In a moment that sent shockwaves through the bodybuilding world, Sam Sulek—the rising star of Classic Physique—has officially joined forces with Chris Bumstead and David Laid for a brutal back workout, marking one of the most anticipated collaborations in recent fitness history.
Filmed on July 21, 2025, the session wasn’t just about lifting weights—it was a passing of the torch, a brand evolution, and a clear signal that Sulek is ready to step into the spotlight.
And he did it all while dropping two major announcements:
- ✅ He’s signed with Gymshark as a new elite ambassador
- ✅ He’s targeting the 2026 Arnold Classic as his pro debut
With Chris Bumstead retired from competition and Classic Physique in transition, the stage is set for a new era—and Sam Sulek is positioning himself as its face.
🌟 The Rise of Sam Sulek: From Amateur Sensation to Pro Contender
At just 23 years old, Sam Sulek has already lived out the dream of countless natural bodybuilders.
- January 2025: Made his amateur debut at the NPC Legends Classic—and won overall gold in Classic Physique.
- March 2025: Followed it up with a first-place finish at the Arnold Amateur, earning his IFBB Pro Card.
- Now: Training alongside legends, signed to a global fitness brand, and planning his pro debut at the 2026 Arnold Classic.
Sulek’s rapid ascent has been fueled by impressive genetics, disciplined training, and a massive social media following—but it’s his work ethic and humility that have won over fans and icons alike.
Now, with Cbum stepping back from competition, Sulek isn’t just another name on the roster.
He’s the next big thing.
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💪 The Ultimate Back Workout: Sulek, Bumstead & Laid Go Head-to-Head
The trio came together for a high-volume, high-intensity back session designed to build mass, improve thickness, and test limits. Here’s how they crushed it:
🔹 1. Lat Pulldown (Underhand + Overhand Grip)
Bumstead kicked things off with a mechanical drop set:
- Wide-grip overhand pulldown: 4-second negative, controlled reps
- Medium-grip underhand pulldown: Hammer out the last reps
“We’re going to do a mechanical drop set… Why would you leave that in the tank?” — Chris Bumstead
This technique maximizes time under tension and muscle fatigue, ideal for hypertrophy.
🔹 2. Plate-Loaded Iso Row Machine
A favorite for building mid-back thickness, this machine allows for strict form and heavy loading. Sulek used it to focus on mind-muscle connection, emphasizing squeeze and contraction.
He revealed that 80% of his current training is straight sets—a shift from his earlier reliance on drop sets.
“I think I got my drop sets out of my system. Now, I’m like 80% straight sets.” — Sam Sulek
Bumstead agreed:
“You don’t always use a tool, but it’s a useful tool.”
🔹 3. Tri-Set Finisher: The Ultimate Back Pump
The final three exercises were performed as a brutal tri-set with minimal rest:
- Straight-Arm Rope Pulldowns – For lats and sweep
- Chest-Supported Dumbbell Rows – For mid-back thickness
- Seated Cable Rows – For overall density and contraction
This superset-style finisher is designed to maximize pump, induce metabolic stress, and push muscle growth—a staple in elite bodybuilding prep.
🔹 Bonus: Arm Wrestling Showdown
Between sets, the trio didn’t just lift—they arm wrestled.
Yes, you read that right.
Sulek, Laid, and Bumstead faced off in a test of pure strength, adding a fun, competitive edge to the session. It was a reminder that behind the supplements, the posing, and the stage lights—this sport is still about raw power and brotherhood.
🧠 Sulek’s Training Philosophy: Smarter, Not Just Harder
One of the most revealing moments came when Sulek discussed injury management—a critical topic for young athletes pushing their limits.
“There’s two things that happen when somebody has a tweak… They either work through it and ruin their shoulder, or they stop lifting altogether.”
Sulek emphasized listening to your body without being weak—a balanced approach that separates sustainable champions from short-lived sensations.
His off-season focus?
- Building structural strength
- Improving joint health
- Adding mass without sacrificing symmetry
📢 The Big Announcement: “The Plan Is to Go to the Arnold in March”
After the workout, Sulek confirmed what fans have been speculating:
“The plan is to go to the Arnold in March.”
Yes—the 2026 Arnold Classic could be his first professional show.
When Bumstead asked, “That’s the show you’re going to do? Your first pro show?” Sulek responded with confidence:
“If you have an invite, you may as well do the big one.”
While he stopped short of guaranteeing a full-stage appearance (“Anything else… there’s no possible guarantee”), the message was clear:
He’s aiming for the biggest stage in Classic Physique.
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And if he brings the package he’s been building, he won’t just compete—he could win.
🧥 Gymshark Deal: Sulek Joins the Elite Ranks
The collaboration wasn’t just about training—it was also a brand launch.
During the session, Chris Bumstead revealed that Sam Sulek has officially signed with Gymshark as a new elite fitness ambassador.
This puts Sulek in the same league as:
- David Laid
- Chris Bumstead
- Dana Linn Bailey
- Steph Davis
But it’s not just a sponsorship. Bumstead also revealed he’s now a part-owner of Gymshark, signaling a new chapter in his post-Olympia career.
For Sulek, this deal is validation—proof that he’s not just a social media star, but a legitimate force in the sport.
🔮 What’s Next? The 2026 Arnold Classic and Beyond
If Sulek follows through on his plan, the 2026 Arnold Classic will be one of the most anticipated debuts in recent memory.
He’ll face off against:
- Mike Sommerfeld – 2025 Arnold Classic winner
- Tristán Núñez – Rising star
- Possibly even a returning Breon Ansley
To win, Sulek will need to:
- Add more back width and detail
- Tighten his waist and conditioning
- Refine his posing and stage presence
But if his current trajectory holds?
The crown could be his.
🔥 Final Thoughts: A New Era in Classic Physique
With Chris Bumstead retired, Mike Sommerfeld rising, and Sam Sulek entering the fray, the Classic Physique division is at a crossroads.
And Sulek’s Gymshark signing, training with legends, and Arnold Classic ambition suggest one thing:
The next generation has arrived.
He’s not just chasing fame—he’s building a legacy.
So when the lights hit the stage in Columbus, Ohio, in March 2026, and the crowd roars for the new wave of bodybuilding…
Don’t be surprised if Sam Sulek walks away with the trophy.
Because this isn’t just a workout.
It’s the beginning of a dynasty.