As various prominent names in the bodybuilding sphere begin to map out their plans for the 2023 calendar year, former 1983 Mr. Olympia Samir Bannout spills his thoughts on the current landscape of the sport. For example, in early January 2023, the living legend seemed to appreciate the changes of the International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness (IFBB) Pro League in the Olympia qualification system. In fact, he stated that some of the changes, such as the removal of a previous points-based system, were not enough to be more selective. During a recent media appearance, the icon focused on some of his specific thoughts on the future of a Classic Physique star.
That Jan. 20, 2023, Bannout appeared in an episode of Muscle Maturity podcast. While breaking some of the latest news in the world of bodybuilding, Bannout touches on the plight of one Chris Bumstead. Fresh off a fourth straight Classic Physique Olympia title, where the athlete competed with a partially torn biceps, Bannout believes Bumstead should makes the jump to the Men’s Open division at the upcoming 2023 Arnold Classic (AC). This could be an interesting prospect for one of the game’s current figureheads.
Bannout is obviously aware of the hardships Bumstead will have to overcome to continue his Classic Physique reign. As if that doesn’t stop him from continuing Bumstead still needs to work to shine in 2023 AC in Columbus, OH.
“Speaking of Bumstead, he pulled his biceps muscle, and was in pain,” Bannout said. “In my opinion, Bumstead can compete with [2023] Arnold Classic Tomorrow. He must. Why not? Bumstead: do it.
At the same time, Bannout understood that Bumstead wanted to take time to recover after a serious illness. After all, jumping back into training and ideal competition nutrition might not be the best idea until Bumstead is fully recovered from his health setback.
Such an immediate decision, division change or not, could translate into longer term issues for Bumstead’s overall career if the competitor is not careful. While he stood by his initial Open sentiment for the young athlete, Bannout didn’t take it a step further.
“I think in Bumstead’s case, he had a partial tear,” Bannout said. “It would be wise to pull, it doesn’t matter a little, pull it completely, because it will be better in his career. He knows. He and his doctors know. But yes, I can clearly see something happening with the bicep.
In late September 2022, Bumstead discussed a potential place in the Men’s Open division in the future while speaking at a Muscular Development podcast. However, Bumstead maintains that 2023 is not the right time for a transfer. Due to the current recovery from his biceps tear, and it seems unlikely that Bumstead will go full throttle with any ideas entering the 2023 AC on Mar. 3-5, 2023.
While some of his potential peers in the Open division, such as Nick Walker and Mamdouh “Big Ramy” Elssbiay, prepare for the monumental AC, Bumstead will likely remain on the sidelines for now. Even with a recent lucrative prize money and Bannout’s first proposition in the account, asking an elite competitor to switch divisions while he recovers may not be possible in such a short time. time.
However, Bumstead’s progress in and out of the gym will certainly be something to keep an eye on in the coming months.
Featured image: @cbum on Instagram
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