How much different would the Olympia competition look if Classic competitors made the move to Open?
Bodybuilding great Chris Bumstead knows a thing or two about the Olympia given his history of success. The 6x Classic Physique champion has been enjoying retirement while keeping up with his own fitness and the happenings in the bodybuilding world.
Bumstead shared a message on Instagram claiming that if Classic Physique competitors competed in Open, the Top 10 at the Olympia “would look a lot different.” The original message was shared by an account on X with Bumstead’s name. While it was not his official account, Bumstead seemed to agree with the message by reposting it.
After winning his sixth Classic Physique Olympia title in October 2024, Bumstead announced that he would be retiring. He took the stage one final time during the EVLS Prague Pro in Men’s Open and finished as the runner-up. Bumstead has not competed since. He has spoken about his new regime in retirement and that includes remaining in great shape. Now, he is taking on new challenges and goals while remaining as big as possible.
The Classic Physique division has received praise from the likes of Arnold Schwarzenegger over the years. Many believe this division brings the best aesthetic physiques while the Open has focused on size. Others do not buy into the hype and believe Open is still king.
Urs Kalecinski Making Move to Men’s Open
Kalecinski will give this theory a chance as he becomes the latest to make the move to Men’s Open right away this year.
Kalecinski announced this move last week. He has been one of the three best bodybuilders in the world during his time in Classic but has decided to make the move into the biggest division. Kalecinski discussed different reasons he has decided to make the move to Open. It begins with the difficulty to cut weight and how it has hindered his progress in bringing the best to the stage.
After this announcement, Bumstead shared a post in support of Kalecinski.
“Little Bear is growing up. Go show ’em what the Classic boys are made of.”
Urs Kalecinski will abandon his qualification for this year’s Olympia and begin pursuing it in Men’s Open. He will make his Open debut on Sept. 7 during the Promuscle Italy Pro. Kalecinski shared that he is currently 17kg above the weight cap for Classic and to be stage ready, he would have to cut down significantly.
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