Hany Rambod believes that the 2025 Arnold Classic is not off the table for Derek Lunsford
The 2024 Mr. Olympia competition, held in Las Vegas, Nevada, left fans buzzing with excitement and surprise as bodybuilding’s top stars took the stage. The Open division, in particular, saw a major shake-up when Samson Dauda earned the prestigious Mr. Olympia title, becoming the 19th bodybuilder in history to do so. More surprising was the drop in placing for former Olympia champion Derek Lunsford, who placed third this year. In light of this surprising outcome, bodybuilding coach and guru Hany Rambod appeared on the Cutler Cast podcast on October 21, 2024, to discuss what went wrong for Derek Lunsford, and to hint at a possible entry into the 2025 Arnold Classic next year.
Lunsford’s Next Move: Muscle Maturity and Proportionality
Hany Rambod shared his thoughts on what the former Mr. Olympia champion, Derek Lunsford, needs to do to reclaim his throne. While Lunsford made improvements in his chest size, Rambod explained that this newfound muscle growth unintentionally threw off his overall balance, particularly in his legs.
“I think Derek looked good, but his lower body and upper body need to jive better. His chest grew, but it made his legs look flat from the front,” said Rambod.
Hany Rambod went on to explain that Lunsford needs to work on creating more “bulbous quads” to restore the balance between his upper and lower body. He believes this is a matter of muscle maturity, which will come with time and the right approach to training.
“He’s not tired; his body just needs to season,” Rambod emphasized, noting that Lunsford’s legs, in particular, need time to catch up to the gains he’s made in other areas.
Eyeing the 2025 Arnold Classic: A Strategic Move?
One of the most intriguing moments of the podcast came when Hany Rambod hinted that Lunsford may be considering a run at the 2025 Arnold Classic. This would mark Lunsford’s first appearance at the prestigious event in Columbus, Ohio, and could offer him a chance to fine-tune his physique ahead of the next Mr. Olympia competition.
“I think he could go either way,” Rambod said. “He could decide to do the Arnold and work on his muscle maturity or take some time off to reset.”
Competing at the Arnold Classic would not only give Derek Lunsford more stage time to refine his physique but would also provide an opportunity to go head-to-head with some of the biggest names in bodybuilding. Reigning Mr. Olympia Samson Dauda has already confirmed his participation in the 2025 Arnold Classic, and Andrew Jacked, another top contender, has also announced his entry into the event.
If Derek Lunsford chooses to compete, the stage is set for an exciting showdown at one of bodybuilding’s most prestigious events. Fans will have to wait and see whether Lunsford opts for a period of growth and reflection or jumps back into competition mode to regain his momentum.
A Look to the Future
As the dust settles from the 2024 Mr. Olympia, all eyes are on the future of the Men’s Open division. With Samson Dauda now holding the title, Hadi Choopan eager to reclaim his top spot, and Derek Lunsford potentially heading into the 2025 Arnold Classic, the bodybuilding landscape is more competitive than ever. Rambod’s insights have only fueled the anticipation, leaving fans eager to see how Lunsford and his fellow competitors will adapt and evolve in the coming months.
One thing is certain: the road to the 2025 Mr. Olympia has already begun, and Derek Lunsford’s next move could set the stage for an epic redemption story.
You can watch Hany Rambod’s full comments on the latest episode of the Culter Cast below:
