Lee Haney believes that there is room to improve the division moving forward.
The days after each Olympia always brings interesting perspectives from those who are tuned into the bodybuilding world. This year is no different as bodybuilding legend Lee Haney offered some intriguing thoughts about the Men’s Open division following the 2025 Olympia.
Derek Lunsford was crowned champion for the second time, and becoming the second bodybuilder ever to lose the title and regain it — joining Jay Cutler. He edged out Hadi Choopan, who finished as the runner-up once again, and third-place Andrew Jacked. After victories at the Arnold Classic and Pittsburgh Pro, Lunsford set out to win the self-proclaimed “Triple Crown” in bodybuilding.
There are requirements and weight restrictions in other divisions in bodybuilding. Haney broke down the event and why he believes there should be new breakthroughs in Men’s Open.
Lee Haney Calls for Multiple Divisions
The top four in the Olympia, including former champion Samson Dauda, had different shapes and heights. Because of this Lee Haney believes there should be two separate divisions in Men’s Open.
“Reason: physiques like Samson, Andrew, and Tabani, exhibits more balance due to their height. Where as Derek, Hadi, and Nick appears to carry more mass per lb.”
Haney has spoken in the past about overall symmetry and why he believes it is the most important aspect of building a physique. This is where heights comes into play, as taller competitors bring more balance. The competitors on the shorter side, like Lunsford and Choopan, carry more mass.
Haney is tied with Ronnie Coleman for the most Olympia wins ever. From 1984-91, Haney was unbeatable in Men’s Open. He was able to defeat other all-time greats such as Frank Zane, Sergio Oliva, and Lee Labrada. Now, he continues to follow the sport closely and forms his own opinions on the new era of physiques.
The IFBB Pro League continues to make changes each year to the sport in order to make it even better. It would add another dynamic to the division and to the sport as a whole. This is not an idea that is on the horizon but Haney believes that it could improve standards.
“The results are confusing to say the least along with unparalleled appearances of the results. There’s always room for the emergence of new standards👌🏽”
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
