

Flex Wheeler may have never won the Mr. Olympia title, but that does not take away the legacy that he has created. Hailed as ‘The Sultan of Symmetry,’ he is undeniably one of the greatest bodybuilders of all time. His muscle mass and symmetry put him in a category of athletes to have one of the ‘most-conditioned physiques of all time.’ Having faced multiple hurdles, the bodybuilding champion knows the power of the dream.
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The young boy from Fresno always considered himself ‘The Dreamer.’ Expressing himself back in July, the retired bodybuilder on Instagram posted with the caption, “Time To Say Goodbye To The Dreamer.” The post, however, wasn’t well received by the followers and sparked debate.
Flex clarified the intent of his Instagram post
When Flex sat for an interview with Generation Iron, the latter was asked: “what he thought about some fans thinking this was a message about suicide or depression.” Counter-questioning the interviewer, Flex said, “Would I really use Instagram as a platform to say that to people?”
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In the video that Flex shared, he was seen in a black-and-white frame as a song played in the background. He said about his intentions regarding the post, “I consider myself a dreamer in bodybuilding and everything. I’ve done that same video again before, and I would just say, “The Dreamer.”
He added, “If you listen to the music, the song was really powerful, and I don’t really remember. I don’t wanna ruin it. They’re saying they can never have this, that they’re dreaming.” Flex has had a tough battle with his health. He has achieved success and respect from his fans, but his struggle for stardom was never easy. There was indeed a time when he had suicidal thoughts.
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Flex talked about his suicidal thought
Growing up, years were difficult for Flex. He always felt that he “wasn’t going to be here long.” He hence was reckless and battled with suicidal thoughts. However, a ‘particular incident changed his life forever. Hospital visits were not new for him. But his last visit altered his perspective for the better.

via Getty
COLUMBUS, OH – MARCH 07: Harold Kelley (4) is interviewed by IFBB Pro Legend Flex Wheeler after winning Pro Wheelchair as part of the Arnold Sports Festival on March 7, 2020, at the Greater Columbus Convention Center in Columbus, OH. (Photo by Frank Jansky/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
His condition was critical, and everyone was worried, as his heart wasn’t functioning the best. As the doctors battled to keep him fit, he saw his chest covered with multiple monitors. It impacted Flex deeply. The following days were difficult; he couldn’t sleep for days as it crippled him with the fear of not waking again.
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But with time, he recovered. Though he lost his ability to walk on his legs, he did not lose his passion for life. He is truly inspirational.
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