Regan Grimes is celebrating this morning after winning the Open category portion of the 2026 Austrian Oak Pro and earning his spot at the Mr. Olympia final in Las Vegas. But celebrations in the Classic Physique division, topped by Zhivko Petkov, were marred by Michael Daboul, who was so upset with placing third that he could be seen visibly upset on stage, protesting the result verbally, and even refusing to engage in the official photographs
Daboul’s unsportsman-like scenes unfolded as Bulgarian bodybuilder, Zhivko Petkov, was awarded first place at the IFBB Austian Oak Olympia qualifier on August 24, 2026, putting Germany’s Florian Hartlage in the runner-up spot, and leaving Daboul out in third. The big man was so upset with the judges ruling that he began to berate the panel while still on stage. He then started to walk off in protest but was persuaded to return to the stage. Daboul was still unable to keep his cool, however, and refused to engage with the official photographer, putting his hands on his hips as Zhivko tried to carry on regardless.
“I really apologize for the way I reacted after the result,” said Syrian bodybuilder, while making an apology his actions later that evening. “I let my emotions take control of me and that is not how I want to represent myself as a professional athlete,”
Regan Grimes Qualifies for the 2026 Mr. Olympia
There was plenty of positivity in the Open division in Austria, however, as Regan Grimes made a ‘better late than never’ showing on stage that earned him a place in the biggest bodybuilding event of the year. “We’re going to the Olympia,” said the French-Canadian as he walked backstage with his trophy
On the night, Grimes flexed his way past stiff competition from Joan Pradells who placed third, and Damian Kuffel who made runner up
2026 IFBB Austrian Oak Full Results
Here are the winners from the four categories contested in Austra:
- Men’s Open: Regan Grimes
- Classic Physique: Zhivko Petkov
- Bikini: Ivanna Escandar
- Women’s Figure: Kristina Zafirova
Joe Weider’s Olympia Fitness & Performance Weekend takes place from Sept. 24 to 27, 2026 in Las Vegas. For more information, click here.
