Mike Sommerfeld On Chris Bumstead: “He Could Win 10 More” Olympias If He Didn’t Retire

Mike Sommerfeld Chris Bumstead 2024 Olympia
Image via Instagram @mikethebadass

With the Classic Physique Olympia title now wide open, Mike Sommerfeld is vying to be the next champion… but also believes that Chris Bumstead could have remained on top for 10 more years

One of the biggest standout moments of the 2024 Olympia weekend was the rise of Classic Physique competitor Mike Sommerfeld, who surpassed many fan favorites that were expected to land in the top 3. Sommerfeld’s physique knocked it out of the park – earning him second behind Chris Bumstead’s sixth Classic Physique Olympia victory. Reflecting on his experience and the future of the division, Mike Sommerfeld had much to say about his performance and reacted to Bumstead’s exit from the sport.

With Chris Bumstead now retired from bodybuilding and Mike Sommerfeld’s second place finish – all eyes will be on Sommerfeld to see if he can continue improving and make claim for the Olympia throne in 2025. That’s certainly on Sommerfeld’s mind as well – but he also has a deep respect for Bumstead, his impact on the sport, and the sheer presence of his unstoppable physique.

Chris Bumstead’s Legacy and Sommerfeld’s Praise

Chris Bumstead’s retirement has left a void in the Classic Physique division, but his impact on the sport is undeniable. As Sommerfeld reflected on Bumstead’s career, he suggested that the Canadian could have extended his dominance for several more years.

“Honestly, he has such a beautiful great life, beautiful family, great business,” Sommerfeld said. “He could win 10 more, and I told him, ‘please stop, Chris, I don’t want to have the Ronnie Coleman story again.’”

Mike Sommerfeld’s reference to eight-time Mr. Olympia Ronnie Coleman highlights the intense pressure and physical toll that long-term reigns can take on athletes. While Sommerfeld respects Bumstead’s choice to retire, he acknowledges the remarkable achievements that Bumstead could have continued to rack up if he chose to stay on the competitive stage.

A Close Battle for the Top Spot

In a division where aesthetics, symmetry, and mass are critical, Mike Sommerfeld delivered a performance that pushed Bumstead to the limit. His second-place finish was a surprise to many, as he managed to trail the reigning champion by a mere three points on the judges’ scorecards.

He impressed with noticeable improvements, particularly in the size and separation of his lower body, while maintaining a balanced upper physique. His efforts gave him the edge over other formidable competitors like Urs Kalecinski and Ramon Queiroz.

“I still cannot believe it,” Sommerfeld expressed, recounting the adrenaline-filled contest. “I felt really, really comfortable. Then, I was going with the flow. I did everything Neil [Hill, his coach] told me to do, and it worked pretty well.” Despite facing one of the most celebrated bodybuilders in history, Sommerfeld’s relaxed mindset played a pivotal role in his success.

Entering with Modest Expectations

Unlike some of his peers, Mike Sommerfeld did not enter the 2024 Mr. Olympia with grand ambitions. Instead, he approached the competition with a humble mindset, focusing more on enjoying the journey than fixating on the outcome.

“Yeah, that was the expectation [top five]. I mean, I had no real expectations because I always say don’t focus too much on the icing and forget the cake. I’ve had a great journey. I spent every second with my wife through the prep,” Sommerfeld explained.

His grounded approach allowed him to remain focused and composed during the competition, which paid off as he outperformed expectations and nearly dethroned Bumstead. With the reigning champion stepping down, Sommerfeld now finds himself as the top contender heading into the 2025 season—a position he did not anticipate but is eager to embrace.

A Humble Reaction to a Career-Changing Moment

Despite his newfound status as the leading contender in the Classic Physique division, Mike Sommerfeld admits that the reality of his second-place finish is still sinking in. He expressed gratitude to his fans and the bodybuilding community for their overwhelming support during this pivotal moment in his career.

“Honestly, I had no second to think about what just happened [being the number one contender in Classic Physique]. People asking me, how do you feel? I have no idea. I have no idea how I feel,” he shared.

“I can feel the support. I was able to hear the crowd. My phone is ringing constantly, and this is everything an athlete really needs.”

Mike Sommerfeld’s connection to his fans is evident, as he continues to draw motivation from their messages and encouragement. “What we are doing, we are doing the same, we are moving weight, and eating chicken, broccoli, and rice, but people texting me like, ‘hey Mike, you inspired me, you motivated me,’ but basically we are all doing the same,” he added.

The Road Ahead for Classic Physique

With Chris Bumstead officially out of the picture, the Classic Physique landscape is set for a major shake-up in the coming year. Mike Sommerfeld, alongside other top contenders such as Urs Kalecinski, Ramon Queiroz, Breon Ansley, and Wesley Vissers—who captured victories at the 2024 Arnold Classic Ohio and UK events—will vie for supremacy in the next era of Classic Physique.

The stakes have never been higher, as the division prepares for a significant change in leadership. Adding to the excitement, Bumstead recently announced plans to increase the prize money for the Classic Physique division at the Mr. Olympia, using funds from his own earnings. This gesture underscores Bumstead’s dedication to growing the sport even as he steps away from competition, leaving a lasting impact on the athletes who will follow in his footsteps.

For Sommerfeld, the upcoming season represents both a challenge and an opportunity to solidify his place as the new face of the Classic Physique division. With a strong showing in 2024 and the momentum of a runner-up finish, all eyes are now on his next move.

A New Chapter Begins

As Chris Bumstead retires, taking his six titles into the annals of Classic Physique history, the question of who will become the division’s next leader is more relevant than ever. Mike Sommerfeld’s rise to the number one contender spot suggests that he could be the athlete to usher in this new era. With the spotlight on him, Sommerfeld will need to bring his best in 2025 to continue building on his recent success. Fans and fellow competitors alike will be watching closely as a new chapter in Classic Physique unfolds.

Mike Sommerfeld’s respectful acknowledgment of Bumstead’s legacy, combined with his humble approach to his own achievements, makes for a compelling storyline as bodybuilding enthusiasts anticipate the next evolution of the sport.

Derek Dufour
Derek Dufour has been managing all digital operations on the Generation Iron Network for over six years. He currently manages a team of editors, writers, and designers to provide up-to-date content across the GI Network.