What Happened To Ronnie Coleman? Why Is Mr Olympia In A Wheelchair And What Is His Current 'Serious' Health Condition?

Ronnie Coleman, the eight-time Mr Olympia champion widely regarded as one of the greatest bodybuilders of all time, is currently hospitalised with a serious infection that has drawn global concern.

Now aged 60, Coleman has faced years of debilitating surgeries and is often seen using a wheelchair. A recent medical emergency in late June forced him to cancel a planned appearance in the UK, raising fresh questions about his long-term health.

From Champion to Chronic Injury

Coleman's journey from police officer and accountant to bodybuilding icon is well documented. Between 1998 and 2005, he dominated the Mr Olympia competition, winning eight consecutive titles and achieving 26 professional victories. These achievements came at a significant physical cost. Years of lifting extreme weights led to lasting spinal damage.

Since 2017, Coleman has undergone 13 major surgeries. These include eight operations on his back, three on his neck, and two hip replacements. Over time, these procedures resulted in spinal fractures and reduced mobility. Today, Coleman uses crutches or a wheelchair for extended movement, although he remains physically active when possible.

Infection and Emergency Surgery

On 29 June 2025, Coleman revealed on Instagram that he had experienced a 'medical emergency' that forced him to cancel a UK tour appearance. A day later, his family confirmed he had been hospitalised with a bloodstream infection and described his health as 'complex' but 'showing signs of progress'.

Further developments emerged on 7 July, when The Sun reported that Coleman required emergency surgery after doctors discovered an additional complication linked to the infection. Although his condition remains serious, his family has expressed cautious optimism, noting that he remains in stable condition under close medical supervision. Details about the hospital or location have not been disclosed.

The news of Coleman's hospitalisation has sparked an outpouring of support across the fitness community. Fellow champion Jay Cutler and bodybuilding coach Milos Sarcev, have posted messages of encouragement. Fans from around the world have flooded his social media accounts with well wishes, sharing stories of how Coleman inspired their own fitness journeys. Many point to his discipline, humility and signature catchphrases as reasons he remains a beloved figure. The overwhelming response underscores how much Coleman still means to the bodybuilding world, even in a hospital bed.

Resilience and Rehabilitation

Despite his ongoing health problems, Coleman continues to show remarkable resilience. He often reassures fans with phrases like 'this ain't nothin but a peanut' a favourite saying from his competition days. He has also continued training with light weights and has pursued treatments such as stem-cell therapy, physical rehabilitation, and hyperbaric oxygen sessions. His goal remains to walk again by 2027.

Ronnie Coleman's life after bodybuilding highlights the physical toll of elite competition. Years of surgery and injury have altered his mobility, and his recent infection adds another serious health risk. Yet through it all, he maintains his fighting spirit. His story is not only one of physical power but also of mental strength. While his condition remains delicate, his determination offers hope for recovery and serves as an enduring source of inspiration.