Samson Dauda gave the bodybuilding community a health scare following the 2024 Arnold Classic,  “I have to take myself to the hospital… my body is just failing at this point, and honestly, I just don’t know what else I could do.” But what followed was even more surprising. IFBB pro coach Milos Sarcev took to his Instagram to announce his split with the Nigerian Lion and described it as their ‘last dance’ together.

In the post the IFBB pro coach, Sarcev expressed pride in Dauda’s achievements during their time together, noting his remarkable transformation into one of the top bodybuilders globally and a significant contender for the coveted Mr. Olympia title. Sarcev acknowledged that with improved conditioning, Dauda would have been an even more formidable force on the stage.

“Needless to say, I am beyond proud of Samson and what he has accomplished in the very short time we worked together,” Sarcev said in his post’s caption. “[Dauda] has completely transformed his physique and morphed himself into one of the very best bodybuilders in the World and [one of the] greatest threats for the Mr. Olympia title. As the whole world knows, with improved conditioning (that we failed to bring), he would be extremely hard to beat.”

They came so close to winning many championships only to not be able to take the one final step to success. Over the 13 years they have spent together, Dauda’s finishes in the top 2 bodybuilding championships have been impressive.
– They finished fourth in the 2022 Arnold Classic and first in the 2023 Arnold Classic.
– They finished third in the 2023 Mr. Olympia, and second in the 2022 Mr. Olympia.

According to a judging review by the National Physique Committee and IFBB Vice President Tyler Manion, for the 2024 Arnold Classic, a lack of conditioning made all the difference for the 2022 Mr. Olympia Hadi Choopan to take the throne and for Dauda to settle for an honorable 2nd place finish. VP said, “Hadi had a pretty clear victory. Extremely striated and extremely full, this was the best package we’ve seen from [Choopan] for sure… [Dauda] needs to get to that next level of conditioning. He’s pushing towards it but has not quite nailed it yet on stage.” Dauda’s finish in the top 2 bodybuilding championships has been impressive, thanks to Sarcev’s relentless effort to guide and realize the best conditioning.

Bodybuilding page Bis and Tris also shed light on the departure of the IFBB pro coach. They wrote in the caption, “Milos Sarcev announces that he and Samson Dauda have parted ways. The Arnold Classic was their ‘last dance’, says Milos.

Despite the split, Sarcev wished Dauda and his partner, Marlena, all the best, emphasizing the importance of fulfilling Dauda’s destiny. He further wrote, “Wishing Samson (and Marlena) all the best in the World and most importantly for Samson – fulfilment of his destiny. #TheNext.” 

READ MORE: “Very Sorry for Him”: Shocked Bodybuilding World Worries About Samson Dauda Amidst Sad Health Rumors

This unexpected turn of events has left many wondering about the future trajectories of both Dauda and Sarcev in the competitive bodybuilding arena.

Fans baffled by split

The bodybuilding community is grappling with the aftermath of this shocking news, and fans took to the Bis and Tris’ post, expressing their deep sadness and frustration in the comment section. In a straightforward comment, one fan expressed their sadness and disappointment, writing, “damn this makes me sad.”

Another netizen acknowledged the collaborative efforts between Dauda and Sarcev and penned, “Damn. They really brought some great packages together. I’m sure they both have great respect for each other.” The duo had been a force to reckon with over the last 2.5 years.

Others expressed their shock questioning the sudden move, owing to the fact that Dauda had made great strides under Sarcev, “Why why why… 1 missed peak but years of growth and wins behind it,” they wrote. “Sad to see honestly. Milos is his biggest advocate and helped get him to 3rd!” one reflected and emphasized Sarcev’s role as a significant supporter in Samson Dauda’s journey.

Even as this surprising development occurs, the speculation arises: who will Dauda choose as his next coach? Will the Pro Creator take him under his wing, or will there be someone else? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

READ MORE: The Bodybuilding World Disparages Mr. Olympia as Arnold Schwarzenegger Leaves No Option for Them but to Improve: “Arnold Outclasses the Olympia”