Derek Lunsford is chasing history in a way nobody has done before—by going for the sport’s first-ever “Triple Crown.” In the world of bodybuilding, where size, symmetry, and sheer willpower define greatness, Lunsford’s ambition is setting a new precedent.
The “Triple Crown” represents a feat that no athlete in IFBB history has ever accomplished: winning titles in three bodybuilding competitions. It’s a bold vision—one that blends physical transformation with historical ambition.
Who Is Derek Lunsford?
Derek Lunsford began his journey like many great champions do: with humble origins and an obsession with improving his physique. As an amateur, he quickly made a name for himself with a dense, balanced structure that defied his weight class. His early promise was visible not only in muscle maturity but in his poise and posing, elements that set him apart on national stages.
He became a professional in the IFBB, with high expectations surrounding his future, especially within the 212 division. It didn’t take long for Lunsford to confirm the hype. He possessed a rare combination of mass, symmetry, and an X-frame that made him appear larger than his actual competition weight.
His signature look—deeply etched abs, round muscle bellies, and a tapered waist—gave him an aesthetic edge over many rivals in his class.
Lunsford’s Achievements So Far
In 2021, Lunsford won the 212 Mr. Olympia title. His conditioning that year was at its peak, and fans and judges alike praised his presentation. The win made him one of the sport’s elite competitors.
Lunsford then leapt into the Open division. This move raised questions about how his physique would stack up against much larger competitors. Those questions were answered spectacularly in 2023 when Lunsford won the Mr. Olympia Open Division title, defeating seasoned veterans and surpassing all expectations.
Last May 10, 2025, he clinched the 2025 Pittsburgh Pro Men’s Open champion. He defeated Nick Walker and Martin Fitzwater, who bagged second and third place, respectively.
These victories made him one of the very few bodybuilders to claim titles in three distinct competitions. It was also a clear demonstration of his versatility—he could sculpt himself to meet the demands of different classes while preserving his structural integrity and aesthetic flow.
What Is the Bodybuilding Triple Crown?
The idea of a bodybuilding Triple Crown is new, but it’s quickly gaining traction thanks to Lunsford’s unprecedented path. Simply put, it refers to winning titles in three different bodybuilding competitions, such as the Arnold Classic, the Olympia, and the Pittsburgh Pro.
To date, no bodybuilder has achieved titles in different divisions and competitions. Some have crossed between divisions—Flex Lewis and Hadi Choopan among them—but none have claimed titles across three.
What It Would Take to Achieve This Feat
Achieving a Triple Crown would require an immense level of physical recalibration. Transitioning from different divisions and competitions would demand significant changes in body composition, posing style, and presentation.
Beyond the physical, the feat would require extraordinary strategic foresight. Preparing for different categories requires different diets, training protocols, and peak strategies. It is now more critical to time shows correctly to avoid over-prepping or missing the mark on conditioning.
And it’s not just about muscle – it’s about control, understanding the sport nuances, and managing the body like a sculptor returning to a masterpiece with a different vision each time.
The Impact on Bodybuilding History
If Lunsford achieves the Triple Crown, he will instantly redefine the criteria for what it means to be a legendary bodybuilder. Greatness will no longer be measured only by dominance in a single division; it will also include adaptability and range across the spectrum of competitive bodybuilding.
The fan response to Lunsford’s ascent has already been massive. He’s not only earned the respect of judges and peers, but also of fans who see him as a bridge between eras: a modern mass monster with a classical twist. Social media buzz around his potential third crown is already building, as analysts and former competitors weigh in on whether such a feat is possible—or even wise.
Comparisons to legends like Flex Wheeler, Ronnie Coleman, and Phil Heath are inevitable, but Lunsford’s multi-divisional success could give him a lane entirely his own. If achieved, the Triple Crown would likely be viewed as a new pinnacle in bodybuilding legacy, perhaps even harder than winning eight Mr. Olympia titles in a single division.
What’s Next for Derek Lunsford in 2025?
The bodybuilding community is watching closely. Lunsford has not officially announced an attempt at a third Olympia title in a new division.
Sources close to his training camp suggest that Lunsford and his team are carefully evaluating the opportunity, balancing long-term health, career trajectory, and the magnitude of such a decision. His coach has hinted at “a focus on legacy-building,” but remains tight-lipped about specific plans.
In the meantime, Lunsford appears focused on defending his Open title. Whether the Triple Crown attempt comes this year or further down the line, one thing is certain: Derek Lunsford is not content with just being great. He wants to change the game.
Frequently Asked Questions
Has Derek Lunsford won in more than one Olympia division?
Yes, Derek Lunsford won the 212 Mr. Olympia title in 2021 and the Open Mr. Olympia title in 2023, making him one of the few bodybuilders to hold titles in two distinct Olympia divisions.
Is Derek Lunsford planning to return to 212?
A return to 212 seems unlikely due to his current size and success in the Open class. However, no official statements have ruled it out.
How would achieving the Triple Crown impact Lunsford’s legacy?
Achieving the Triple Crown would place Lunsford in a unique category of bodybuilding legends, showcasing unmatched versatility and solidifying his place in IFBB history.
