The bodybuilding arena is privileged to have athletes that contribute beyond limits to the development of the sport. Flex Wheeler is one such bodybuilder who, despite severe adversities in life, continues to contribute to the sport’s growth. For his remarkable legacy, he received the lifetime achievement award in Arnold Classic in 2023.

But what holds the moment are the emotions that resonated in the auditorium as Wheeler delivered his acceptance speech. His words reflected how much he revered the bodybuilding icon.

Flex Wheeler was overwhelmed with Arnold Schwarzenegger’s kind words

The Arnold Classic never fails to recognize the outstanding efforts of bodybuilders who have helped develop the sport. Ronnie Coleman is also a recipient of the award. This year the Arnold Classic community felicitated Wheeler with the honor. Presenting the award, Schwarzenegger said, “I told him many times, I mean, he won four Arnold Classics, and they always considered you one of the greatest champions of all time.” 

The Austrian Oak also mentioned how Wheeler’s role was significant in promoting the sport. “The way you’ve promoted the sport of bodybuilding you’ve done an extraordinary job, and that’s why you get this Lifetime Achievement Award,” Arnie said before giving a warm hug to the winner. While reading his acceptance speech, Wheeler was moved to tears as he shared his gratitude to the bodybuilding legend, Arnold.

“You truly don’t know what you mean to me,” Wheeler confessed while controlling his deep emotions for Arnie. “I never wanted to limit you, but I have the honor of this man here calling me one of the greatest of all times, and that’s better than anything to have,” a visibly overwhelmed Wheeler poured his heart out as he appreciated the great words from the 75-year-old.

Flex Wheeler’s life has been a rollercoaster ride

Born in 1965 in California, Wheeler’s childhood was poverty-stricken. He confessed to having suicidal thoughts in his early life, but he rose over it with grit. Earning the title, Flex from his peers, he made it his identity.

Wheeler proved to be a bodybuilding champion, winning four Arnold Classic titles, five Ironman Pro titles, the France Grand Prix, and many more. He has overcome a life-threatening car accident and kidney disease. In 2019, he lost his right leg to persistent health issues.

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Despite the odds, Wheeler never succumbed to destiny and steered his life toward unfathomable success with perseverance. But what moved the strong bodybuilding icon were the warm words of Arnold Schwarzenegger.

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