![\"derek](\"http:\/\/www.ironmagazine.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/derek-lunsford-worried.png\")
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There\u2019s no denying what Derek Lunsford completed final season. Profitable the Arnold Basic, Pittsburgh Professional, and Mr. Olympia in the identical 12 months is a historic run. Few bodybuilders have ever put collectively a season like that, and it cemented his place among the many sport\u2019s elite.<\/p>\n
However right here\u2019s the place I believe Derek Lunsford is getting forward of himself.<\/p>\n
Not too long ago, he pushed again in opposition to critics who declare bodybuilding doesn\u2019t have a dominant champion proper now. Whereas I perceive why he feels that approach, I don\u2019t suppose anybody needs to be strolling into the Olympia believing the title is already theirs.<\/p>\n
Particularly this 12 months.<\/p>\n
Derek Lunsford Believes He\u2019s the Man to Beat<\/h2>\n
In a current interview, Derek Lunsford questioned how anybody may say there isn\u2019t a dominant bodybuilder within the Open division.<\/p>\n
His argument is fairly easy.<\/p>\n
He beat the perfect guys three completely different instances final season.<\/p>\n
Not simply as soon as.<\/p>\n
Thrice.<\/p>\n
He pointed to victories on the Arnold Basic, Pittsburgh Professional, and Mr. Olympia as proof that he\u2019s clearly the highest athlete within the division. He additionally famous that some rivals skipped sure contests, primarily saying in the event that they weren\u2019t there to problem him, that\u2019s on them\u2014not him.<\/p>\n
From his perspective, it\u2019s laborious to argue with these accomplishments.<\/p>\n
Historical past Doesn\u2019t Assure the Future<\/h2>\n
Right here\u2019s the place I disagree\u2026<\/p>\n
Bodybuilding has one of many shortest recollections in sports activities. You\u2019re solely nearly as good as your final present.<\/p>\n
Each prep begins with a clear slate. No person will get further factors as a result of they received final 12 months.<\/p>\n
The judges don\u2019t care what occurred on the Arnold. They don\u2019t care what occurred in Pittsburgh. They solely decide what stands in entrance of them on Olympia weekend.<\/p>\n
That\u2019s why I believe Derek Lunsford needs to be cautious about speaking as if he\u2019s untouchable. Confidence is necessary. Overconfidence can change into harmful.<\/p>\n
And it\u2019s not like Derek wants extra causes for followers to not like him. He\u2019s already acquired sufficient haters to final him a lifetime.<\/p>\n
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