Since its inception, the Classic Physique division has skyrocketed in popularity. Some might even argue that fans look forward to Classic Physique more than Men’s Open bodybuilding. While Men’s Open bodybuilding remains the main event and the prize money is more, Classic Phyquie’s popularity has continued to rise. A massive reason for the division’s growth is because of the division’s champion, Chris Bumstead. Bumstead has established himself as the greatest Classic Physique champion, winning the title four times. However, bodybuilding legend Samir Bannout has a different opinion.

The Canadian has dominated the Mr. Olympia Classic Physique stage for the last four years. He also has a massive fan base of 14.9 million Instagram followers and 2.9 million Youtube subscribers. However, his transparency and regular engagement make him a fan favorite. Despite everything, Bannout thinks ‘CBum’ can’t claim to be Mr. Olympia.

Why the Classic Physique champion isn’t Mr. Olympia

Samir Bannout is a bodybuilding legend. Know for his balanced physique, insane back, and conditioning, Bannout won the Mr. Olympia title in 1983. The former Mr. Olympia regularly appears as a co-host in the Muscle Maturity Podcast with John Hansen and Nick Trigili. In the latest episode of the podcast, Bannout made a surprising statement about the four-time Mr. Olympia Classic Physique Champion.

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Bannout said that CBum would have a tough time if he moves up a weight class to compete in Men’s Open bodybuilding. “I would like to see Bumstead be tough and say he’s going to the Open,” said Samir Bannout. He explained that Bumstead’s coach Hany Rambod, who also coaches reigning Mr. Olympia Hadi Choopan and runner-up Derek Lunsford, would bring CBum “to the (men’s open) stage in top quality, top condition.”

While expressing he didn’t want to disrespect the Canadian bodybuilder, Bannount said, “only one man standing as Mr. Olympia right now and that’s Hadi Choopan.” He gave the example of Derek Lunsford’s, who came from 212 to Men’s Open and almost became Mr. Olympia. “CBum is not Mr. Olympia… until he wins with the big boys,” added the bodybuilding legend.

Chris Bumstead on competing in Open bodybuilding

In 2022, the Canadian bodybuilding star addressed rumors of competing in the Men’s Open division. CBum said he didn’t want to move to open bodybuilding because Men’s Open competitors use more PEDs, and Bumstead wants to avoid that. However, he said he would consider it in the future.

After winning his fourth Mr. Olympia Classic Physique title, Bumsead revealed, “I might step on stage for fun at the Open. It won’t be at the Olympia, it will be after the Olympia.” The reigning champion said he might step on the Men’s open stage during the Arnold Classic.

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What did you make of Samir Bannout’s statement? Do you agree with the bodybuilding legend? Write your views in the comments.