The 2024 Classic Physique Olympia stage saw Chris Bumstead claim his sixth and final title, marking the end of an era in the bodybuilding world. As fans processed Bumstead’s retirement, the runner-up, Mike Sommerfeld, delivered a stellar performance that earned him second place, positioning him as a strong contender for the future.
On October 14, 2024, MIke Sommerfeld shared his thoughts on his placing, his unexpected rise to the top, and why he believes Chris Bumstead could have dominated the division for years to come if he hadn’t retired.
Mike Sommerfeld’s Reaction to His Second-Place Finish
Mike Sommerfeld, affectionately known as “Mike the Badass” by fans, was overjoyed yet somewhat shocked by his runner-up finish.
Despite going into the competition with modest expectations, Mike Sommerfeld’s disciplined preparation, under the guidance of his coach Neil, helped him bring one of his best physiques to date.
Reflecting on his performance, Sommerfeld said, “I still cannot believe it. I felt really really comfortable. Then, I was going with the flow. I did everything Neil told me to do and it worked pretty well.”
Mike Sommerfeld had aimed for a top-five finish but found himself standing next to the legendary Chris Bumstead on the Olympia stage.
While many predicted that Chris Bumstead would win, Mike Sommerfeld narrowly missed out on the title, trailing by just three points on the scorecards.
His improvements in both his lower body mass and separation, along with his symmetrical upper body, allowed him to outshine other top contenders such as Urs Kalecinski and Ramon Queiroz.
Related: Chris Bumstead Reveals His Plan To Help Increase Classic Physique Olympia Prize Money in 2025
Chris Bumstead’s Retirement: Sommerfeld’s Take on Cbum’s Legacy
Following Chris Bumstead’s victory, the bodybuilding world was stunned by his announcement to retire from competitive bodybuilding. Bumstead’s exit leaves a significant void in the Classic Physique division, and Mike Sommerfeld is among those who are now eyeing the vacant throne.
In an interview, Mike Sommerfeld praised Bumstead’s dominance, stating that he believed Bumstead could have won ten titles if he wanted to.
“Honestly, he has such a beautiful, great life, beautiful family, great business,” Sommerfeld shared. “He could win 10 more, and I told him, ‘please stop Chris, I don’t want to have the Ronnie Coleman story again.’” Sommerfeld referenced Coleman’s historic eight-title reign in the open division and noted that Bumstead had the potential to establish a similarly untouchable legacy if he chose to continue.
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Related: Chris Bumstead Announces Retirement After Sixth Classic Physique Olympia Win
Processing the Runner-Up Spot: Sommerfeld’s Humility and Gratitude
While Mike Sommerfeld has clearly established himself as a top contender, he admitted that he is still processing the magnitude of his second-place finish.
“Honestly, I had no second to think about what just happened [being the number one contender in Classic Physique]. People asking me, how do you feel? I have no idea. I have no idea how I feel,” Sommerfeld said.
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He went on to express his gratitude for the overwhelming support he received from fans during and after the competition.
“I can feel the support. I was able to hear the crowd. My phone is ringing constantly, and this is everything an athlete really needs. What we are doing, we are doing the same, we are moving weight, and eating chicken, broccoli, and rice, but people texting me like, ‘Hey Mike, you inspired me, you motivated me,’ but basically we are all doing the same,” Sommerfeld explained.
Related: 2024 212 Olympia Final Results: Keone Pearson Triumphs Again
What’s Next for Mike Sommerfeld in Classic Physique?
With Chris Bumstead retired, the Classic Physique division is wide open, and Mike Sommerfeld has emerged as a top contender for the 2025 title. However, he is not alone in his pursuit of the coveted crown.
Other top athletes like Urs Kalecinski, Ramon Queiroz, Breon Ansley, and Wesley Vissers, who won both the 2024 Arnold Classic Ohio and UK events, are all poised to challenge for the throne.
The stakes have been raised even higher by Chris Bumstead’s recent announcement that he plans to increase the prize money for the Classic Physique division at future Mr. Olympia events, using his own earnings to boost the payout.
This gesture adds another layer of excitement and anticipation for fans and athletes alike, as they look forward to Mike Sommerfeld’s next appearance on stage.
Conclusion
Mike Sommerfeld’s runner-up finish at the 2024 Classic Physique Olympia marks a pivotal moment in his career.
As he continues to process his unexpected rise to the top, Sommerfeld is already being recognized as one of the strongest contenders to take Chris Bumstead’s place in the division.
With Bumstead’s retirement and the field wide open, Mike Sommerfeld’s humility, hard work, and relentless drive to improve make him a serious threat for the 2025 title.
Fans are eager to see what the future holds for Sommerfeld as he continues his journey in the world of bodybuilding.