Men’s Open bodybuilding sensation Derek Lunsford is setting his sights on another major title after his recent victory at the 2025 Arnold Classic.
The reigning champion has officially confirmed his participation in the highly anticipated 2025 Pittsburgh Pro, further solidifying his commitment to etching his name in bodybuilding history.
Before making it official on Monday, Derek Lunsford had hinted at his involvement in the event through a cryptic social media message.
His participation in the Pittsburgh Pro marks another significant step in his illustrious career as he continues to build his legacy in the Men’s Open category.
Derek Lunsford’s Journey to Bodybuilding Glory
Derek Lunsford’s ascent in bodybuilding has been nothing short of extraordinary.
He first made his mark by clinching the Olympia 212 title, a prestigious accomplishment in itself.
However, his hunger for greatness saw him transition to the Men’s Open category, where he secured the Mr. Olympia title on just his second attempt.
This victory made him the first athlete in history to win titles in two different Olympia divisions, further cementing his legacy in the sport.
Now, fresh off his Arnold Classic victory, Lunsford is eager to add another feather to his cap at the Pittsburgh Pro, a competition that has long been considered a stepping stone to Olympia greatness.
Why Lunsford Chose the Pittsburgh Pro
Explaining his decision to compete in the Pittsburgh Pro’s first-ever Men’s Open division, Derek Lunsfordrd expressed his deep respect for the event’s significance.
“I feel the Pittsburgh Pro is going to be, what I would call, a legacy show. Meaning, if you have that Pittsburgh Pro title, that is a real notch in your belt. That is a real title that you can carry with pride,” Lunsford stated.
His ultimate goal is to complete a historic three-peat by securing victories at the Arnold Classic, the Pittsburgh Pro, and the Olympia within the same year.
“With that being said, the position that I’m in right now, having just come off the Arnold Classic win. To do the Arnold Classic, to do the Pittsburgh Pro, and to do the Olympia all in the same year and be victorious in all three would be another monumental, historical moment in bodybuilding history,” he added.
Pittsburgh Pro: A Gateway to Greatness
The Pittsburgh Pro has long been a prestigious event in bodybuilding, renowned for featuring top-tier Men’s Open competitors.
Traditionally recognized as a major guest-posing event ahead of the summer, the competition was officially expanded in October to include a Men’s Open category.
Derek Lunsford is no stranger to the Pittsburgh stage. In 2022, he made a stunning guest-posing appearance after winning the 212 Olympia title.
His incredible size and conditioning at the time made it evident that he would not be able to return to the 212 division, pushing him toward the Open category.
His rapid rise in the Men’s Open division was further accelerated by a special invitation to the Mr. Olympia contest, where he impressively placed in the top three.
Now, as the reigning Arnold Classic champion, Derek Lunsford is once again aiming to leave a lasting mark in Pittsburgh before heading to the Olympia stage for yet another showdown against the sport’s elite.
Stacked Lineup for the 2025 Pittsburgh Pro
The 2025 Pittsburgh Pro’s Men’s Open category will feature a fierce lineup of nine competitors, promising an intense battle for supremacy. The official list includes:
- William Bonac
- Martin Fitzwater
- James Hollingshead
- Michal Krizo
- Derek Lunsford
- Leandro Peres
- Vitaliy Ugolnikov
- Nick Walker
- Eric Wood
With top-tier names in the mix, the event is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory. Derek Lunsford will have to bring his best package to the stage to claim victory against such a formidable lineup.
Lunsford’s Legacy in the Making
Derek Lunsford’s decision to compete at the 2025 Pittsburgh Pro highlights his relentless pursuit of excellence.
With his eyes set on making history, he is on track to complete a remarkable three-peat if he secures victories at the Arnold Classic, Pittsburgh Pro, and Mr. Olympia in the same year.
As the bodybuilding world eagerly awaits the showdown in Pittsburgh, one thing is certain—Derek Lunsford is not slowing down.
His journey continues, and with each competition, he cements his legacy as one of the greatest to ever step on stage.