Joseph Baena makes professional bodybuilding debut at World Cup

Joseph Baena, the 29-year-old son of actor and former politician Arnold Schwarzenegger, placed fifth in the classic physique category during his professional debut at the INBA PNBA Pro/Am World Cup in El Segundo, California. Competing on Saturday, November 7, Baena achieved his pre-competition goal of cracking the top five in what marked his third overall bodybuilding appearance.

Reflecting on the milestone in a video shared on social media, Baena expressed excitement over his performance. "I'm extremely proud of myself," he said, calling the event an incredible experience for his first show as a professional athlete after beginning his competitive journey earlier in the year.

For his posing routine, Baena brought a cinematic element to the stage by performing to Ennio Morricone's instrumental track "The Trio" from the 1966 Western film The Good, the Bad and the Ugly. Social media users quickly noted his physical similarities and posing style to his famous father, echoing sentiments of "Like father, like son."

Baena has previously credited his father with sparking his interest in the sport, noting that Schwarzenegger gave him a bodybuilding encyclopedia during his college years. He has also described his father as an exceptional training partner who ensures he maintains strict discipline in the gym, though Baena noted he prepared for his professional debut without a coach.

While Baena marked his debut in California, the international bodybuilding scene also saw major action over the weekend at the 2026 Romania Muscle Fest Pro in Bucharest. Held from November 7 to 8, the event featured competition across ten divisions, with Ahmed Juraybi claiming the Men's Open Bodybuilding title and Anastasia Korableva edging out Paula Ranta in the women's division.

At the same time, the global fitness community is mourning the loss of Scottish IFBB Fitness Pro Alix Small, who passed away on November 8 at the age of 26. Small, a two-time international champion who earned her pro card at age 19, was widely admired for her athletic achievements and her public advocacy regarding mental health and her recovery from anorexia.