopan isn’t just another bodybuilder—he’s a relentless warrior, ready to reclaim his throne and solidify his legacy as one of the greats in the sport.
