"Form for the show, not for the Olympics!" comes from Lee Priest to Lunsford.

The world of professional bodybuilding is shaking at its foundations after a recent wave of criticism from the legendary Lee Priest, who questioned the form of reigning Mr. Olympia 2025 champion, Derek Lunsford.

Lee Priest, an Australian bodybuilding icon renowned for his incredible arm form and outspoken opinions, has made some uncharitable comments about Lunsford's victory in several recent interviews and podcasts.

According to Priest, Lunsford wasn't in the peak condition on the Mr. Olympia stage that the world's most prestigious competition requires.

"It was exhibition form (guest posing form)," Priest said. "Come on, it's Mr. Olympia. You're supposed to be the best of the best... You have to be a professional and hit it on the day."

Priest went even further in his analysis. Evaluating the front lat spread pose, he likened Lunsford to a "waterlogged beached whale," alluding to the visible water retention and lack of sharp detail.

Lunsford's massive arms have not escaped criticism. Social media posts, such as the one from @whoisthebestbb, quote another statement from Priest that perfectly encapsulates his attitude:

"Derek's arms look like mine did when I was 285 lbs (about 129 kg), all fat and water."

With this statement, Priest emphasizes that Lunsford's arms, while possessing tremendous bulk, lack the quality, hardness, and separation that he had in his prime.

Lee Priest, in his own "reassessment" of the Olympia results, ranked Lunsford outside the top four and expressed his belief that athletes like Andrew Jacked and Hadi Choopan should have been ranked higher. This controversy has thus reignited the debate over whether massive size should be prioritised over perfect fitness and aesthetics at Olympia.