“I Wish I Loved Myself More”: Bodybuilding Legend Who Struggled With Dyslexia as a Child Once Revealed He ‘Tried to Kill’ Himself Several Times

Every hardcore bodybuilding enthusiast understands the meaning behind muscle flex on the stage. However, the suffering and struggles frequently go unnoticed behind the attractive physique and demeanor. A similar thing happened with Flex Wheeler, a well-known figure in the shimmering bodybuilding world.

His struggles got overshadowed by his extraordinary career history and victories. During a Youtube interview, Flex stated some shocking stories behind his career, which include his traumas. Significantly, the trauma he got when he was slightly behind in defeating the legendary Ronnie Coleman from winning in 1998. 

Flex Wheeler addressing his trauma from the Bodybuilding world

For his talent, Wheeler is known as the ‘Sultan of Symmetry.’ From time to time, he was also addressed as the most challenging person in a competition. Regrettably, Wheeler experienced several health setbacks during and after his career that continued to interfere with his life. He was hospitalized in 2019 due to kidney failure, rendering him helpless.

In the video, he told Jay Cutler about his suicidal thoughts. He said, “The first time I tried to kill myself, I was very dedicated to trying to take my life. I look at pictures of myself smiling, and I wish I loved myself more. The last time I was in a hospital was just so horrible. My heart did something eight times in a row, and I was told I had to keep breathing or else I’d be taken off with the medication.”

READ MORE: ‘’It Can Kill Me, Right?’’: Bodybuilding Legend Flex Wheeler Was Left Shattered after He Was Diagnosed with the Disease That Led to His Leg Amputation in 2019

He has repeatedly stated his struggles, including his school time. During his schooling days, Wheeler struggled due to dyslexia. His dyslexia affected him in his studies, but on the other hand, he did exceptionally great in sports. He had a keen interest in martial arts and bodybuilding since childhood. 

Wheeler’s concrete-like career

Like Ronnie, Flex used to work as a police officer before putting his steps in the bodybuilding stage. After leaving his job, he devoted full time to fuel up for the competition. In 1989, Flex won the first title of the Mr. California Championship with his perfect physique. Meanwhile, he won Arnold Classic four times, following the identification of the South Beach Pro Invitational. 

After his vast accomplishments came a difficult time with health issues. He sought treatment from numerous specialists, but even the physicians were baffled about the causes. His condition deteriorated over time, and he developed nearly sudden kidney failure. Following these issues, he also underwent several treatments.

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What are your views on the concrete grit of this legend? Let us know in the comments.