Chris Bumstead said goodbye to competitive bodybuilding in 2024 after winning his sixth and final title. But a video shared by Men's Active magazine on Instagram has sparked speculation about his return to the Olympia stage.

The Instagram page, Men's Active Mag, wrote that Bumstead had reached a new weight of 350 lbs and was ready to return to competitive bodybuilding.

“In March 2026, Chris Bumstead posted a physique update that sent the bodybuilding community into immediate speculation — observers noted muscle hardness and separation visible at a reported bodyweight of 350 lbs.”

Bumstead's final competitive appearance was at the 2024 Prague Pro, where he made his debut in the Men's Open category. He finished second behind Men's Open veteran Martin Fitzwater and described it as the most fun he had ever experienced onstage.

And then for two years there was silence, but in March this year, rumors of his return ignited when he posted a physique update. Bumstead spent his retirement trying to become a hybrid athlete and worked on improving his strength, mobility, power, speed, and overall.

“I want to be able to run sideways and stop and go forward and then jump, deadlift, look good, bench press, throw a ball. Just be strong and powerful and feel good,” he said.

The six-time Mr. Olympia has been battling with IgA Nephropathy, an autoimmune kidney disease that creates complications. The condition demands him to be properly hydrated, nourished, and maintain overall health, something that is hard to manage in competitive bodybuilding.

For years, Bumstead balanced this illness and career and still managed to remain at the top of the classic division. He finally hung up his boots at 29, deciding to focus on his family and his supplement brand. 

But now 31 years old, is Bumstead considering a comeback? For now, there has been no official announcement by him or any of his team members. Physique updates are not a confirmation of contest plans, and it remains a speculation. Nevertheless, it still got people talking.

Fan Reaction to Chris Bumstead’s Potential Return

There were several mixed reactions to the news of his potential return. While people would love nothing more, they are convinced that it is not a possibility. But just looking at his new physique, his fans were reminded of Bumstead in his prime.

One die-hard Cbum fan wrote, 'This guy right here will always be the champ.... None of them have reached their feet yet.'

Bumstead's monstrous physique led to another comment, 'Just go up there and pick up the trophy.'

Another fan wrote, 'Jesus, 350 or not, the man will just not give it up.'

One user tried to clear up the speculation by writing, 'In this video, he was in prep for Prague Pro, he is not coming back.'

Another one wrote, 'Does Chris know he's coming back?'

But the compliments for his physique kept coming, one user wrote, 'Wow dude yur a F****** animal bro .. love watching u buddy.'

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Written by

Ruwa Javed

Edited by

Zaid Quraishi