Derek Lunsford – Two-Time Mr. Olympia Winner – urskalecinski.com

Derek Lunsford is an American bodybuilder pro in the Men's Open category. He has made a name for himself in the bodybuilding scene, not only through his impressive competitive successes, but also through his deep religious connection with God - he prays several times a day.

Lunsford won the Mr. Olympia title in the 212 class in 2021 and in the Men's Open class in 2023. He won both titles together with his coach Hany Rambod, making him the first professional bodybuilder in history to triumph in two weight classes.

Early Years and the Path to Bodybuilding

Born in Indiana in 1993, Lunsford discovered his love for strength training and bodybuilding after high school. At first he tried weightlifting, but quickly found his passion for bodybuilding and began to shape his body in the gym.

After a few amateur shows, he finally won his pro card at the NPC USA Championships in 2017. This was Lunsford's beginning to gain a foothold in the IFBB Professional League.

First Successes in the 212 Class

Since Lunsford was still too light for the open class due to his size, he initially started in the 212 class. In 2017, shortly after winning his pro card, he took part in the Tampa Pro Show and immediately won the Olympia Qualifier. This secured his first participation in the Mr. Olympia, where he took fifth place.

From 2017 to 2021, Lunsford competed in several bodybuilding competitions, winning them and always placing in the top 5 at the Mr. Olympia.

In 2021, Lunsford announced that he would now be working with retired coach Hany Rambod. Just a few months after the announcement, Derek won the 212 class at the Mr. Olympia.

Change to the Open Class and Sensational Victory

In 2022, Lunsford received a rare invitation from the IFBB, allowing him to compete in the open class instead of competing in the 212 class again. He accepted the challenge and finished second to Hadi Choopan at the 2022 Mr. Olympia.

The big breakthrough came in 2023: Lunsford sensationally won the Open Class and made history as the first athlete to win the Mr. Olympia title in two different weight classes.

In 2024, he took third place at the Mr. Olympia. After the retirement of his long-time coach Hany Rambod, he switched to Chris Cormier, who also trains Breon Ansley, in 2025.

Future Plans and New Gym in Florida

Derek Lunsford will compete again in the Arnold Classic Ohio in 2025 - this time under the guidance of his new coach. He lives with his wife Jhelsin Mabaga in Tampa, Florida, where the couple will open their own gym @champselysium in 2025.

Sponsors and Social Media

Lunsford is sponsored by the well-known US brands @evogennutrition (supplements) and @TLF (clothing). With around 1.4 million followers on Instagram, he regularly gives his fans insights into his everyday life, his training and his competition preparations.

Derek Lunsford has impressed the bodybuilding world with his achievements, but the wellness category also has outstanding athletes. Learn more about one of its most iconic figures: Francielle Mattos – Wellness Bodybuilding Icon