Post-retirement, Chris Bumstead plans to give back to the Classic Physique division
The 60th anniversary of Joe Weider’s Olympia Fitness & Performance Weekend proved to be an unforgettable spectacle, with fans treated to an intense Classic Physique Olympia competition. Just a day after securing his sixth consecutive title, Chris Bumstead took to the stage for an athlete seminar on October 13, 2024, revealing not only his plans for retirement but also his vision for the future of the Classic Physique division—including a boost in prize money for 2025.
A Bigger Prize Awaits: Cbum’s 2025 Plan
In a surprising move, Chris Bumstead revealed plans to elevate the Classic Physique division even further by increasing the prize money for the 2025 Olympia contest. This initiative, which will involve a personal contribution from Bumstead himself, aims to continue the growth of the division that has been a major part of his career.
“I haven’t said this anywhere else but I want to talk to Dan [Solomon, Olympia President] about spicing up the prize a little bit for Classic, coming from myself,” Bumstead said. “That’s going to be some Cbum money, that’s coming from me. Next year, they’re going to be getting a fatter check than I got this year.”
This gesture underscores Chris Bumstead’s appreciation for the sport and his desire to give back to the community that has supported him throughout his journey. He hopes the increased prize will fuel the ambitions of the next generation of Classic Physique athletes.
Who Will Take Over the Classic Physique Throne?
With Chris Bumstead stepping away, the question of who will fill the void in the Classic Physique division looms large. During his seminar, Bumstead discussed the potential contenders who could rise to the challenge, mentioning Mike Sommerfeld, Urs Kalecinski, Ramon Queiroz, and Wesley Vissers as top prospects.
“Every year it’s been swapping around. I’m really excited that I’m hoping me stepping away is going to put a fire under everyone’s ass to come back even better and better,” Bumstead said. “I think it’s going to be a tight show. It could be Ramon coming back up, Wesley could prove what everyone wanted to see this year next year, Mike could take it, Urs could take it—it could be anyone.”
Chris Bumstead Reflects on Retirement Decision
Chris Bumstead’s retirement was not a spur-of-the-moment choice; it was a decision he grappled with for over a year. During the seminar, he candidly shared that he almost stepped away from the sport in 2023 due to a challenging prep that included a lat injury and personal struggles.
“Honestly, the truth is last year was almost my last year,” Bumstead revealed. “It was from a place of a bit of fear, a bit of resentment… I felt like I was walking away from the sport in a way that I didn’t want to, and I finished on such a beautiful note.”
Determined to leave on his own terms, Chris Bumstead pushed through another year, leading to what he called “probably my favorite prep that I’ve ever had.” He emphasized how everything came together for his final outing, allowing him to deliver his best performance yet.
“Getting to say goodbye to the crowd in my final speech, it was an honor, and it just felt right,” Bumstead shared, expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to retire on a high note.
View this post on Instagram
A New Chapter for Chris Bumstead
While Chris Bumstead’s retirement marks the end of an era, it’s clear that his influence on bodybuilding will continue. His reflections during the seminar revealed how his priorities have evolved, especially since becoming a father, shifting his perspective on competition and life.
“Just understanding in life what’s truly important to you… In the last year since having a daughter and a family now, my perspective has changed a lot about what’s most important for me. Sometimes more isn’t always more,” Bumstead noted.
With the Classic Physique Olympia title now up for grabs, the 2025 season promises to be a thrilling one for fans. All eyes are on the upcoming Arnold Classic in Ohio this March, where contenders will have the chance to establish themselves as frontrunners for the next Olympia.
The Legacy of a Champion
Chris Bumstead leaves behind a legacy as one of the most iconic figures in the sport, with six Classic Physique Olympia titles and a lasting impact on the division he helped popularize. Although he will no longer be competing, his commitment to increasing the 2025 prize money shows that he remains invested in the future of bodybuilding. As fans say goodbye to Cbum the competitor, they can look forward to seeing him continue to shape the sport in new ways.
For more news and updates on all things post-Olympia, bodybuilding, and fitness – stay tuned to the Generation Iron Fitness Network!
