The 2023 Mr. Olympia is upon us. While the athletes are yet to take to the stage, the bodybuilding world has gathered in Orlando. Earlier, fans went to see all their favorite bodybuilders on the stage at the 2023 Mr. Olympia press conference. Among the crowd of elite bodybuilders was four-time Classic Physique champion Chris Bumstead.

The 28-year-old Canadian bodybuilding legend is looking to defend his title and earn a fifth Sandow trophy in the process. However, this year, the reigning champion has to deal with tough competition and different rules around weight limits. Despite this, the bodybuilding champion calmly explained how he was handling the pressure. What is his secret?

Chris Bumstead seemed unphased and focused!

Terrick El Guindy caught up with the four-time champion and his coach after the press conference. The Olympia TV YouTube Channel posted the video of El Guindy asking the Canadian how he feels about defending his title. While asking, even the interviewer pointed out how ‘CBum’ exuded an aura of calmness despite the immense pressure of competing.

Chris Bumstead said he was ready to defend his title for the fifth time. The 28-year-old seemed confident and “focused” because he had left no stone unturned during prep.

“I’ve done this before many times,” he said. Hence, instead of feeling tense, ‘CBum’ is “ready to slow it down and enjoy every single moment, meeting, shaking hands, smiling and enjoying it, rather than being too intense and just waiting for that stressful last moment. Just enjoying the whole process when you get on stage… Have fun with it.”

Last year, despite being confident, the defending champion nearly broke under immense mental pressure. So this year, he has a different approach. However, the King of Classic Physique will face an even tougher challenge this year.

The weight limits have been changed this year

One of the key differences between the Classic Physique and the open division is the existence of a weight limit. While weight restrictions were simpler, this year, the rule was expanded to better accommodate bodybuilders of shorter stature. The IFBB announced this year, that Classic Physique competitors would get a weight limit increase according to their height.

According to the new rules, taller bodybuilders will get the least increase in weight limit. Meanwhile, shorter bodybuilders could put on more extra weight than their taller counterparts. The IFBB explained that this was implemented to give shorter bodybuilders a better chance against taller competitors. After this rule change, many fans agree that Bumstead will face stiff competition from bodybuilders like Terrence Ruffin, Breon Ansley, and more.

What do you feel about his year’s Classic Physique division? Do you think Bumstead will retain his title? Tell us in the comments.

Read More: Fans Declare Chris Bumstead as Winner Despite 2 Weeks to Go for Mr Olympia 2023