On the precipice of bodybuilding immortality, Lunsford is looking to bring out the best in him at Olympia this year.
Former 212-time Olympia Champion (2021) Derek Lunsford will make his debut at the 2022 Mr. Olympia Men’s Open. Lunsford certainly made the most of his stage debut at the sport’s flagship class after eventual champion Hadi Choopan finished second with distinction. As the 2023 calendar year begins, Lunsford has set high personal expectations for the months ahead.
appear on a podcast Fouad Abiad Media On January 1, 2023, Lunsford discussed his upcoming plans after finishing runner-up at the 2022 Olympia.Among the more noteworthy tidbits are The athlete reveals he won’t play at the 2023 Arnold Classic this March Because he will focus most of his energy on winning his first career Olympia title in November 2023.
With the bigger picture in mind, Lunsford notably passed up a potential 2023 Arnold Classic appearance to improve his overall physique, such as his chest and leg muscles. The plan is generally in line with Lunsford’s unique Olympia approach from 2022. As the new year begins, he’s wasting no time training for the next Olympia.
“I’m going back to the gym right away to get ready for next year,” Lunsford said. “I just know it’s a new beginning for me.”
Lunsford congratulated and applauded Choopan, who he knew had been chasing the top of bodybuilding for years, but would soon be there. Lunsford, meanwhile, noted how close the final result was and he rejoiced at the chance to push for the eventual winner.
“I’m happy for Hardy [Choopan], man,” Lunsford explained. “He’s been in the business for years. People argue that he should have won the Olympia title. So, I’m happy for him, man. And me, finishing second in my men’s Open Olympia debut, it was really close. I think it’s a one point difference in the forecast. That’s awesome, man. I’m just there to perform and have fun. “
While Lunsford appeared content with his men’s Open debut, he hinted he understands there is still work to be done. Like many elite athletes before him, Lunsford has his crosshairs on improving and getting the job done the next time.
When one is as close to winning as Lunsford is, it’s natural to focus on where to fill the void.
“Man, you can’t complain that you finished second in your Mr. Olympia debut and were arguably fighting for that title,” Lunsford said. “Honestly, I was really on cloud nine, and still am. Then, I just said to myself, ‘Well, well, you’re getting that close. What do you need to get better? For me , how great is it to be so close to winning the title, knowing how much more I can improve? As I said, that’s where my mindset is.I’m one step away [from victory] at my first olympia”
Featured Image: @dereklunsford_ on Instagram