Flex Wheeler honored for lifetime achievement at Arnold Classic

While Flex Wheeler never won an Olympia title, he had a very successful bodybuilding career. In 1993, he nearly took the title from six-time Olympia winner Dorian Yates, but eventually placed second. In 1998 and 1999, he came incredibly close to winning Mr. Olympia again after finishing second to Ronnie Coleman. Flex won four Arnold Classic titles during his career (1993, 1997, 1998, 2000) and is now one of the biggest legends in the sport!

Flex Wheeler VS. Dorian Yates | Mr. Olympia 1993

Wheeler has struggled with constant health problems throughout his bodybuilding career. In 2003 he received a kidney transplant after a serious car accident. In 2019, he even had his leg amputated. However, in a podcast with Dennis James, he even revealed that his kidneys were starting to show signs of failure. However, despite the adversity in his life, Flex is still pursuing bodybuilding and many young bodybuilders still seek his advice. Among them is Andrew Jacked, who, thanks to Flex's advice, was able to get his pro card last year and has already won two professional victories.

The organizers of the Arnold Classic have decided to give Flex Wheeler a lifetime achievement award as part of the competition. In 2021, eight-time Mr. Olympia winner Ronnie Coleman also received the award. He gave a heartfelt and emotional speech, which he said was the hardest speech he has ever had to give in his life.

During the award presentation, Arnold told Wheeler the following:

"I've told you many times, you've won four Arnold Classics, I've always considered you one of the greatest champions of all time. You had symmetry, greatness. Thank you so much for your great service."

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