In a surprising twist, reigning Mr. Olympia Derek Lunsford placed third at the 2024 Mr. Olympia on Oct. 12, 2024.
- Heading into the weekend, Lunsford was considered a conservative favorite to repeat his historic victory in 2023.
- Last year, Lunsford became the first man in history to win both the Mr. Olympia and 212 divisions.
When Lunsford’s name was called, fans in the Resorts World Theater audibly gasped. In character, Lunsford accepted his bronze medal with humility and composure. Second place was claimed by Hadi Choopan; Samson Dauda walked away with his first Sandow.
Derek Lunsford Gets 3rd at 2024 Mr. Olympia
Lunsford’s one-and-done was a surprise, but commentator and seven-time Mr. Olympia winner Phil Heath offered some real-time explanations for his placement.
- “Let’s work on those shoulders, hamstrings, and upper chest,” Heath said. He remarked that Lunsford may have too much back development at the expense of other muscles.
If Lunsford can smooth out his rough edges and bring back the conditioning that supported his win in 2023, another Olympia title is surely on the table. Lunsford’s backpedal reinforces a mounting trend in the Men’s Open division: No dynastic ruler.
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Since Heath’s last win in 2017, only Mamdouh “Big Ramy” Elssbiay has been able to clinch more than one win at bodybuilding’s biggest show. Dauda deserved his victory this year, but one thing is clear: the competitive climate in Open bodybuilding is hotter than ever.
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