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‘The Sultan of Symmetry’ Flex Wheeler Recently Argued the Only Way He Could Have Got “Better Was in the Coffin”

Published 10/30/2022, 1:47 AM EDT

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Flex Wheeler is one of the most aesthetic bodybuilders in the history of the sport. Wheeler worked really hard throughout his career and even after. Unfortunately, he has suffered from medical issues since his formative years in the sport that have blocked his capacity to perform at his best. However, Flex never compromised in his training.

The four Arnold Classic titles are proof of his extreme passion and hard work. Moreover, he gave some serious competition to all-time greats like Dorian Yates, Ronnie Coleman and even Shawn Ray. Last month, Wheeler discussed his introduction to bodybuilding and how he grew after coming into it.

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Flex Wheeler chased everything he could 

Flex Wheeler is one of the bodybuilders who didn’t win any Mr. Olympia titles, but was rated very highly. The journey wasn’t an easy one at all for the Arnold Classic champion. He has suffered several major health issues throughout his career. Last month, in an interview with Jay Cutler, he expressed his journey and his mindset.

Wheeler said“I didn’t know anything about bodybuilding, dieting or diuretics, so I took one deca(de) for the show and tried to be the best. I didn’t hit the 90 percentile right away, but I kept getting better. I was rough around the edges and thought the only way I could get better was in the coffin, but the truth is I was in my 90 percentile the best I could be, and I chased after whatever the winning physique was.”

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“Was Leaking Protein in My Urine”: Pro Bodybuilder Flex Wheeler Once Opened Up About Being Confronted With a Severe Illness at 14

Wheeler wasn’t the best when he entered the sport. But his impeccable physique helped him become one of the best in the sport.

Flex had to get his leg amputated to live

After fighting his kidney disease since the age of 14, Wheeler had a very unfortunate incident in 2019. He found out about the problem with the kidney when the doctors found traces of protein in the urine. Moreover, the issue got worse with time, as the protein content constantly increased. Once, he disclosed how he suffered from FSGS, a condition that restricts proper blood filtration.

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In 2019, the problems worsened when his arteries were blocked and blood flow became impossible. Hence, his life was in danger due to the kidney problem. Following expert advice from medical professionals, he chose to amputate his leg.

Watch this story: 8X Mr. Olympia Ronnie Coleman Disclosed the Amount of Money He Spent on Bodybuilding Competitions During His Career

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Flex Wheeler has been an epitome of hard work and passion. He worked extremely hard to become a legend of the sport despite his well-documented medical issues.

What is your favorite moment in Wheeler’s career? Give us your thoughts in the comments.

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Written by:

Kaivalya R Pillai

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One take at a time

Dr. Kaivalya R Pillai is a US Sports author working at EssentiallySports. An accomplished academician, he recently completed his doctorate degree in pharmacy.
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Edited by:

Tony Thomas