First impressions have a lot to do with the impact one makes. And the ‘Sultan of Symmetry’ did it tremendously well. Even 7x Mr. Olympia Arnold Schwarzenegger has mentioned him multiple times as the greatest bodybuilder in the history of bodybuilding. Flex Wheeler took the bodybuilding world by storm when he made his debut in 1993. 

In an interview during Arnold Sports Festival 2022, Wheeler opened up about his entry as a pro-bodybuilder which made him a record holder in the Guinness Book of World Records. Moreover, he still holds that record to this date, which makes him the record holder for almost three decades now. What was the record about?

Flex Wheeler’s dominant start in his pro-bodybuilding career

4x Arnold Classic winner Flex Wheeler began his journey as a pro-bodybuilder and immediately dominated the arena. Just after entering the pro circuit, Wheeler won the second most prestigious bodybuilding title, Arnold Classic, in 1993. However, it was not the only title he conquered that year. Wheeler also won Ironman Pro, Grandprix France, and Grand Prix Germany that year. Moreover, he stood as runner-up in Mr. Olympia 1993 against the massive Dorian Yates.

Winning all these titles made him the bodybuilder with the best pro debut. In the 2022 interview, Wheeler recalled his 1994 car accident and his dominance before that in 1993. Wheeler said, “In 1994, I got put into the Guinness Book of World Records. That record still stands to this day. I have the best pro debut in the history of the entire sport.”

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He continued, “So whoever is gonna break my record hasn’t even turned pro yet. So, that’s how I was feeling right, and then I did something that’s never been done before. I defeated the number two and three in my two first competitions and then went on to win four pro shows and then place second in Olympia, so you know I was really full of myself.”

How did the 1994 car accident help Wheeler’s career?

After a splendid start to the pro-bodybuilding career, Flex Wheeler was above the sky. His confidence was on another level and was almost getting arrogant about the bunch of success. However, the gruesome injuries from the horrific car accident in 1994 made him reflect back on his success. 

Wheeler recalled, “The car accident, as we say in America, I was getting too big for my britches, it really humbled me.” Post that, he bounced back and won some big titles later. However, he never succeeded in winning the Mr. Olympia title, but he stood as runner-up six times and is considered a champion without that title. 

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Flex Wheeler had a very interesting and challenging journey throughout his career. From his kidney disease to the accident and other health problems, Wheeler suffered a lot. However, he came back stronger every time and added many titles to his portfolio. Do you think Wheeler’s Guinness World Record will get broken ever? Is it even possible to win as many titles in maiden competitions? Let us know your opinion in the comment section.