Beefed-up bodybuilding 'mutant' Nick Walker is no mere mortal

Nick Walker is not made like mere mortals - and the 27-year-old bodybuilder proved as much by achieving a recent career highlight. Photo / Getty

Nick Walker is still on cloud nine after taking out the prestigious Arnold Classic on the weekend.

Inspired by Arnold Schwarzenegger, the annual competition pits the world's most hardcore bodybuilders against each other and there were some seriously wild rigs on show this year.

Last year's event was postponed because of the pandemic and 27-year-old Walker clearly used the time to his advantage, becoming the youngest winner in 30 years.

The American — nicknamed "The Mutant" — pipped Iain Valliere for top spot after the pair faced off in the final comparisons.

"One of the greatest feelings I have ever felt, but what made this even better was seeing how happy my friend @iainvalliere was for me," Walker wrote on Instagram on Wednesday night, alongside a video of him being announced as the winner.

"Like I always said winning feels so good, but the memories and friendships made, nothing compares."

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A post shared by Nick "the Mutant" Walker (@nick_walker39)

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A post shared by Nick "the Mutant" Walker (@nick_walker39)

Terrence Ruffin finished first in the Arnold Classic Physique component of the event, Missy Truscott won the Fitness International award and Jennifer Dorie took home the trophy in the Bikini International competition.

Schwarzenegger, the bodybuilding icon who transitioned into an acting career in Hollywood before turning his hand to American politics, was on hand to present some of the awards.

"Congratulations to all of the winners at this year's @arnoldsports classic! You are all true champions, and I look forward to seeing you guys very soon," he wrote on social media.

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Walked picked up a winner's cheque worth $AUD180,000 for his troubles but there's no time to rest. He'll be back in action early in October at the Olympia Fitness and Performance Weekend.

In addition to the Arnold Classic title, Walker also took home the Most Muscular award.

He only turned professional last year and also won this year's 2021 New York Pro before continuing his hot streak at the Arnold Classic.