Hadi Choopan, known as the Persian Wolf, won the 2024 Arnold Classic as Iranian bodybuilders continue to take home medals on the world stage.

Following his triumph, Choopan took a moment to address Arnold Schwarzenegger, the godfather of modern day bodybuilding, saying, "When I was a kid, I spent a lot of money to watch Arnold's movies. My biggest wish was to see Arnold up close and take a picture with him. Today, we are standing on a stage together, and the legend of my dreams is giving me an award."

The 36-year-old expressed his gratitude, stating, "It's an honor for me that the world's greatest bodybuilder is giving me a medal today. I am very happy to see you and stand next to you, and I am honored to have a picture with you."

The competition took place on Saturday in Ohio, witnessed by a sold-out crowd.

In November, the Iranian bodybuilding team won nine gold, five silver, and nine bronze medals at the men's World Bodybuilding Championship in Spain.

The sport has seen hardliners slam the 'nudity' with Mohammad Sadegh Koushki calling on President Ebrahim Raisi to suspend bodybuilding competitions altogether back in September.