Reigning Mr. Olympia Gets Hilarious Birthday Surprise From Legendary Coach: “Proud of You Brother”

Derek Lunsford, who made history after becoming the first two-division Olympia champion, celebrated his 31st birthday. The bodybuilding champion celebrated May 14th with his family, friends, and loved ones. However, 24-time Olympia-winning coach Hany Rambod had the most hilarious surprise for his pupil.

The Pro Creator wished Derek Lunsford a happy birthday on social media and showed everyone the surprise he had planned for the champion. Rambod started with a heartfelt note about Lunsford, who has bloomed into the reining Mr. Olympia under his tutelage. “Happy Birthday Champ Champ!” wrote Rambod.

“Extremely blessed to have the privilege to see you grow into the man you are today! From making history to raising your family. Proud of you brother and all of your accomplishments!” wrote the legendary coach. Adding to his message, Rambod also got someone to impersonate Elvis Presley and sing Lunsford a Happy Birthday.

“P.S I hope you enjoyed your personal Elvis show… We’re checking to see if he’s available for the Olympia,” added Rambod. The reigning Mr. Olympia loved the surprise and thanked Rambod. “I’m grateful to have you in my life as a coach, a mentor, a friend, and brother,” Lunsford commented.

He also welcomed the Pro Creator’s offer to get Elvis for the upcoming Mr. Olympia. “This year I’ll be taking some tips from Elvis,” added the two-division champion. He also attempted the birthday squats challenge and completed 21 reps with four plates on the Smith machine. Despite having fun, Lunsford didn’t take it easy in the gym.

The upcoming Mr. Olympia will be a tough one

The 2024 Mr. Olympia is only a few months away, hence the defending champion didn’t take a day off, even on his birthday. The former 212 Olympia winner has a lot to prove after last year’s controversy. Although Lunsford defeated Hadi Choopan to claim the title, many thought Choopan had been robbed. The 2022 Mr. Olympia storming off the stage didn’t make things any better.

While Choopan and Lunsford train under Rambod and the Iranian champion apologized later, he has now returned with a vengeance. Choopan dominated the competition at the 2024 Arnold Classic in Ohio and Birmingham, UK. The former Mr. Olympia is eager to reclaim his crown. Lunsford also has to fend off top contender Samson Dauda, who recently joined the O2 team in Dubai.

So while the 31-year-old champion made history in 2023, the upcoming Mr. Olympia contest will be all about solidifying himself as a champion. That’s why he isn’t taking a break even on special days. Yet, what did you think of Rambod’s surprise for Lunsford? Do you think he will retain his title? Tell us in the comments.