Ronnie Coleman's intense training methods aren't everyone's cup of tea. And even the renowned bodybuilder, Larry Wheels, got a taste of this, as he feared breaking his back while trying to train like Coleman.

Known for lifting weights that are unthinkable for most, Coleman's iconic 800 lbs squats have been a benchmark that several bodybuilders have tried to achieve. An Instagram update from Wheels on June 7 displayed him trying to test his limits with the same exercise as Coleman cheered him from behind with his signature catchphrases, "Yeah, buddy!" and "Lightweight baby."

But while Wheels squatted with much less weight (about 600 lbs) than Coleman's 800 lbs, he still feared injuring his back. The caption to his post read, "Almost breaking my back for Ronnie Coleman."

Wheels completed 13 reps with the almost 600 lbs weight, which is certainly appreciable. But the condition in which he completed his last rep might have caused several viewers to worry about his back, besides himself.

Well, while Coleman's intense weight training exercises certainly made him a legend in the bodybuilding world, they also took a massive toll on his body.

'The King's' method of training with heavy weights damaged his spine so much that he had to go under the knife about 13 times, which comprises approximately 8 to 9 major spine and lower back operations, 3 neck fusion surgeries, and 2 hip replacement surgeries. That isn't all. In July 2025, Coleman's family disclosed that he had been diagnosed with sepsis caused by an abscess in his leg.

The announcement triggered shockwaves in the community, and this is when Wheels displayed that he was a true follower of Coleman, who wanted to stand by him in tough times.

Larry Wheels' initiative to help Ronnie Coleman after he was diagnosed with sepsis

Wheels has displayed his appreciation and respect for Coleman on multiple occasions. But his heartfelt initiative to support his inspiration in his dire days stands as a worthy example of how sports can build communities where complete strangers often come to the aid of each other.

It didn't take long for Wheels to learn that Coleman had been diagnosed with sepsis. And after knowing, he wasted no time in beginning an appreciable initiative to support the 8x Mr. Olympia through his medical condition.

On July 11 2025, the very day when Coleman's family announced his medical condition, Wheels also put out an Instagram post revealing his respect for 'The King,' along with an effort to raise funds to help Coleman cover his medical costs.

He revealed his appreciation for Coleman in the initial part of the caption, writing, "Ronnie Coleman changed the game forever. 8x Mr. Olympia. The King. My biggest inspiration. Now he’s fighting for his life — and it’s our turn to show up for him."

He continued, "Ronnie is battling severe complications from sepsis — a silent killer that affects millions every year. This isn’t just about one man. It’s about honoring a legend and spreading awareness that could save lives."

Wheels concluded the caption with his fundraising efforts for Coleman. It read, "I’m asking my community to rally with me. Post your message with #RonnieStrong. Grab a shirt at ronniestrong.org – all proceeds support the cause. Share what Ronnie means to YOU. Let’s remind the world what strong really looks like."

So, it's quite apparent that the bond between Coleman and Wheels goes way beyond just supporting each other during training sessions.

However, after watching Wheels' struggle during his almost 600 lbs squats, do you think he will ever try to match Coleman's startling 800 lbs squats?

Follow Bodybuilding Bros for more

Written by

Souvik Roy

Edited by

Souvik Roy