All the titleholders in the Classic Physique category at Mr. Olympia.
The Mr. Olympia event is the pinnacle of bodybuilding competitions, eagerly anticipated by fans and meticulously prepared for by athletes annually. This contest showcases the epitome of human physique, featuring individuals with maximum muscle mass and incredible definition. The Olympia serves as the ultimate challenge, determining who has dedicated the most effort toward their workout routines and dietary regimes throughout the year to develop, shape, and refine their bodies into perfectly chiseled forms. Here, we will discuss every champion in the history of the Classic Physique Olympia.
Initiated by Joe and Ben Weider in 1965, this event saw Larry Scott clinch victory back-to-back from the start. This legendary competition has crowned icons like Arnold Schwarzenegger and Ronnie Coleman. Presently, Derek Lunsford has emerged as the new champion, triumphing over notable contenders such as Hadi Choopan, the previous titleholder, and Samson Dauda.
While the overall Men’s Open winner often dominates the spotlight, numerous other events also feature with countless athletes vying for the ultimate prize. The Classic Physique division is among these burgeoning categories, especially notable with its five-time champion, Chris Bumstead.
What is the Classic Physique Division?
In 2016, Mr. Olympia introduced the Classic Physique division. This inclusion, governed by specific rules and regulations, made the competition more inclusive, offering more opportunities for participants eager to claim a title. It also garnered more attention for the sport, which is always beneficial.
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Participants in the Classic Physique category focus less on sheer size compared to the Men’s Open division. Therefore, athletes in this category adhere to weight limits based on their height to ensure competitors are not excessively large.
This division emphasizes artistry, where posing plays a crucial role in judging. Classic Physique aims to emulate the “Golden Era” of bodybuilding, showcasing well-balanced, muscular physiques with flawless proportions and excellent conditioning.
Despite being part of the IFBB Pro League for less than ten years, the Classic Physique division has seen multiple champions. The first competition in this class occurred in 2016 in Las Vegas, Nevada, at the Orleans Arena, with Danny Hester emerging as the inaugural IFBB Pro Classic Physique champion.
Below is a list of all the Classic Physique Olympia winners. This list includes repeat champions who have dedicated everything to excel in this esteemed event.
Classic Physique Olympia Titleholders
- Danny Hester – 2016
- Breon Ansley – 2017 & 2018
- Chris Bumstead – 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023
Danny Hester – 2016
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Danny Hester was the inaugural champion of the Classic Physique division at Mr. Olympia, laying the groundwork for future victors. His passion for bodybuilding stemmed from an enthusiasm for individual sports, evolving into a deep love for crafting and shaping his physique. Hester’s numerous competition wins and pioneering role in the Classic Physique division have made him a significant figure in the bodybuilding community, and his devotion to the sport remains unwavering.
Related:Every Winner Of The Arnold Classic Bodybuilding Show
Breon Ansley – 2017 & 2018
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Breon Ansley followed, claiming the next two titles in the Classic Physique division. Having been athletically inclined from a young age, Ansley earned a football scholarship to Iowa State as a defensive end. However, a career-halting injury led him to discover bodybuilding. Competing extensively and consistently finishing in top spots, his consecutive victories established his reputation in the bodybuilding community and proved his ability to compete at the highest level.
Chris Bumstead – 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023
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Chris Bumstead appears unbeatable, securing the last five titles in the Classic Physique category at Mr. Olympia, surpassing some remarkable opponents. Having started weightlifting at a young age, his passion for bodybuilding is evident in his relentless pursuit of substantial gains. Initially guided by professional bodybuilder Iain Valliere, Bumstead now trains under the esteemed coach Hany Rambod, known for mentoring multiple Mr. Olympia winners, ensuring he receives top-notch advice.
Since obtaining his pro card at the age of 21, Bumstead has…
maintained his remarkable performance and undoubtedly remains a standout to monitor in the future. After securing several second-place accolades behind Breon Ansley, he has now ascended to the pinnacle and is poised to sustain his supremacy for the foreseeable future.
Classic Physique Competitors to Monitor
The 2023 Mr. Olympia competition took place in Orlando, Florida, from Nov. 2-5 at the Orange County Convention Center. As beloved veterans and emerging talents strove to achieve greatness, it turned out to be a thrilling spectacle, showcasing exceptional abilities. The 2023 Olympia also introduced us to a few Classic Physique athletes worthy of attention.
Ramon “Dino” Rocha Queiroz
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A rapidly ascending star in the bodybuilding arena, particularly in the classic physique category, is Ramon Rocha Queiroz, also known as Ramon Dino. Securing second place at the 2022 and 2023 Mr. Olympia contests, Ramon is trailing closely behind the reigning champion, Chris Bumstead. These consecutive runner-up positions make many fans confident that he has the potential to eventually unseat the reigning titleholder!
Urs Kalecinski
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Driven and hungry for the championship, Urs has collaborated closely with Chris Bumstead. He achieved third place at the 2022 and 2023 Mr. Olympia contests, right behind Ramon Queiroz and Chris Bumstead, cementing his reputation as a rising star in the Classic Physique Division. Many enthusiasts believe he has the potential to claim the title one day.
Conclusion
Mr. Olympia is an outstanding event filled with remarkable bodybuilding action, showcasing competitors who continuously strive to excel. The Classic Physique division offers a competitive platform that has witnessed repeat victors, reflecting the dedication of these three athletes so far. Only time will tell if one of these champions will maintain their dominance for years to come.
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*Images courtesy of Danny Hester Instagram, Breon Ansley Instagram, and Chris Bumstead Instagram