The Classic Physique division is currently considered the aesthetic pinnacle of professional bodybuilding. This year’s Arnold Classic UK in Birmingham only confirmed this. The audience was treated to a dramatic clash that shuffled the cards in the battle for the world number one position and showed how thin the line between victory and second place is.
Sommerfeld’s triumphant return
The hero of the weekend was Germany’s Mike Sommerfeld. For him, this victory had a special flavour of satisfaction. Just a few weeks earlier he had to miss the Arnold Classic in Ohio because he failed to meet the weight limit. In Birmingham, however, he left nothing to chance.
Sommerfeld, the reigning runner-up from Mr. Olympia 2025, brought to the podium a combination of incredible muscle density and aesthetics that is typical for him. His side and back poses were unmatched compared to the rest of the field. He sent a clear message with this win: Mike Sommerfeld is the main challenger for the upcoming Olympia.
Wesley Vissers: the champion who didn’t sell his skin cheap
The second place went to fan favourite Wesley Vissers. Wesley came to England in a great position – he was fresh off wins at the Arnold Classic Ohio and the Detroit Pro. Although he looked even fitter and “sharper” in Birmingham than in Ohio (especially in the thighs and broad back muscles), it wasn’t enough for Sommerfeld this time.
The Sommerfeld-Wissers fight was incredibly even. While Wesley dominated with his classic lines and “old-school” look, Mike outclassed him in muscle hardness and detail in his back stance.
Results TOP 6 – Classic Physique Arnold Classic UK 2026:
- Mike Sommerfeld (Winner)
- Wesley Vissers
- Jorge Herrera
- Andrea Mammoli
- Joaquim Camps Angel
- Paul Kanu
Third place went to Jorge Herrera, who also showed the form of his life and confirmed that he belongs to the world’s top riders.
Conclusion
The Arnold Classic UK 2026 showed that the Classic Physique division is in its best shape for years. Mike Sommerfeld proved that it is possible to come back to the top even after a setback, and Wesley Vissers confirmed his consistency. Fans can now look forward to the rematch, which will culminate on the Mr. Olympia stage in September.
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