“I Had Stretch Marks Everywhere” 4x Champ Flex Wheeler Paid a Heavy Price for Securing Prestigious Titles

Flex Wheeler is nothing short of a legend in the bodybuilding industry. He has won the Arnold Classic four times, leading Arnold Schwarzenegger to declare that he is the best in the sport. Regardless of his success, Wheeler’s journey was difficult enough. Growing up as a dyslexic black child in poverty-stricken 1990s America, Flex Wheeler was subjected to bullying and ridicule by society.

His difficulties did not end even after he became famous all over the world. In addition, his persistent use of physique-enhancing drugs, along with a hereditary disease, led to serious complications. The situation also reached a point where Flex was forced to choose between his life and his leg.

Flex Wheeler underwent a partial amputation

In 2019, Flex underwent surgery that resulted in the partial amputation of his right leg. The IFBB pro recalled: “At that point, the doctor just looked at me and I started crying because I knew. She said ‘Flex, we’re there.’” Thankfully, youThe surgery was a success and today he is on the road to recovery.

Wheeler recently spoke with Dennis James on The Menace Podcast, where he admitted to using steroids. “(I had) stretch marks everywhere. They were so painful, they were like big worms…” the fixed. “You can still see them on my forearm, between my legs. They were huge and red, it was horrible.” added.

Wheeler was diagnosed with kidney disease in 1999. To his doctor’s dismay, test results could not pinpoint the source of the problem. Later, the athlete noticed that he had gained more than 30 pounds and developed swelling in his hands, feet, and genitals. In 2020, Wheeler revealed that the extremely rare disease is called segmental glomerulosclerosis, which affects a person’s blood circulation. After undergoing a kidney transplant in 2004, Wheeler was under constant medical supervision.

Wheeler is on the road to recovery

Flex Wheeler then decided to document the stages of his recovery on his social media. Additionally, in an Instagram video posted by Wheeler, he was seen working out at the gym. Subtitled, “I will not be denied. Let’s go.”, the video saw Wheeler’s prosthetic leg in action while he worked out on a leg press. Her admirable show of resilience led to worldwide support from her fans.

He had a hard life. From surviving a near-death experience from a car accident in 1994 himself to being a three-time Mr. Olympia runner-up; Flex Wheeler remains a legend in his sport. In conclusion, his life is a testament to his warrior spirit.

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Flex Wheeler retired from competitive bodybuilding in 2000. Today, he is the face of his own luxury sneaker brand.