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The 2023 Mr. Olympia Classic Physique pre-judging saw 35 of the best Classic Physique athletes take to the stage. The bodybuilding world watched in awe as top athletes like Chris Bumstead, Ramon Dino, Urs Kalecinski, Breon Ansley, Terrence Ruffin, and others battled it out on stage for the top spots. While these five names emerged as clear favorites, a former champion surprised fans.

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Earlier, the Instagram page Bisandtris posted a collage comparing the back shots of the probable top four Classic Physique bodybuilders. The image had Chris Bumstead, Ramon Dino, Urs Kalecinski, and Breon Ansley all hitting the back double biceps. As fans gave their verdict in the comments, an underdog emerged as the clear winner.

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The former Mr. Olympia Classic Physique champion impressed

Before Chris Bumstead started dominating the Classic Physique stage, Breon Ansley ruled the division. In fact, the bodybuilder even won the title twice and has defeated Cbum in the past. However, in the last few years, the former champion has fallen behind, losing ground to newcomers like Ramon Dino and Urs Kalecinski. Yet, this year, with the new weight limit rules, Ansley brought an improved physique.

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Despite being 42, Breone Ansley made significant improvements this year. He also took advantage of the weight limit increase that enabled him to add size. Fans noticed the improvements and praised the former champion.

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Fans couldn’t help but notice the improvements

In the image, the oldest Classic Physique competitor showed off his muscle maturity. Fans couldn’t help but praise his incredible muscle maturity and details. “Breon surprised me, it’s truly incredible how this man keeps coming back and keeps battling with the top guys after so many years. Deserves more props, isn’t the guy like 40????” wrote one astonished fan.

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“Breon’s back is something out of this world… Best in the IFBB,” proclaimed another fan.

Others also noticed the density and details in the former champion’s back. “Crazy details on Breon,” wrote one fan. “Breon should be second, tbh,” said another.

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Another fan made a similar comment. “If back is the discussion, Breon wins hands down. Easily,” the fan wrote.

Read More | Mr. Olympia 2023 Classic Physique Pre-Judging Results Are Out And Here Are the 6 Bodybuilders that Made It In the First Callout

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What did you think about the former champion’s back? Do you think he will move up in the rankings this year? Tell us in the comments.

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Sagnik Bagchi

3,368 Articles

Sagnik Bagchi is a Senior Writer at EssentiallySports, covering collegiate and Olympic sports through opinion‑driven storytelling. His volleyball reporting often spotlights program shifts and leadership changes, including Harper Murray’s evolving role and John Cook’s candid retirement reflections at Nebraska. With nearly four years in sports media, Sagnik has contributed across key beats, from the Paris 2024 Newsbreak team to behind‑the‑scenes coverage of the NHL Playoffs. An English Literature postgraduate, Sagnik’s versatility spans bodybuilding, US sports, and Olympic disciplines. As a former Senior Bodybuilding Writer, his work earned recognition from IFBB Pro Greg Doucette. His adaptability and consistency have resulted in a place in EssentiallySports’ Journalistic Excellence Program, where selected writers work with industry mentors to refine their reporting and analytical skills.

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Shivali Nathta

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