CBum left the Olympia stage for the last time to a standing ovation.
Chris Bumstead is officially a six-time Classic Physique Olympia champion, and he is also officially retired from competition.
The man known as CBum what is dominant as ever when he took both the prejudging and final stagesin Las Vegas, Nevada on the weekend of October 11th and 12th. He won this title going away over runner-up Mike Sommerfeld and third voice finisher Urs Kalecinski. He was already the longest reigning champion in the division’s history.
The most significant moment of the wvening came during his interview with Bob Cicherillo. After thinking several people, it was a bittersweet moment because it would be his last time competing on this stage.
Bumstead first took the Olympia stage in 2017, when he finished second to then champion Breon Ansley.. He placed second again in 2018 before beginning his run at the top in 2019. Since that first win, bumstead has gained popularity that has not been seen in bodybuilding in decades, even cracking into the mainstream world of pop culture.
The husband and father is now focusing on his family and business ventures going forward, but he emphasized to the fans that He will remain with the sport and fitness industry going forward.
*This may be the last time you see me up here on this stage, but you will still see me around.”
Bumstead is the second champion to retire on the Olympia stage this weekend. Eight time Figure Olympia winner Cydney Gillon also called it a career after her victory.
Chris Bumstead Announces Retirement After Winning 6th Mr. Olympia Title
The Classic King Steps Down
In a moment that will go down in bodybuilding history, Chris Bumstead, the reigning and now six-time Classic Physique Mr. Olympia champion, shocked the world by announcing his retirement on the Olympia stage in 2024. The Canadian powerhouse, who has redefined the Classic Physique division and become a global icon for bodybuilding, capped off his illustrious career with a victory that cements his legacy as one of the sport’s greatest.
Chris Bumstead’s Legendary Run in Classic Physique
In 2024, after months of speculation about whether this would be his final Olympia, Bumstead not only met expectations but surpassed them. His physique was flawless—showcasing refined muscularity, impeccable conditioning, and the timeless proportions that have defined his career. Fans and judges alike were in awe as Bumstead took to the stage, securing his sixth consecutive Classic Physique title.
The Emotional Farewell
Following his win, the audience expected the usual victory speech—a moment to celebrate yet another title—but instead, Bumstead delivered a heartfelt message that left the arena in stunned silence.
The announcement took everyone by surprise, as the 29-year-old still seemed to be in his prime. Bumstead thanked his coach, family, fans, and everyone involved with the NPC, IFBB, and the Olympia, reflecting on the support that fueled his rise to the top. He acknowledged the physical and mental toll the sport takes, saying it was time to focus on new chapters in his life.
The Legacy of Cbum
Chris Bumstead’s impact on the world of bodybuilding goes far beyond his six Olympia titles. His journey from a young athlete in Ontario to one of the most influential figures in the fitness industry is nothing short of inspiring. Through his transparency about the struggles of competing—battling injuries and health issues, including an autoimmune disease—Bumstead has shown that champions are made not only by their victories but by their resilience.
Bumstead’s training style, work ethic, and aesthetic appeal have shaped how athletes approach the Classic Physique division. His adherence to the “classic” look, harkening back to legends like Arnold Schwarzenegger and Frank Zane, helped solidify the division as a fan favorite, distinguishing it from the mass monster trend seen in the Open division. Cbum’s ability to balance size with symmetry has set a new standard in the sport, influencing a generation of aspiring bodybuilders.
What’s Next for Bumstead?
As Chris Bumstead steps away from competitive bodybuilding, the question on everyone’s mind is: what’s next? Though his retirement marks the end of an era, it’s clear that Bumstead’s influence on fitness and bodybuilding will continue. Over the years, he has built a massive online presence with millions of followers across platforms like Instagram and YouTube, where he shares his life, training tips, and motivational content.
There is also speculation that Bumstead could delve deeper into entrepreneurship. Retirement from the stage could allow him to expand these businesses and continue to inspire people around the world through fitness, health, and lifestyle content.
Bumstead hinted at wanting to spend more time with family and friends, particularly enjoying life outside of the grueling demands of bodybuilding prep. He mentioned the possibility of exploring new ventures, whether in business or personal interests, but remained humble, saying he would always be connected to the sport that gave him everything.
The Future of Classic Physique
As the reigning six-time champion bows out, the Classic Physique division will inevitably feel the void left by his departure. His dominance at the Olympia shaped the division’s trajectory, and future competitors will now step into a new era, where the standard set by Bumstead will serve as the benchmark for excellence.
Though names like Mike Summerfield and Urs Kalecinski have risen as potential successors, none have yet managed to eclipse the shadow cast by Bumstead’s reign. The future of Classic Physique promises to be an exciting one, but it will be hard for any competitor to match the legacy of the man who defined the division for nearly a decade.
Final Thoughts
Chris Bumstead’s retirement marks the end of one of the most celebrated careers in modern bodybuilding. His six Olympia wins, coupled with his immense influence on fitness culture, have immortalized him as a legend in the sport. While fans will miss seeing Cbum on the Olympia stage, his legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts for years to come.
As the curtain closes on Bumstead’s competitive career, one thing is clear: his influence on the world of bodybuilding is far from over.
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