Chris Bumstead cemented his legacy as the best Classic Physique bodybuilder after winning his fourth consecutive title at the 2022 Mr. Olympia. Fans and experts unanimously agreed that Bumstead had improved every aspect of his physique compared to 2021. From superior conditioning to more muscle mass, Bumstead lived up to the hype. However, no one knew the Canadian bodybuilder made history while injured.

The night before the pre-judging, the bodybuilding icon felt pain in his bicep. Later, the area became swollen, and Bumstead discovered he had torn his bicep muscle. However, the defending champion pushed through. Bumstead narrated the incident in an Instagram video.

Chris Bumstead narrates the story of his injury

In the video, Bumstead explained how stressful it was to find out about the injury in the middle of the competition. “I was like f***! Just try not to think about this right now.” Bumstead told himself as pre-judging was just around the corner. Despite not being too painful, the injury stressed out the bodybuilding icon. Bumstead thought everyone would say, “Why does his arm not look great?”

The Canadian also admitted to crying in the bathroom before the finals. However, the Classic Physique champion focused on the contest instead of his injury. Bumstead’s coach, Hani Rambod, also reassured and told him to smile on stage. Despite facing stiff competition, Bumstead won his fourth Mr. Olympia title.

The bodybuilding world praises the king of Classic Physique

Famous YouTuber and former bodybuilder Greg Doucette praised Bumstead for discussing his mental struggle. He commented on the post, “Almost better then Chris physique is the fact he is sharing his exact mindset and how he truly feels in dealing with everything. Who else gives us this kind of insight? What an amazing video. Please do more of these.” 

Others praised Bumstead for winning the contest with an injury. “And still pulled the 4th W! Motivating,” wrote a fan. “Imagine winning an Olympia with a torn bicep. Next year everyone stand by he’s coming for 5!” another fan commented. “Tore it holding up all those medals,” joked one fan.

Bumstead’s fiance wrote, “this is why we love you so much.” Others admired the champion for conquering adversity. “Way to push through it though, d***,” one user commented. “Way to battle the adversity, Chris,” commented another. Fellow Classic Physique athlete Tyler Johnson said, “I had a perfect prep and you still beat my a** with a torn bicep. Next year I am going to tear both my biceps too. I can catch up to you.”

Fans also hope Bumstead will make a quick recovery. “Real champ! Wishing you a speedy recovery,” wrote a fan. Another echoed the same sentiment. “Speedy recovery,” wrote the user.

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Does Chris Bumstead competing with an injury make his win more impressive? Let us know what you think.