Does Cbum Own Gymshark? Complete Breakdown

Does Cbum Own Gymshark? The Complete Breakdown of Chris Bumstead’s Connection to the Brand

I. Introduction

When you hear the name Chris Bumstead, or simply Cbum, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? For most gym lovers, it’s his shredded Classic Physique, those legendary Olympia wins, and the charisma that’s made him one of the most popular figures in bodybuilding today. But recently, another question has been buzzing around fitness circles: does Cbum own Gymshark?

It’s an interesting thought, right? On one side, you have Gymshark—the global giant in fitness apparel, famous for transforming young influencers into brand ambassadors. On the other, you have Cbum—the reigning Classic Physique Olympia champ, entrepreneur, and a social media powerhouse with millions of fans. The mix sounds like a match made in heaven.

But here’s the thing: speculation doesn’t always equal fact. In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know. From Gymshark’s rise as a brand, to Cbum’s business ventures, to the persistent rumors that link the two—we’ll dive deep into separating fact from hype. By the end, you’ll have the clear answer to the burning question: does Cbum own Gymshark?

II. Understanding Gymshark as a Company

A. Origins and Growth of Gymshark

Back in 2012, a teenager named Ben Francis was frustrated with the lack of stylish and functional gym clothing. Like many young lifters, he wanted something that not only worked in the gym but also looked good outside of it. Instead of waiting around for a brand to fill that gap, he decided to create one himself—enter Gymshark.

Ben started out small, literally printing logos on vests in his garage. At the time, he was just 19 years old, balancing part-time jobs with his dream project. But here’s where Gymshark was different: Ben understood the power of social media long before most fitness brands did. Rather than paying for big advertising campaigns, he reached out to YouTubers and Instagram fitness influencers, sending them free gear. This simple strategy snowballed into a viral marketing machine.

Within a few years, Gymshark grew from a side hustle to a fitness fashion empire. The company quickly gained traction among young gym-goers who wanted to wear something that made them feel like part of a movement. Gymshark wasn’t just selling clothing—it was selling identity, community, and the sense of belonging to a fitness lifestyle.

Fast-forward to today, and Gymshark is valued at over $1 billion, making it one of the most successful fitness apparel brands in the world. From bodybuilding expos to global online drops, Gymshark has established itself as a household name in fitness.

But here’s the kicker: despite its massive success, ownership remains tightly controlled, which is why questions like “does Cbum own Gymshark?” pop up. People see a brand this big and assume stars like Chris Bumstead must be behind it—but the reality is a lot more straightforward.

B. Gymshark’s Business Model Explained

One of the biggest reasons Gymshark went from garage startup to billion-dollar empire is its unique business model. Unlike old-school sports brands that relied on brick-and-mortar stores, Gymshark embraced direct-to-consumer e-commerce from day one. That meant cutting out the middlemen and selling straight to customers online.

But the real game-changer was influencer marketing. Instead of pouring money into TV commercials or magazine ads, Gymshark tapped into the rising power of fitness influencers. Remember when YouTube fitness was just blowing up? Gymshark was right there, sponsoring athletes who had loyal online communities. By putting its clothes on influencers, Gymshark wasn’t just showing off products—it was showcasing a lifestyle that followers wanted to copy.

Another key part of their strategy is the drop model. Similar to streetwear giants like Supreme, Gymshark releases limited collections that sell out quickly. This creates urgency, hype, and the feeling of exclusivity. Fans don’t just buy Gymshark because they need gym shorts—they buy it because it makes them feel like part of a movement.

On top of that, Gymshark keeps costs relatively low by focusing on online-only sales. With no physical retail stores (until recently), they avoided huge overhead costs. This allowed them to pour resources back into product development, social media campaigns, and global reach.

So when people wonder, does Cbum own Gymshark? the truth is, he doesn’t—but his influence as a top athlete perfectly fits into the type of ambassador Gymshark would typically partner with. And that’s where the confusion often comes from.

C. Current Ownership and Leadership of Gymshark

Here’s the straight-up truth: Chris Bumstead does not own Gymshark. The brand is still very much under the leadership of its founder, Ben Francis, who remains the majority owner. After stepping away from the CEO role for a while to bring in experienced executives, Ben eventually returned as CEO in 2021, proving his commitment to guiding Gymshark personally.

Today, Gymshark’s ownership structure includes Ben Francis holding the largest stake. In 2020, General Atlantic, a U.S.-based private equity firm, purchased a significant minority stake in the company. That deal valued Gymshark at over £1 billion (around $1.3 billion). While this move gave Gymshark the capital to expand internationally, it didn’t change the fact that Francis is still the driving force behind the brand.

Other key players in Gymshark’s leadership include a board of experienced executives with backgrounds in fashion, e-commerce, and global expansion. Together, they’ve shifted Gymshark from being a niche bodybuilding apparel brand to a lifestyle powerhouse with massive international appeal.

So, when fans ask does Cbum own Gymshark, the evidence is clear: he’s not on the ownership list. And honestly, it makes sense. With his own growing businesses, Cbum doesn’t need to buy into Gymshark—he’s building his own empire. Still, the brand’s history of athlete partnerships keeps fans speculating that one day, someone like Chris could play a bigger role.

III. Who is Chris Bumstead (Cbum)?

A. Career in Bodybuilding

If you’ve been around bodybuilding for even a minute, you’ve probably heard the name Chris Bumstead, or as fans lovingly call him, Cbum. He’s not just another bodybuilder—he’s the face of the Classic Physique division and arguably one of the most recognizable athletes in the sport today.

Cbum’s journey started back in Canada, where he first got into lifting during his teenage years. Inspired by the golden-era look of legends like Arnold Schwarzenegger and Frank Zane, Chris set his sights on building a physique that was aesthetic, balanced, and timeless. That’s why the Classic Physique category fit him perfectly. Unlike the super-mass monsters in Open Bodybuilding, Classic Physique emphasizes symmetry, proportion, and flow.

His breakthrough came at the 2019 Mr. Olympia, where he claimed his first Classic Physique Olympia title. Since then, he’s defended the crown multiple times, making him a five-time Olympia champion (as of 2023). Every year, fans tune in not just to see if Cbum will win again, but also to watch how much sharper, leaner, and more refined his physique gets.

What makes Chris different from other pros is his relatability. He’s not just a competitor on stage—he shares the grind, the struggles, and the behind-the-scenes prep with millions of fans on YouTube and Instagram. He’s open about his health challenges, including dealing with autoimmune issues, which makes him even more respected by his community.

So when the question pops up—does Cbum own Gymshark—it’s natural. With his dominance in bodybuilding and influence beyond the stage, people assume he’s tied to every big brand in fitness. But as we’ll uncover, the story is more about perception than ownership.

B. Cbum’s Personal Brand and Influence

Beyond his bodybuilding success, Chris Bumstead has built a personal brand empire that’s as powerful as his physique. On Instagram alone, he commands over 20 million followers, and his YouTube channel racks up millions of views from fans eager to watch his workouts, diet tips, and lifestyle content.

What sets Cbum apart isn’t just his muscle size—it’s his authenticity. While some influencers only show highlight reels, Chris lets his audience see the good, the bad, and the sweaty reality of prep life. He’ll joke about cravings during dieting, share honest moments about mental health, and celebrate victories with fans as if they were part of his inner circle. This authenticity makes him incredibly relatable, even though he’s at the very top of the sport.

His influence extends far beyond bodybuilding. Brands recognize that partnering with Cbum means access to a highly engaged and loyal fanbase. Fans don’t just follow Chris—they trust him. If he recommends a product, his audience pays attention. That’s why he’s been able to launch his own businesses, such as Raw Nutrition and his personal CBUM merchandise line, instead of just relying on sponsorships.

This level of influence is also why the rumor mill often churns with questions like, does Cbum own Gymshark? From the outside, it makes sense. Gymshark has a history of partnering with fitness influencers, and Cbum is arguably the biggest influencer in bodybuilding. The overlap is enough to make people assume ownership where none exists.

At the end of the day, Chris Bumstead isn’t just a bodybuilder—he’s a cultural figure in fitness, shaping trends, inspiring millions, and showing that being real can be just as powerful as being ripped.

C. Business Ventures and Partnerships

Now, here’s where things get interesting. Beyond the stage lights and Olympia medals, Chris Bumstead is also a savvy businessman. And if you’re wondering, does Cbum own Gymshark, this is the part that clears things up—because while he doesn’t own Gymshark, he definitely owns other ventures.

First, there’s Raw Nutrition, the supplement company he co-owns alongside Matt Jansen and other partners. Raw Nutrition has exploded in popularity, thanks in part to Cbum’s involvement. His own signature line of products under the brand has become a staple for many gym-goers. From pre-workouts to protein powders, anything with his name on it tends to sell out fast.

Then there’s his CBUM fitness apparel line, where he sells clothing and accessories branded with his personal identity. While not as large as Gymshark, it caters directly to his fans who want to rep their favorite athlete both in and out of the gym.

Chris has also dabbled in other entrepreneurial projects, such as collaborations with fitness brands and appearances at global expos. What’s key here is that he’s not just lending his face to brands—he’s building equity. Instead of being a sponsored athlete like many others, he’s putting himself in the driver’s seat of businesses that carry his vision.

So why does the question does Cbum own Gymshark come up so often? Because fans see his level of influence and assume he must be tied to every major fitness brand. But in reality, Cbum is more focused on building his own empire rather than buying into existing giants like Gymshark.

IV. Investigating the Claim: Does Cbum Own Gymshark?

A. Common Sources of Confusion

So, why do so many people keep asking the same question: does Cbum own Gymshark? The answer lies in a mix of social media appearances, influencer overlap, and plain old internet speculation.

For starters, Chris has been seen wearing different brands over the years, and fans often screenshot or repost these moments. Gymshark clothing is so popular in the fitness world that almost every major influencer, athlete, or bodybuilder has worn it at some point. Seeing Chris in Gymshark-style gear—or gear that looks similar—is enough for some fans to jump to conclusions.

Then there’s the fact that Gymshark has built its empire on influencer partnerships. Athletes like Steve Cook, David Laid, and Nikki Blackketter were once strongly associated with the brand. Fans naturally assume that when a superstar like Chris appears in the same circles or poses alongside Gymshark athletes, he must be part of the family too.

And let’s not forget the power of rumor snowballing. One post, one comment, or one YouTube speculation video can quickly spiral into widespread belief. Add to that Chris’s massive following, and it’s no wonder “does Cbum own Gymshark” keeps trending on forums, Reddit threads, and TikTok clips.

In short, the confusion comes from association without confirmation. Just because Chris Bumstead looks like the perfect Gymshark ambassador doesn’t mean he’s an owner or even officially partnered with them. But the fitness industry thrives on blurred lines—between sponsorships, collaborations, and casual endorsements—which makes the rumor believable to many fans.

B. Evidence Against Ownership

Now let’s tackle the evidence directly. If you’re asking, does Cbum own Gymshark, the most important point is this: there’s no official record, announcement, or business document linking Chris Bumstead to Gymshark ownership.

Gymshark is a billion-dollar company with a very transparent list of stakeholders. Founder Ben Francis holds the majority ownership, while General Atlantic, a U.S.-based private equity firm, owns a significant minority share. These details are publicly available, and nowhere in the mix does Chris Bumstead appear.

Second, if Chris had become an owner or shareholder, it would have been headline news in both the bodybuilding and business communities. Gymshark’s collaborations are heavily promoted, and Cbum’s involvement would have been shouted from the rooftops—not whispered in speculation threads.

Another key point is conflict of interest. Chris already co-owns Raw Nutrition, a supplement company that competes in the same fitness consumer space as Gymshark’s partners. He also has his own apparel line, which targets fans directly. Owning Gymshark would be a major clash with his existing ventures, and it doesn’t align with his strategy of building independent businesses.

Lastly, Chris himself has never claimed or hinted at owning Gymshark. If anything, he promotes his own brands with pride, making it clear where his loyalties and focus lie.

So, the evidence is overwhelming: Chris Bumstead is not part of Gymshark’s ownership. The rumors might be fun to speculate about, but the reality is much more straightforward.

C. Possible Connections Without Ownership

Here’s where things get a little more nuanced. Even though the answer to does Cbum own Gymshark is a firm no, that doesn’t mean there aren’t possible connections between him and the brand.

For example, Gymshark has a history of gifting apparel to top athletes—even those who aren’t official ambassadors. It’s part of their strategy to keep their gear visible on big names without signing long-term contracts. Chris may have received Gymshark gear at some point, or worn it casually, which would naturally fuel speculation.

There’s also the reality of shared social circles. Many Gymshark-sponsored influencers often appear at the same expos, events, and fitness meetups as Chris Bumstead. When photos surface of him alongside Gymshark athletes, fans naturally assume he’s tied to the brand.

Another key point is the difference between influence and equity. Chris absolutely has the influence of someone who could carry Gymshark into new markets if they worked together. But influence doesn’t equal ownership. Just because fans see him as a perfect fit doesn’t mean he’s financially tied to the company.

So while Chris doesn’t own Gymshark, it’s not unreasonable for people to think he might collaborate with them one day. Whether through a limited collection, ambassador role, or casual appearances, the connection without ownership is where the rumor gets its legs.

V. Cbum’s Real Business Interests

A. Raw Nutrition Ownership

If you’re wondering, does Cbum own Gymshark, the more accurate question is: what does Cbum actually own? And the crown jewel of his business empire is Raw Nutrition.

Founded with coach Matt Jansen and partner Dom Iacovone, Raw Nutrition was built on the idea of creating supplements that focus on quality and transparency. Chris didn’t just slap his name on the label—he became an active co-owner, involved in product development, branding, and marketing. His “CBUM Series” within Raw Nutrition has become one of the company’s best-selling lines, featuring pre-workouts, proteins, and recovery products tailored to his personal needs as a pro athlete.

What makes Raw Nutrition stand out is its authentic connection to performance. Unlike some supplement brands that feel more like flashy marketing machines, Raw is grounded in science, athlete experience, and real-world application. Chris often shares behind-the-scenes insights into why he chooses certain ingredients or formulations, which builds even more trust with his audience.

The business impact? Massive. Raw Nutrition has grown into one of the most respected brands in the supplement space, with Chris’s involvement being a huge driver of that success. Fans feel like they’re not just buying a product—they’re buying into Cbum’s philosophy of training, recovery, and health.

So while Chris doesn’t own Gymshark, he owns something arguably more valuable for his personal brand—a supplement company that directly ties into his image as an athlete. Raw Nutrition isn’t just a sponsorship—it’s ownership, influence, and a long-term investment in his future.

B. CBUM Fitness Apparel Line

While Gymshark dominates the global stage, Chris Bumstead has his own clothing line—the CBUM Fitness Apparel collection. And this is another reason people often confuse the connection and ask, does Cbum own Gymshark?

Chris’s line is smaller, niche, and laser-focused on his fan base. It’s not about competing head-to-head with Gymshark’s billion-dollar empire—it’s about creating gear that represents his personal brand. His apparel includes T-shirts, hoodies, gym shorts, and accessories, often featuring his signature CBUM logo or motivational slogans tied to his identity as a champion.

One of the biggest draws of his apparel is the sense of loyalty and exclusivity. Fans aren’t just buying gym wear; they’re buying into Chris’s journey, almost like wearing a badge of support for their favorite athlete. In many ways, his merch has the same emotional pull as Gymshark, but on a much more personal level.

From a business perspective, this strategy is smart. Instead of trying to compete directly with Gymshark, Chris leverages his influence to create a parallel niche market. His fans will always choose CBUM-branded gear over generic fitness apparel, because it connects them directly to the athlete they admire most.

So when people confuse his apparel brand with Gymshark ownership, it’s easy to see why. Both are in the fitness clothing space, but Chris’s approach is about depth over scale. He may not own Gymshark, but he owns something far more personal—his own fitness apparel brand that fans proudly represent.

C. Why Cbum Focuses on His Personal Brand

Here’s the million-dollar question: with all the speculation around “does Cbum own Gymshark,” why doesn’t he just join forces with them? The answer lies in one word: independence.

Chris has built his entire empire on authenticity and control. By investing in Raw Nutrition and his own apparel line, he’s not just a face on a billboard—he’s an owner with a say in decisions. That independence allows him to shape businesses in a way that aligns with his values and the needs of his community.

If he were tied to Gymshark, he’d be part of a massive corporate structure. Sure, the exposure would be huge, but it would also mean less control over branding, messaging, and product direction. For someone who’s cultivated trust with millions of fans, that loss of control could actually hurt his long-term image.

Another reason is longevity. Competing on stage won’t last forever, but businesses can. By focusing on his personal brand, Chris ensures that even after his bodybuilding career, he’ll have thriving ventures that generate income and influence. Gymshark may be a powerhouse, but Chris doesn’t need to buy into it when he’s already building his own path.

So while the rumors will always swirl, the reality is simple: Chris chooses independence, ownership, and control over being part of someone else’s empire. That’s why he doesn’t own Gymshark—he doesn’t need to.

VI. Why the Confusion Persists

A. Overlap Between Influencers and Brands

The fitness industry thrives on partnerships, endorsements, and collaborations. That overlap often blurs the line between ownership and sponsorship—and it’s one of the main reasons people keep asking, does Cbum own Gymshark?

Gymshark, in particular, has mastered the art of using influencer marketing to fuel its rise. From the early days, the brand built its image around young fitness YouTubers and Instagram athletes who weren’t just models but also role models for their communities. These athletes wore Gymshark, promoted Gymshark, and in many ways became the face of Gymshark.

Now, enter Chris Bumstead. As one of the most influential bodybuilders in the world, he fits the Gymshark “ideal ambassador” mold perfectly. He’s got the physique, the fanbase, and the personality that connects with audiences. So when fans see Gymshark partnering with other athletes of similar stature, they naturally assume Chris must be involved too.

Another factor is the universality of Gymshark apparel. Almost every lifter owns at least one piece of Gymshark clothing. When Chris appears in generic gym wear or apparel from his own brand, it’s often mistaken for Gymshark because the styles are so similar—sleek, fitted, and performance-oriented.

So the overlap isn’t surprising. Gymshark’s strategy of blending athletes into its identity makes people equate visibility with ownership. And when a superstar like Cbum shows up in the same space, the leap from ambassador to owner feels natural—even though it’s not true.

B. The Power of Association

Here’s something we can all relate to: when two powerful names keep showing up in the same conversation, our brains link them together—whether it’s accurate or not. That’s the power of association, and it’s exactly why so many people think Cbum owns Gymshark.

Chris Bumstead has become synonymous with bodybuilding excellence. Gymshark has become synonymous with fitness apparel dominance. Put the two side by side, and it feels almost inevitable that they’re connected at the business level. It’s the same way we associate Jordan with Nike or Arnold with Gold’s Gym—even though those relationships are more nuanced than simple ownership.

Social media also fuels this effect. Algorithms love linking high-engagement content, so posts about Cbum often appear alongside posts about Gymshark athletes. Fans scrolling quickly may assume they’re related, especially when both dominate the same niche space.

Add in fan-made edits, TikTok mashups, and YouTube speculation videos, and suddenly “does Cbum own Gymshark” becomes more than just a question—it becomes a belief for some. The internet has a way of turning whispers into headlines.

But the reality is clear: while association builds rumors, it doesn’t create ownership. Chris is building his own empire, and Gymshark is charting its own course. The fact that people constantly link the two is a testament to both of their influence—but not a reflection of actual business ties.

C. Fitness Industry Trend of Athlete-Entrepreneurs

There’s another reason this rumor refuses to die: the trend of athletes owning their own brands. In today’s fitness industry, it’s not enough to just compete—you’ve got to capitalize on your influence. And fans know it.

Take Christian Guzman, who built Alphalete and AlphaLand. Or David Laid, who, while not a Gymshark owner, has been a massive figure in brand partnerships. Then you’ve got legends like Arnold Schwarzenegger, who used his bodybuilding fame to create businesses, movies, and political careers.

In this environment, it feels logical for fans to assume Chris Bumstead, the reigning Classic Physique king, must also have ownership stakes in the biggest fitness companies like Gymshark. After all, why wouldn’t he? He’s at the top of the game, and his influence could easily drive sales for a global apparel giant.

The truth, however, is that Chris has chosen a different entrepreneurial path. Instead of attaching himself to Gymshark, he’s investing in Raw Nutrition, his own apparel line, and projects that he can control. It’s a modern athlete’s playbook—own equity, not just contracts.

Still, the athlete-entrepreneur trend fuels expectations. Fans see others doing it and project the same narrative onto Cbum. And that’s why the question “does Cbum own Gymshark” keeps resurfacing. It’s not just curiosity—it’s an assumption shaped by the culture of fitness today.

VII. Conclusion: The Reality of Cbum and Gymshark

So, after all the hype, speculation, and social media rumors, what’s the final answer to the question: does Cbum own Gymshark? The truth is simple: no, he does not. Despite the overlap in audience, appearance in Gymshark-style apparel, and his massive influence in bodybuilding, Chris Bumstead has no official ownership stake in the brand.

That said, the confusion is understandable. Chris is a powerhouse in his own right, and Gymshark has a history of leveraging athletes’ influence to grow. From appearances at expos to the casual wearing of Gymshark gear, it’s easy to see why fans assume a connection exists. But influence does not equal equity. While Gymshark benefits from having high-profile athletes in its orbit, ownership remains firmly with founder Ben Francis and key investors.

Instead, Chris has focused on building his own business empire. His co-ownership of Raw Nutrition, his personal CBUM apparel line, and his digital presence allow him to maintain control, authenticity, and long-term growth. By steering his ventures independently, he ensures that his brand and vision are fully represented, without compromises that might come from joining a global corporation like Gymshark.

In conclusion, while the rumor that Chris Bumstead might own Gymshark is enticing, it’s just that—a rumor. The reality is more strategic and empowering: Cbum is creating his own legacy, separate from Gymshark, that gives him both credibility and financial freedom. Fans can support him through his supplements, apparel, and content, knowing that his entrepreneurial spirit is just as impressive as his physique.

VIII. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Does Chris Bumstead own Gymshark?
No, Chris Bumstead does not own Gymshark. The brand remains primarily owned by founder Ben Francis, with minority investment from firms like General Atlantic.

2. Has Cbum ever been sponsored by Gymshark?
There’s no official sponsorship between Chris and Gymshark. While he may have worn the brand casually or at events, he is not a signed ambassador or sponsored athlete.

3. What brands does Cbum actually own?
Chris co-owns Raw Nutrition, a supplement company, and has his own CBUM fitness apparel line. These ventures allow him to maintain independence and control over his brand.

4. Who really owns Gymshark?
Gymshark is primarily owned by Ben Francis, the founder, along with minority investors like General Atlantic. They handle the major business decisions, leaving no ownership stake for Cbum.

5. Why do so many fans think Cbum is connected to Gymshark?
Fans see Chris in Gymshark-style apparel, attend similar events as Gymshark-sponsored athletes, and observe his massive influence in the fitness industry. These factors, combined with the trend of athlete-entrepreneurs, create the misconception of ownership.

6. Is Cbum planning to collaborate with Gymshark in the future?
There’s no public information suggesting an upcoming collaboration. While a partnership could be mutually beneficial, Chris currently focuses on his own ventures and independence.

7. How does Cbum’s Raw Nutrition compare to Gymshark in the fitness industry?
Raw Nutrition is a supplement-focused brand, whereas Gymshark primarily sells apparel. Both leverage fitness culture and influencer marketing, but Raw Nutrition is directly tied to Cbum’s personal brand and ownership, giving him more control over products and messaging.

Read more: Does Chris Bumstead Own Raw Nutrition?