Chris Bumstead Retires!
Chris Bumstead, affectionately known as “CBum,” is a titan in the IFBB Classic Physique division—and arguably one of the most iconic figures in modern bodybuilding. Hard to believe he’s calling it a career after an astounding six Olympia titles, but hell, he deserves it! You know what else is hard to believe? That the entire family (Chris, Melissa, Iain, and Courtney) are all retired. As Ron Simmons would say, DAMN.
I just got to meet everyone in passing a few times, mostly while training at West Coast Iron. Needless to say, when any combination of that family was at the gym, you definitely kicked things up a notch!
Anyway, here are a couple photos we have together from over the years:
Melissa Bumstead, Courtney King, Chris Bumstead and I at West Coast Iron. Half of Iain Valliere is in the seated chest press on the right side of the photo. (He’s so damn huge that even half of him looks like a whole person, SMDH)
Ahhhh what a dude that C-Bum is. A Canadian icon, even. Not only is he known for his unmatched physique, but also for his laid-back attitude, iconic mustache, and social media banter. Here’s a look at his legendary career highlights:
1. Six-Time Classic Physique Olympia Champion (2019–2024)
Chris Bumstead has won the Classic Physique Olympia title six times in a row (showoff)! In this division, where the goal is to combine size, symmetry, and aesthetics, CBum has been the ultimate "art project"—you know, like the statue of David but with a protein shake in hand.
2. 2017 Olympia Runner-Up: The Close Call
Before ruling the Classic Physique Olympia stage, CBum came agonizingly close in 2017, finishing second. A heartbreaking runner-up... or a dramatic teaser of the future? Either way, you could say it was the “bulk before the storm.”
3. The 2018 Olympia Saga: The Kidney Fight
In 2018, CBum faced a serious health issue—an autoimmune disorder that impacted his kidneys. Despite being on dialysis, he still competed and finished runner-up! That’s flexing both biceps and kidneys, folks. Chris proved that he's not just jacked on the outside but has the heart (and functioning kidneys) of a true warrior.
4. The Mustache That Launched a Thousand Reps
Is it the posing? Is it the chiseled abs? Or could it be the mustache that elevated CBum to legend status? Somewhere between 2019 and 2020, Bumstead's perfect 70s cop stache became an emblem of his brand. When you’re shredded, you’ve got to have one part of your body that can’t be photoshopped more perfect—and for CBum, that’s the upper lip.
5. Social Media King
While many bodybuilders are serious and stoic, Chris Bumstead turned his social media presence into something more like a fitness sitcom. Whether it’s his training sessions, his sarcastic commentary, or his frequent cries for “more carbs!”, CBum is as much an entertainer as he is a muscle-bound sculpture.
6. Businessman and Influencer
Outside the gym, CBum has leveraged his fame to build a fitness empire. From CBum-branded merch to supplements and collaborations with big names like Gymshark, Chris has proven he’s not just lifting weights, he’s also lifting his bank account.
7. Shutting Down Haters—Politely, of Course
Whether it's critiques of his physique or trash talk from competitors, Bumstead has always handled himself with class. Well, class with just enough sass to let you know he’s having fun at the top.
I think we’re all sad to see this walking, talking, bicep-curling masterpiece of Classic Physique go. He’s the guy who can out-pose your favorite bodybuilder while making you laugh at a meme about “missing leg day.” But one thing’s for sure—CBum’s has absolutely earned the status of ICON.