Hey! I’m Mike, I go by DJ AXCESS, and I’m a DJ and public speaker based in Columbus, Ohio. One of the weekends I anticipate each year is the Arnold Sports Festival, a true spectacle of athleticism and energy right here in my hometown. This year, as in many before, I had the privilege of partnering with the renowned supplement brand ANIMAL, bringing the power of music to their legendary “CAGE.”
For those unfamiliar, THE CAGE is a fenced-in, raw gym environment where the world’s most formidable powerlifters showcase their strength, unconstrained by traditional competition rules. It’s a place where records are shattered, and human potential is pushed to its absolute limits. I’m thrilled to share that for the second consecutive year, ANIMAL’s booth has been awarded “Best Booth” at the Arnold Sports Festival, a testament to the incredible experience we create.
The Arnold Sports Festival resonates with me deeply, mirroring the electric atmosphere of the music festivals I cherish. It’s a multi-stage event, pulsating with energy, where attendees express their passions through unique outfits and a shared enthusiasm. The air crackles with excitement, a palpable sense of community that’s truly captivating.
My role? To provide the sonic backdrop to this incredible display of strength. Typically, my playlist features a dynamic blend of metal, hip-hop, and dubstep, designed to amplify the intensity of the lifts. However, this year, I had the opportunity to incorporate afrobeats and club music, catering to the diverse tastes of the athletes. It was a rewarding experience to see how different genres could fuel their performances.
The weekend, while exhilarating, is undeniably demanding. The sheer vocal exertion of hyping up the lifters nearly cost me my voice on the first day. A valuable lesson learned: even a seasoned professional needs to warm up those vocal cords. Fortunately, I corrected my approach for the remaining days. My breaks were minimal, limited to quick lunch runs and the task of transporting equipment to and from the distant parking garage. The Columbus Convention Center, while a fantastic venue, certainly presents logistical challenges.
The lifts themselves were nothing short of awe-inspiring. Highlights included two 1005lb squats, a record breaking 1032lb deadlift, a powerful 300lb single-arm clean, and a 760lb bench press. ANIMAL’s commitment to showcasing both male and female athletes is commendable, as both genders delivered truly remarkable performances. The sheer dedication and power on display were nothing short of amazing.
Beyond the music, I also stepped into a more prominent role as a co-MC. While ANIMAL typically employs two MCs for the weekend, my experience and communication skills allowed me to seamlessly integrate into the commentary. Leveraging my gym knowledge, I helped to build anticipation for the lifts, promote ANIMAL’s products, and engage the crowd. This experience highlighted the value of a DJ who can not only curate the perfect soundtrack, but also effectively communicate and represent a brand.
Looking ahead, ANIMAL has plans to elevate their presence at the 2026 Arnold Sports Festival, aiming for an even bigger and louder experience. I’m excited about the prospect of contributing to their continued success and potentially achieving the “hat trick” of Best Booth awards.
If you’re seeking a DJ with extensive experience in sports events, someone who can amplify your brand’s message and drive sales through engaging on-mic presence, I would be honored to collaborate with you. I bring years of experience, a deep understanding of the sports and fitness world, and a commitment to creating unforgettable experiences.
The Arnold Sports Festival is a testament to the power of human potential, a celebration of strength, dedication, and community. It’s an event that leaves a lasting impression, and I’m grateful to have played a part in its success.
