Bigger than bodybuilding: Chris Bumstead, five-time Classic Physique Mr. Olympia and the world’s most famous competitive bodybuilder, has announced a renewed partnership with and part ownership stake of market-leading activewear brand Gymshark.
- Catch Up: Founded in 2012, UK-based Gymshark is one of the market leaders in commercial fitness apparel. According to FashionUnited UK, the company drove roughly $727 million in revenue in 2023.
“This is as seismic as Michael Jordan rejoining the Chicago Bulls,” the brand told BarBend via email. “This signing follows the launch of our brand platform We Do Gym after a three-year hiatus between Gymshark and Mr. Bumstead.”
Chris Bumstead x Gymshark
Bumstead initially signed on as a Gymshark athlete back in 2018, just one year prior to his first victory at the biggest competition in bodybuilding. Since then, Bumstead has ballooned into one of the biggest fitness celebrities in the world, boasting nearly 25 million followers on Instagram alone.
During Bumstead’s announcement on Sep. 9, 2024, he shared his excitement to return to the front of the Gymshark pack after spending some years defining his own brand.
- Bumstead is on the ownership team at RAW Nutrition, which sells nutritional supplements such as pre-workout and protein powder. His gym, RAW Athletic Club, opened its doors on May 27, 2024.
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Bumstead’s full statement is as follows:
“At this stage of my career, I’ve been fortunate enough to have been offered some very exciting opportunities, but I knew if I was going to be involved in a business again, it had to be with the right people and for the right reasons.
When Gymshark talked me through their vision to become the brand that brings the gym to the world, I knew that If I was going to partner with anyone, it had to be them.
So, I’m happy to say I’m now a part owner of Gymshark. I’m really excited for the future of the brand and to get to work.
Gymthark forever.”
Industry voices joined in congratulating Bumstead on the move. 212 Olympia winner Flex Lewis said, “Congratulations champ!” Seven-time Mr. Olympia Phil Heath added: “Well deserved. See ya soon.”
Will Chris Bumstead Retire After the 2024 Olympia?
Brand sponsorships are familiar territory for physique athletes. After more than half a decade at the top of his game, Bumstead’s stake in Gymshark may indicate that he’s ready to make a career pivot.
- Bumstead has publicly signaled he may retire from competitive bodybuilding after his 30th birthday.
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Bumstead, 29, is hard at work prepping for the 2024 Olympia, which runs in Las Vegas, NV, from Oct. 10 to 13. He’ll celebrate his 30th birthday shortly after in Feb. 2025.
Will Bumstead win his sixth consecutive title, cement his legacy in the sport, and pivot from bodybuilding to business magnate? Only time will tell.
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Featured Image: Gymshark
