In Episode 276 of the Podcast, host Dennis “The Threat” James joined Jose Raymond and Milos Sarcev to explore all the details of Arnold 2026, and during the show, James questioned Sam Sulek’s suitability for the classical physics division.
Sulek made his Pro debut this year in the Classic Physique category in Columbus, OH, placing eighth in his first outing, but it didn’t seem to impress social media star Dennis James. “I was a little surprised,” The Menace said. “The guy who finished ninth. How did they beat him? I don’t know,” he said.
While the men’s Classic Physique trophy went to Wesley Vissers, Sulek’s eighth place put him ahead of established stars such as Paul Kanu (ninth) and Hang Niu (tenth). “So for me, Sam would be ninth or tenth,” James added.
Dennis James suggests Sulek could thrive in the open division
“Sam’s not classic to me,” James continued. “I don’t see classical physics. I don’t know what everyone is talking about.” The Menace then gave some advice to the social media star. “My advice to Sam is to take a few years off, put on as much weight as you can and go to the Open and see where you are. Because for the Classic, it’s not you. Even if you put on weight, it doesn’t mean anything.”
James added that Sulek can make money even if he doesn’t compete at all. because of his YouTube following and sponsorship deals. “You can’t live off prize money,” James said. And Milos Sarchev agreed that Sulek needs to add more size to be a top contender. “He doesn’t have a classic body,” she said.
The Menace noted that he feels Sulek is a good guy and that his observations are purely technical. “I judge strictly, physically,” he said. “He has no business in the Classic. He has no business anywhere right now because he’s fast-tracked from zero to pro. If you put him in nationals, or USA, or any pro in bodybuilding, there’s no way he’s going to be a pro. We don’t even want to talk about the Classic. Even in Europe, there wasn’t such a weak line. Amateur last year.”
All eyes on Arnold Britain for Sulek’s next appearance
Sulek has a chance to prove James wrong as he is scheduled to enter the British Arnold Classic from March 27-29, 2026. No doubt the results will be even more interesting following The Menace’s comments.
Watch below to watch the full episode, where the panel discusses other results at the 2026 Arnold USA and other top bodybuilding news.
