Middle weights are so big looking these days. But by far, the most impressive middle weight out there right now is Shavis Higa from Hawaii. Not only is he from my homeland... but he has a very thick, symmetrical and balanced physique. He has a great track record of winning at the USA but never really done the Nationals. He should drop to the welters for this one but my guess is he will compete as a middle.
Next we have the Light Heavies. This is a class that I competed in for several years and it always seems to be the most dense and deep. This year seems to be no different. But one physique seems to be getting all the attention, Tamer El-Guindy. And for good reason, he is my pick for this years win! Tamer was ultra conditioned at the USA Champs this year and will show up in equal if not better shape for the Nationals. My guess is that he will out condition his opponents even if he loses a little on size to the bigger competitors in the class like Brandon Ray or Shawn Crump. He is my pick to win and may give a great run for the overall as well!
As for the heavy weight class. This is always a very watched class and for good reason, many of these winners go off to great IFBB Pro careers. My pick this year is Fred Smalls. If he improves his conditioning just a little then he will walk away with the heavy weight title. He has great symmetry, proportion and isn't distorted like some of the heavies can get.
For the Super Heavy weight class, this one everyone likes to look at some of the phenoms like Trey Brewer and the like. My pick this year is Jason Huh. He has the look of a Heavy but he is all Super Heavy! He just needs to tighten up a little and he is a walk away favorite. I think pictures say it all:
