Chris Bumstead is the reigning Mr. Olympia Classic Physique champion. The Canadian has won the title thrice in a row, and on Thursday, he’ll try to win for the fourth time. Because of his dominant performance and physical stature, many have asked Bumstead one question. Why doesn’t the Classic Physique champ compete in the men’s open division despite his monstrous build?

During a recent interview with Muscular Development Magazine, Chris answered the question. The reigning champion explained why he decided not to move up a weight class.

Chris Bumstead has concerns regarding men’s open bodybuilding

In September, Muscular Development Magazine did an exclusive interview with Bumstead. The interview premiered on their official YouTube channel. During the interview, Chris gave his opinion on the men’s open division. “Bodybuilding (men’s open division) is too difficult, too big, too freaky, and takes too much risk,” said Chris. He also said, “Classic (Physique) floats in the middle,”

Chris acknowledged Classic Physique isn’t risk-free. However, he also said the risk was lower. “It’s a little more healthy for your body to not be 300 pounds,” said the three-time winner. However, health isn’t the only reason Bumstead doesn’t want to move up a weight class. The defending champion also thinks Classic Physique is “more appealing,”

The Canadian bodybuilder also explained Classic Physique is like an art form because it focuses more on posing and aesthetics. With his statement, Chirs mirrored Arnold Schwarzenegger. Arnold was among the inspirations for creating the Classic Physique division, as the icon also thought of bodybuilding as an art form. To Arnie, bodybuilders are like sculptors.

READ MORE: “Make Sure U Keep the Moustache”: Bodybuilding World Demands Chris Bumstead’s Iconic Winning Look, Says Ahead of Mr. Olympia 2022

However, the three-time champion also thinks that men’s open bodybuilding will continue to be the face of Mr. Olympia. While Chris might be right, Classic Physique keeps getting more popular among fans.

The unstoppable momentum of the Classic Physique division

During the same interview, the interviewer, Ron Harris, talked about the division’s growth. Ron said he thought Classic Physique’s momentum would slow down. However, after its introduction in 2016, the division has kept growing. Ron said everyone he meets under 30 is only interested in Bumstead’s division.

“They don’t talk about men’s physique, (men’s) open, nothing, ist’s just classic,” said Ron. A quick browse through social media proves Ron’s point. 

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What’s your take on CBum’s opinion? Do you agree with him?