“Tried to Kill Myself”: Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Favorite Bodybuilder Was Told to “Keep Breathing” Under Horrid Circumstances

Throughout the history of bodybuilding, some athletes have emerged as champions. They have not only won multiple titles but have also inspired people. These champions pushed through various obstacles and persevered for long enough to become inspirations. Out of them is the legendary Arnold Schwarzenegger’s favorite – Flex Wheeler.

Arnold Schwarzenegger called Flex the greatest bodybuilder of all time. The four-time Arnold Classic champion had once come close to beating bodybuilding icon, Ronnie Coleman. While he never managed to win the Mr. Olympia title, Flex Wheeler has been an inspiration for many. The champion had fought multiple battles against health issues. While his sickness still rules over his life, the icon always finds ways to smile.

Flex Wheeler revealed that he struggled mentally during hospitalization

While the champion’s life is peppered with amazing moments, his medical ailments have unfortunately put a downer on his achievements. Flex went through blood clots and kidney failure, which pushed him to the brink of life and death. In the end, an amputated leg was the only solution to save his life.

However, his physical health took a toll on his mental health. Flex once opened up about his mental struggles and how he was almost at the edge of wanting to end it all.

Read More: I Was Flabbergasted”: Flex Wheeler Once Revealed How He Felt after Receiving Massive Honor from Arnold Schwarzenegger

Being in the hospital for so long got him down. Flex Wheeler talked to fellow bodybuilder Jay Cutler about his mental health struggles. He recalled how he tried to kill himself multiple times, even before his ailments. He revealed, “The first time I tried to kill myself, I was very dedicated to trying to take my life.” When he was in the hospital, his heart went through some serious issues. Flex recounted how he was instructed to keep breathing or he would’ve been taken off with medications. This incident jolted him back to reality.

Arnold Schwarzenegger once called Flex Wheeler the greatest!

Beyond his health issues, Flex Wheeler was hailed as the ‘Sultan of Symmetry’. His unique build and passion for the sport have made him a favorite, not only among fans but also among fellow bodybuilders. When he won the ’97 Arnold Classic, he was hailed as the best bodybuilder in history by none other than the legend Arnold Schwarzenegger himself! After this, the champion had cut out quite an image for himself in the bodybuilding industry.

While the icon revealed that at one point in his life, dark thoughts of his death plagued him, he confessed that these thoughts helped him rise from the ashes of his sadness. The star persevered and inspired many others to trust the process. While he may have a long way of recovery ahead of him, he conquers each day with his positive attitude.

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