Breon Ansley‘s exit from the Classic Physique division may be short-lived after all. On Monday, IFBB Vice President Tyler Manion announced an across-the-board weight increase for athletes in Classic Physique, with shorter statures afforded an extra seven pounds. In a recent Instagram post, Ansley reacted to the news and teased a possible return to Classic Physique.
“It does get interesting! The increase in the weight cap would put me at 187lbs guys; however, I might not have to cut water so heavy so I could weigh in at 192lbs because I wouldn’t lose as much height! Definitely, something to sleep on!” Breon Ansley shared.
‘The Black Swan’ reached the pinnacle of his career in 2017 when he captured his first Classic Physique Olympia title. Sporting one of the best backs in the sport, Ansley proved himself countless times on stage against elite talent. But it’s not just Ansley’s back that makes him so imposing, it’s how he presents his physique on stage through artful posing and seamless transitions.
In 2018, Ansley became a two-time Classic Physique Olympia champion. However, his rival, Chris Bumstead, finally caught up to Ansley in their next outing. Bumstead, who boasts a tall frame and shapely X-frame, has since held the crown. Last December, Ansley returned to the 2022 Mr. Olympia for a final push to dethrone ‘Cbum.’ In the end, Ansley fell short in fourth. He later mapped out a move to Men’s 212 Bodybuilding because he felt he was losing excessive muscle by cutting weight for the Classic Physique division.
Even though he’s yet to finalize his next show, fans, and bodybuilders expect Ansley to make a statement should he follow through on his 212 splash. In preparation for the jump, Ansley has offered glimpses into his new diet. He hopes to gain 10 pounds of muscle for the transition. Although now that Classic Physique allows for another seven pounds, Ansley admits he’s got some thinking to do.
Breon Ansley Teases Classic Physique Comeback After His Weight Limit Increases by 7 Lbs
According to Ansley, the new weight change would result in an “entirely different look.” He intends to discuss the matter with his team before jumping to any conclusions.
“Yes, yes I have heard the news. Pretty ironic how I’m in here practicing posing, looking at everything, looking at the checks and balances. And I hear the news that they are upping the shorter heights in Classic by seven pounds.
So, that does make a difference for me ladies and gentlemen, absolutely, it would be an entirely different look for me on stage… and I will discuss it with the team to see where we stand, to see what decisions we make because of it. Alright? Love you guys, thank you for all the messages, thank you for the support. Love y’all. We’ve got to get back to work still… regardless of what we’re going to do,” Breon Ansley shared.
Given his issues with the Classic Physique weight cap in the past, many assume Ansley could find success in the 212 category. In fact, reigning four-time Classic Physique Olympia Chris Bumstead said years ago that he thought Breon’s rightful place was in the 212 division.
Aside from Classic Physique, Tyler Manion also announced changes to the Men’s Physique class earlier this year. They implemented a new height/weight cap restriction, which was put in place to prevent Men’s Physique athletes from rivaling the size of Classic Physique competitors.
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As a former Olympia winner, it’s hard to imagine Breon Ansley won’t deliver fireworks in a potential 212 Bodybuilding venture. Having prepared months for this transition, Ansley has yet to decide if he will change course and return to his old division. However, if he intends to step on the Olympia stage as a 212 athlete, he must win a Pro show before October 9.