“Favorite Physique”: Bodybuilding Fans Proclaim ‘Sultan of Symmetry’ as One of the Greatest to Ever Step on Stage

There’s a reason why veteran bodybuilding fans rave about the 90s, and that’s because of Flex Wheeler. After Dorian Yates spearheaded the mass monster era, bodybuilders like Wheeler, Shawn Ray, and a handful of others reintroduced aesthetics to the mix. However, Wheeler stood out among others, garnering even Arnold Schwarzenegger’s attention.

While Yates had taken size and conditioning to a whole new level, Wheeler showed the bodybuilding world that one could retain symmetry and proportions despite being shredded and massive. Despite never having won the Olympia, the Arnold Sports Festival page reminded everyone why fans called Wheeler the uncrowned Mr. Olympia.

“Shape, Splits and Symmetry. Flex Wheeler had it all when he won his 2nd Arnold Classic in 1997,“ wrote the official Arnold Sports Festival Instagram handle on their post. They posted a highlight of the bodybuilding icon’s incredible posing routine from 1997. Previously calling him one of the greatest bodybuilders he had ever seen, Arnold remains in awe of Wheeler.

The clip showed Wheeler showing off his massive and chiseled body before doing a full split on the stage. Arnold Schwarzenegger complimented the bodybuilder throughout the posing routine. “I think he is the only bodybuilding who can go down in the split position,“ said Arnie in the clip.

The bodybuilding legend also said that Flex Wheeler’s proportions, symmetry, conditioning, muscularity, and flexibility made the Sultan of Symmetry his favorite bodybuilder of all time. Schwarzenegger reiterated that statement when he handed Wheeler the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Arnold Classic 2022.

Bodybuilding fans also agreed with Arnold Schwarzenegger’s take on the uncrowned Mr. Olympia. The footage reminded them why Wheeler is revered even today.

Bodybuilding fans bow in front of Flex Wheeler’s greatness

“One of the best bodybuilders in history right there,“ commented one fan as he witnessed Wheeler’s 1997 posing routine. “My all-time favorite body. Greetings legend,“ comments a second fan appreciating all the efforts Wheeler has put into achieving the perfect physique. A third fan also commented on the same lines by writing: “My favorite physique of all time!“ Others also sang similar praises of the Sultan of Symmetry.

“Flex was elite there’s no doubt about it! Icon in the industry and a legend,“ wrote one fan remembering Wheeler’s contribution to bodybuilding as he narrowly missed the Mr. Olympia title thrice, ending in the runner-up position. Meanwhile, another bodybuilding fan compared the four-time Arnold Classic winner with modern bodybuilders,” (The) current batch of bodybuilders don’t even come close,“ he stated.

While he retired from bodybuilding due to severe health issues, Flex Wheeler continues to inspire countless aspiring bodybuilders.