The rumors of reigning Classic Physique champion Chris Bumstead competing in the open division were ripe in 2022 and 2023. Almost everyone wanted to know if Bumstead would move up another weight class and compete with the mass monsters. Many speculated if CBum could win against heavier bodybuilders. However, bodybuilding icon Kevin Levrone has no doubts.

Chris Bumstead laid the rumors to rest in 2023, saying he would focus on his division for now. However, people are still curious about how it would turn out. One such curious soul, who goes by The Cal on Instagram, asked the ‘Uncrowned King’ Kevin Levrone about Cbum’s chances in the open division. The multiple-time Mr. Olympia runner-up chose Bumstead without a hint of hesitation.

“I will pick him number one,” said Levrone while signing some posters. When Cal asked if Bumstead would need to put on more size, Levrone said, “Doesn’t matter. He don’t need no more size, in my opinion.” The Arnold Classic winner also explained why he was confident in his answer. “I mean, the guy’s probably the most mainstream bodybuilder that ever existed,” he said.

The 59-year-old also mentioned that Bumstead hasn’t even starred in a film and has attracted millions to the sport. In fact, CBum has nearly as many followers on social media as Arnold Schwarzenegger. However, with his statement, the Uncrowned King hinted that Olympia might prefer a bodybuilder who brings attention to the sport over raw talent.

Many fans also picked up on the hint. However, Chris Bumstead has stayed away from competing in the open division due to health reasons. The King of Classic Physique said he’d have to put on weight and take high doses of PEDs, which may be a detriment to his long-term health. However, the reigning champion currently has his hands full in his division.

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Chris Bumstead must deal with the modern-day Lou Ferrigno

While everyone saw Brazilian bodybuilder Ramon Dino as Bumstead’s biggest challenge, everything changed at the Arnold Classic 2024. After placing seventh at the Classic Physique Olympia, Wesley Vissers surged to snatch the Arnold Classic Physique title from Dino. In a massive upset victory, the Dutch Oak set himself up as Bumstead’s next challenger.

Vissers even got a compliment from Arnold Schwarzenegger, who compared him to 70s bodybuilding icon Lou Ferrigno. Ferrigno was Arnie’s biggest rival in the mid-70s. The Austrian Oak defeated Ferrigno to win his 6th Mr. Olympia. Now Vissers will also challenge Chris Bumstead, who is gunning for his 6th Classic Physique Olympia title.

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While Kevin Levrone may have confidence in Chris Bumstead winning in the open division, he’ll have to defeat Vissers first. Do you share Levrone’s confidence in CBum? Tell us in the comments.