“We Had Some Fierce Battles”: Flex Wheeler Joins Bodybuilding World in Reminiscing About Ronnie Coleman’s Win Against Him in 1999 Mr. Olympia

In 1999, a significant event unfolded in the history of Mr. Olympia. The top two bodybuilders who stood at the Olympia stage in 1999 till the last were the same pair to do so in the previous year’s competition. Consequently, people eagerly anticipated the outcome of that year’s competition. Indeed, with the crowning of the champion here, not only did bodybuilding sports witness a transformation, but it also marked the beginning of a legendary rivalry and the rise of ‘the King’.

The epic battle between Ronnie Coleman and Flex Wheeler commenced in 1998, yet it is essential to remember the deep admiration these athletes held for each other, which continues to this day. Recently, Olympia’s official Instagram page posted a video showcasing the iconic moment from the 1999 Olympia. In response, the Sultan of Symmetry commented on the post, expressing his ongoing admiration for the King.

Flex Wheeler’s Comments on Ronnie Coleman Capture the Attention of Bodybuilding Enthusiasts

The video garnered widespread attention on social media, as people applauded both Ronnie and Wheeler for being exceptional bodybuilders. However, beyond the video, Wheeler’s comments truly captivated bodybuilding enthusiasts. The 4x Arnold Classic winner expressed his admiration by stating, “It was such an honor to compete with Ronnie Coleman on stage. We had some fierce battles. But most important we forged an unbreakable brotherhood. All hail, the King.” Genuine admiration for the 8x Olympia champion shone through.

In the video, Ronnie and Wheeler stood side by side, facing 5,600 people at The Theatre at New York’s Madison Square Garden, eagerly awaiting the announcement of the second-place winner. Mr. Olympia promoter, Wayne DeMilia, revealed, “In second place” DeMilia uttered before deliberately pausing for an agonizing 10 seconds and then declaring, “Flex Wheeler!” Consequently, The King dropped to his knee as he triumphantly claimed his second Mr. Olympia title.

Flex Wheeler’s Respectful Rivalry with Ronnie Coleman

Undoubtedly, this isn’t the first occasion where Wheeler has expressed his admiration for Ronnie. Throughout their careers, even as they fiercely competed on the Olympia stage, the bodybuilding legend consistently admired the King. Four years ago, Flex Wheeler made an appearance on the ‘Mind-Pump-Showhow’ YouTube channel. Throughout the podcast, the former Olympia runner-up discussed competing against Ronnie Coleman and expressed his belief that Ronnie remains the reigning king.

Read More: Years After Retirement, GOAT Ronnie Coleman Reveals His Biggest Rival, and It’s Not Jay Cutler or Flex Wheeler

The retired professional bodybuilder confidently stated, “He’s the king. Ronnie will always be the king.” Additionally, the Sultan of Symmetry shared, “I hope I am alive and hope I’m safe to look at the person who beats his best physique ever.”

Their legacies persist in inspiring generations, while their iconic battles and steadfast mutual respect continue to play a crucial role in bodybuilding history.

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