A Jamaican bodybuilding icon defeated the seven-times Mr. Olympia Phil Heath at the age of 43. He became the oldest bodybuilding champion in the history of the sport. However, in a tragic turn of events, he died due to a fatal heart attack two years ago. His journey was remarkable and he was an active person since childhood.
The deceased bodybuilder played various sports and was known for being a part of the soccer team for several years during his youth. He delved into bodybuilding in the early 90s. Although his path to bodybuilding wasn’t easy and was filled with ups and downs, he left an indelible mark on the sport. Recently a bodybuilding legend, Flex Wheeler shared a post on his social media in remembrance of Shawn Rhoden on his death anniversary.
Flex Wheeler reminisces about Shawn Rhoden on his death anniversary
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Rhoden passed away on 6th November 2021 due to a heart attack. His trainer, Chris Aceto, confirmed the sad news of his passing. The news of his untimely demise sent shockwaves throughout the bodybuilding arena. Fellow athletes expressed their grief and paid their respect to the late icon. His demise was a shock to date.
Earlier, the Sultan of Symmetry posted a picture of Rhoden on his Instagram story and wrote to it, “Rest in Power Lil Bro.“ Flexatron’s start in bodybuilding was incredible, but he faced several challenges to accomplish his goals. He went through injuries that forced him to quit competing. Afterward, he lost his father during the peak of his career.
After his father, Lloyd, passed away in 2002, Rhoden couldn’t handle it and became an alcoholic himself, but he managed to overcome this problem and began training. Despite those hurdles, in 2011, the Jamaican Muscle Machine competed in the prestigious Mr. Olympia contest, securing 11th place.
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Flexatron: Becoming Shawn Rhoden
In the upcoming years, he impressed the world with amazing improvements. But the monumental moment came in the limelight in the year 2018. When he was 43 and won his first Sandow trophy by dethroning the seven-time title holder Phil Heath.
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Rhoden’s path to success was so astounding that Generation Iron made a documentary film on his life, showcasing his ups and downs and the victory he accomplished. The movie is called ‘Flexatron: Becoming Shawn Rhoden. This documentary was released in 2019 and featured the eight-time Mr. Olympia Ronnie Coleman, Rhoden himself and it was directed by Tony Pettiford.
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