Joseph Baena, the 28-year-old son of Arnold Schwarzenegger, has solidified his professional bodybuilding career with a first-place win at the International Natural Bodybuilding Association’s (INBA) Iron Gladiator competition in Southern California. This victory comes just days after his debut win in Denver, Colorado, where he secured three first-place finishes and a second-place finish in various categories.
Baena, who has been training alongside his father, Arnold Schwarzenegger, at Gold’s Gym in Venice Beach, competed in the Men’s Classic Physique Open Class C and Men’s Classic Physique True Novice divisions. His recent success has earned him professional status, mirroring his father’s illustrious bodybuilding career, which included seven Mr. Olympia titles.
Baena, who grew up primarily with his mother, Mildred 'Patty' Baena, in Bakersfield, California, has been open about his journey. He previously stated that he chose to compete through INBA because it is a reputable natural federation. His father, Schwarzenegger, publicly acknowledged Baena as his son in 2011, which contributed to the end of his 25-year marriage to Maria Shriver. The divorce was finalized in 2021.
Baena’s victories mark a significant milestone in his career, as he continues to follow in his father’s footsteps. The INBA Iron Gladiator competition serves as a national qualifier and is part of the NPC natural athlete pathway to the Olympia.