#17: The king of Classic Physique: All hail CBum

In the modern landscape of bodybuilding, Chris Bumstead, better known as CBum, stands not only as the undisputed king of Classic Physique but also as a cultural icon whose influence stretches far beyond the competition stage. From his early days as a YouTube content creator to becoming a five-time Mr. Olympia Classic Physique champion, Bumstead’s journey is one of discipline, vulnerability, and long-term vision.

After his tearjerking retirement from the scenes in 2024, the time is right to reflect on the incredible path that has brought him to the summit of bodybuilding—and to look ahead at where he’s headed next.

Early Life: The Foundation of a Champion

Born on February 2, 1995, in Ottawa, Canada, Chris Bumstead began weight training as a teenager. Guided by genetics and a relentless work ethic, he developed a love for sculpting the human body. Much of his early coaching came from his sister’s boyfriend and now brother-in-law, Iain Valliere, an IFBB Pro bodybuilder who would become one of the most critical figures in Chris’s early development.

Though he was involved in athletics throughout high school, it was bodybuilding that truly captivated him. By the age of 19, he was already stepping on stage, and in 2016, he earned his IFBB Pro card at the CBBF Bodybuilding Nationals, competing in the Classic Physique division—a category that was just beginning to rise.

YouTube and the CBum Persona

Long before the world came to know him as a multi-time Olympia champ, CBum was building a personal brand through YouTube. His channel started with simple workout vlogs, training splits, meal preps, and physique updates.

What set Chris apart from other influencers was his transparency. He didn’t just show the highlights—he showed the breakdowns, the prep struggles, the mental health challenges, and the quiet grind behind the scenes. Combined with his calm demeanour and dry wit, this authenticity resonated with millions.

As of June 2025, his channel has surpassed 3.5 million subscribers, and his Instagram account boasts over 18 million followers. He is not just a bodybuilder—he’s a global figure in the fitness and wellness community.

 

 

Olympia Career: The Classic Physique Dynasty

 

Chris made his Olympia debut in 2017, finishing second to Breon Ansley. At just 22 years old, he had the potential, but lacked the polish. Over the next two years, he transformed his physique and stage presence. In 2019, he returned to the Olympia and defeated Ansley to become the new Classic Physique champion.

He has held that title ever since:

• 2019 – 1st Place
• 2020 – 1st Place
• 2021 – 1st Place
• 2022 – 1st Place
• 2023 – 1st Place
• 2024 - 1st Place

 

CBum did not compete at Arnold Classic events during these years, focusing exclusively on Olympia. His presence has become synonymous with the Classic division itself—setting a standard that few believe can be matched.

After years of speculations and to the delight of his many fans, he’s decided to compete in the Opening division as a farewell gift to his fans and test out how he would place in the top division against the big dogs. So, at the Prague Pro, after only few weeks of prep with the legendary coach Haney Rambod, he was able to battle head-to-head with some of the hottest names in bodybuilding and eventually losing the first spot to Martin “The Martian” Fitzwater.

Naturally fans were ecstatic with some even arguing that Chris deserved to win. Results aside, the most remarkable aspect of this endeavour was the amount of quality muscle he was able pack on his frame without the weight limit of Classic Physique, sparking rumours about a possible category switch quickly put down by Chris himself.

His loyal fandom had to eventually accept and respect his decision to put his health and family life first, which only sparked a further wave of love and admiration towards him.

You can track Olympia updates at www.mrolympia.com.

 

 

Health Battles and Mental Resilience

 

CBum’s story becomes even more compelling when you consider what he’s overcome. In 2019, he was diagnosed with IgA Nephropathy (IgAN)—a chronic autoimmune disease that affects kidney function. It forced him to rethink his approach to prep, hydration, supplementation, and overall health management.

Even more powerful has been his candid discussion of mental health. Chris has spoken openly about anxiety, burnout, and the emotional toll of extreme discipline. He’s used his platform to encourage others in the fitness world to prioritize mental resilience alongside physical strength.

One of his most-watched videos, “Mental Health and Bodybuilding: My Struggles,” has been praised for helping to break down toxic stigmas in the industry. It’s clear that for CBum, winning isn’t just about medals—it’s about leading with vulnerability and setting an example.

 

 

Entrepreneurial Empire: Raw Nutrition & BUM Energy

 

Chris has used his Olympia success as a launchpad for building an empire outside of competition. In 2020, he co-founded Raw Nutrition with Matt Jansen and Dr. Domenic Iacovone. The brand has quickly become one of the leading supplement companies in the United States and internationally.

His CBum Series—including pre-workouts, proteins, creatine, and hydration formulas—has become a top seller on platforms like Amazon and bodybuilding.com. The clean branding, effective formulas, and CBum’s own credibility have made Raw a major player in the supplement market.

In 2023, he launched BUM Energy, a functional energy drink aimed at the fitness and lifestyle space. With limited sugar, clean ingredients, and a growing network of distribution in both North America and Europe, BUM Energy is fast becoming a staple among gym-goers and young professionals alike.

Both brands reinforce what CBum has always preached: discipline meets quality.

 

 

Personal Life and Public Image

 

Chris is currently engaged to Courtney King, a former Bikini Olympia champion and fitness model. The couple is known for their balanced, grounded lifestyle and often share insights on training, relationships, and wellness. Courtney has played a central role in helping Chris manage the psychological demands of elite bodybuilding.

Despite his fame, Chris maintains a remarkably humble public image. He rarely indulges in ego-driven hype and consistently credits his team, fans, and family for his success. This groundedness is one of the reasons his fanbase is not only massive but fiercely loyal.

It seems as he’s also turning into the most wholesome dad to his newborn baby, attracting an entire new generation of followers.

 

 

 

What Comes Next?

 

CBum’s future is brighter than ever:

 

1. Expansion of Raw Nutrition

With multiple new product lines, international distribution deals, and athlete sponsorships, Raw is positioned to rival brands like Optimum Nutrition and Ghost.

 

2. Mainstream Growth of BUM Energy

Currently launching in more commercial retailers, BUM Energy is tapping into the wellness drink market—a multi-billion-dollar industry.

 

3. More Media Projects

Chris has teased upcoming long-form documentary content, potential books, and an expanded podcast series. These efforts are designed to share deeper insights into his life, philosophy, and entrepreneurial journey.

 

4. Mentorship & Coaching

Post-retirement, CBum has expressed interest in mentoring up-and-coming Classic Physique athletes. With Iain Valliere now focused on coaching full-time, the duo may build a powerhouse coaching team.

Final Thoughts: The CBum Legacy

Chris Bumstead has already secured his place in bodybuilding history—not just as a six-time Classic Physique champion, but as the man who redefined what it means to be a modern physique icon. He’s a rare combination of aesthetics, humility, business acumen, and emotional intelligence.

He brought back the Golden Era ideals in a modern form—tight waist, vacuum pose, beautiful lines—but more than that, he brought humanity back into bodybuilding.

As he conquered his final Olympia in 2024, fans around the world will be watching not just for whatever lies ahead of his already bright future, but to celebrate a legacy that has already changed the sport forever.

Chris Bumstead is living proof that a genuine and kind nature, accompanied by a fierce desire and dedication are the key to success. Hard work is important, but so is passion and knowledge and, some of us, really have it all.