An aesthetic physique and a meticulous body are the key requirements of bodybuilding. However, a third and hidden exigency for bodybuilding is robustness, as no one can ever perform well with degrading health. Likewise, the Canadian bodybuilder, Chris Bumstead’s health challenges cost him the reverent title of Mr. Olympia in 2018.

A couple of years ago, Chris Bumstead talked about his health condition during the 2018 Mr. Olympia contest, and how it took away his name from the title.

Chris Bumstead degrading health stopped him from winning Mr. Olympia’s title

In 2018, Chris Bumstead came forward to clear the air about his health condition during the contest. While talking with his fans, Chris was brutally honest in the video as he candidly disclosed his chronic ailment. After he underwent a series of tests in the hospital, he revealed that he was diagnosed with an autoimmune kidney disorder called IgA Nephropathy.

Chris said, “It was terrifying to be clearly honest”. CBum had to undergo various kidney tests, including a biopsy. As he went through those painful moments again, he noted, “it’s kind of the feeling of you getting punched in the kidneys”. Chris was sent home after the diagnosis. The doctors prescribed the diuretic pill, Lasix, in order to help his body retire excessive fluid. Fighting back tears, Chris said, “I was 4 weeks out in the hospital looking like cr*p”.

Read More: “There’s No Cure for It”: Chris Bumstead Shared the Details of Severe Health Illness That Cost Him 2018 Mr. Olympia Title

CBum’s condition got so concerning that he even lost his appetite and physical capacity to work out. On this, he stated, “hadn’t trained for six days, barely eaten anything with even like three meals a day”. Clearly, Bumstead faced a really challenging time before the 2018 Mr. Olympia contest.

CBum followed a disciplined regime and made it to 2018 Mr. Olympia

After having such an aching episode, one can easily give up both mentally and physically. However, CBum’s determination and zest for his beloved sport got him into the contest. In the same video, he expressed his heartfelt gratitude towards his sister and the doctors who helped him throughout his recovery. He said, “so grateful that I made it through it […] wouldn’t have made it through this prep without them”.

Although Chris may have gone through several health challenges, his passion for bodybuilding earned him the position of runner-up at the 2018 Mr. Olympia contest. With CBum getting his lucky look back, do you think he will be able to earn the Mr. Olympia title this year?

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