Knowledge / Athletes

Derek Lunsford: Mr. Olympia Champion in 2023 and 2025

Derek Lunsford: 2-time Mr. Olympia champion (2023, 2025). Read about two-time open champion, competition history, training identity, championship victories and legacy.

Derek Lunsford won the Men's Open Mr. Olympia in 2023 and again in 2025. He had previously won the 212 Olympia in 2021, becoming the first athlete to claim Olympia titles in both divisions.

Quick facts

Athlete: Derek Lunsford
Country: United States
Division: Men's Open Bodybuilding
Mr. Olympia titles: 2
Championship years: 2023, 2025
Known for: Two-time Open champion

Road to Mr. Olympia

Lunsford reached the top of the 212 category in 2021 and finished second in Men's Open at the 2022 Olympia, just behind Hadi Choopan. He defeated Choopan to win in 2023. Samson Dauda captured the 2024 championship while Lunsford placed third, but Lunsford returned to claim his second Open title in 2025.

Physique and legacy

His crossover from 212 to Open highlights how muscular development, proportional balance and weight-class progression can shape an elite career. A later Arnold Classic victory also strengthened his competitive record.

Defining Olympia moment

In 2025 Lunsford reclaimed the Sandow after a year without the title, joining the small group of champions who have won it back after being displaced. Nick Walker took the title in 2026, with Lunsford finishing third.

Mr. Olympia championship record

Year	Finish
2023	1st — Men's Open
2025	1st — Men's Open