In 1994, Wheeler was involved in a gruesome car accident that led to his almost career-threatening injury. Until that moment, the retired pro bodybuilding legend and record-setter was widely recognized as one of the most esteemed athletes. In fact, his aesthetic physique led fans and experts to call him The Sultan of Symmetry.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
In an interview with ArnoldSportsFestivalUK, the 4x Arnold Classic champion once revealed the mindful impact the tragedy had on him. Moreover, he opened up about his personal struggles that had been affecting his career. Let’s find out how the champion dealt with it.
Flex Wheeler’s drive toward humility
Even though the American bodybuilder never won a Mr. Olympia title throughout his career, he surely took over hearts with his unending passion. A Youtube video by ArnoldSportsFestivalUK displayed Wheeler briefly describing his whole experience. He explained himself to be conceited and arrogant at that moment. However, his father’s love and care settled him back to being humble.
View this post on Instagram
“The car accident, as we say in America, I was getting too big for my britches, it really humbled me”, admitted Wheeler. Reportedly, he was in a road crash with his Mercedes-Benz resulting in a severe neck injury. Nonetheless, he sprung back to action soon enough, adding another set of note-worthy titles to his name.
Furthermore, the 57-year-old athlete listed the epic achievements he took pride in. He said, “In 1994, I got put into the Guiness book of World Records, that record still stands to this day. I have the best pro debut in the history of the entire sport.” Wheeler implied that these feats significantly added to his self-absorption.
Flex Wheeler recalled his past
Regardless of the former bodybuilder’s dreadful injury, he swiftly recovered and did not lose his body rhythm. Moreover, he once shared a Facebook update reminiscing his past. He expressed his joy in being able to compete.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
The post read, “Not even breaking my neck C5 and C6 could keep me away from competing less than two years later… Never fight stop fighting for your dreams🖤✊🏾🖤” In addition to that, he even attached a video of him competing in one of the events.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Well, there’s a reason why he is nicknamed The Sultan of Symmetry. Additionally, the legend Arnold Schwarzenneger himself acclaimed Wheeler as one of the strongest bodybuilders he had ever seen. Even though his record was broken in 2014, he lives on as a historical athlete. Let us know where you would place him considering the strong line of legends bodybuilding has witnessed in its history!
Watch This Story | The first Netflix TV Show of Legend Arnold Schwarzenneger Could Re-establish his Action Career