While the Mr. Olympia (open division) remains the main event of the Olympics week, Classic Phyqiue comes in second. Despite its relatively recent formation in 2017, the Classic Physique division has garnered immense popularity among fans. Unlike the Open division, which has evolved over the years, Classic Physique bodybuilders like Chris Bumstead emulate the Golden Era. The Golden Era of bodybuilding ended with the onset of the mass monsters. 6x Mr. Olympia Dorian Yates, the original mass monster, changed how open bodybuilders look.

Over the years, competitors focused on muscularity and conditioning above all else. However, reigning champion Chirs Bumstead didn’t expect Terrick El Guindy to compare him with the arguable GOAT of bodybuilding, Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Chris Bumstead is a pioneer like Arnold Schwarzenegger

Among the scores of champions who’ve graced the bodybuilding stage, Arnold Schwarzenegger casts the longest shadow. The Austrian Oak was the first Mr. Olympia who won the title a record-setting seven times. Besides being a prolific champion, Arnie was a pioneer and an ambassador of the sport. He helped bring the sport into the public eye, promoted it in mainstream media, and dispelled countless myths and taboos surrounding bodybuilding.

Similarly, Chris Bumstead is a pioneer in his division. CBum is arguably the most popular active bodybuilder today. The 28-year-old has over 20 million combined followers on social media, rivaling Schwarzenegger’s 25.5 million Instagram following. Like the Austrian Oak, Bumstead is an ambassador for the sport and his division, constantly interacting with fans.

In light of his contribution, Terrick El Guindy asked, “You are the symbol of the classic physique. When we look back in 25 years we’re going to say Chris Bumstead was possibly the Arnold Schwarzenegger of Classic Physique. How do you feel about having that title?”

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The Canadian bodybuilding icon felt honored. “I mean I wouldn’t self-proclaim it,” responded CBum. “But it’s an honor to be considered that. Some of the guys I’m going against have pushed me to be better…” added the four-time Classic Physique champion.

Despite his popularity and accolades, the champion bodybuilder remains humble. “I’m just doing what I do best,” said Bumstead.

Since 2019, Chris Bumstead has won the Classic Physique Mr. Olympia title four times consecutively. He is currently in Orlando, Florida, to defend his title for the fifth time.

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Do you think he’ll live up to the title of Arnold Schwarzenegger of Classic Physique at the 2023 Mr. Olympia? Write your thoughts in the comments.