Something major has been unfolding behind the gym doors — and fans have been following every step.
Joseph Baena, 28, the son of Arnold Schwarzenegger, has officially made his mark in the bodybuilding world by winning his very first competition at the NPC Natural Colorado State.
Training side by side with his father
Being the child of a global icon isn’t always easy — especially when that icon is Arnold Schwarzenegger. Expectations are naturally sky-high. But Joseph has now proven he’s more than ready to rise to the challenge.
At the NPC Natural Colorado State, he didn’t just compete — he dominated the stage.
He secured first place in several categories, including Men’s Open Bodybuilding Heavyweight, Men’s Classic Physique True Novice, and Men’s Classic Physique Novice. Celebrating on Instagram, he proudly shared:
“Mission Accomplished! 🥇”
His victory came shortly after training sessions with his father at the legendary Gold’s Gym in Venice Beach, California. Arnold — a seven-time Mr. Olympia and five-time Mr. Universe — personally guided him, helping refine his posing and overall performance.
Fans were quick to react. One commented, “Like father, like son — both in incredible shape 🔥🔥,” while another added, “Twins indeed ❤️🙌🔥.”
From struggle to strength
Comparisons to his father are inevitable — and hard to ignore. But Joseph’s journey hasn’t been easy.
He previously revealed that he wasn’t always athletic:
“People sometimes forget that I used to be chubby in high school,” he shared on Instagram.
He recalled being cut from his basketball and soccer teams because he couldn’t keep up. Swimming, however, changed everything — becoming his first real introduction to fitness and discipline.
Joseph has also spoken openly about being bullied because of his weight, which became a turning point in his life:
“I was bullied when I was a kid… It was a big struggle finding myself and building the motivation to change my body.”
Stepping out of the shadows
Joseph is the son of Arnold Schwarzenegger and Mildred Patricia “Patty” Baena, who previously worked as his household manager. His identity remained private for years, with both father and son only realizing their connection later on.
For a long time, Joseph chose not to use his father’s last name, determined to carve his own path. Now, however, he appears ready to embrace the legacy — and build one of his own.
Just a day after his big win, he was spotted walking through Los Angeles, showing off the physique that’s already turning heads. Safe to say — this is only the beginning.
