Ronnie Coleman is one of the most accomplished and influential bodybuilders in the history of the sport. Known for his unmatched strength and size, he won eight consecutive Mr. Olympia titles between 1998 and 2005, cementing his place as a legend of the sport.
His story, however, also highlights the immense physical toll of professional bodybuilding, as years of extreme training left him with severe injuries, multiple surgeries, and lasting health challenges.
Ronnie Dean Coleman was born on May 13, 1964, in Bastrop, Louisiana, and grew up in Monroe in a modest household. From a young age, he was athletic and played football throughout high school.
He attended Grambling State University, earning a degree in accounting while playing middle linebacker under legendary coach Eddie Robinson. After graduation, Coleman hoped to become an accountant, but struggled to find work in his field.
1985–1989: Early Struggles And Police Career
After college, Coleman briefly worked at Domino’s Pizza, often surviving on free meals due to financial hardship.
In 1989, he became a police officer in Arlington, Texas. He served full-time until 2000 and later as a reserve officer until 2003. This period brought him stability, but also introduced him to the world of bodybuilding.
1990–1996: Bodybuilding Beginnings
A fellow officer introduced Coleman to Metroflex Gym in Arlington, owned by Brian Dobson. Dobson offered him a lifetime membership in exchange for competing in the 1990 Mr. Texas bodybuilding contest under his coaching. Coleman won the event, sparking his professional ambitions.
In 1991, he earned his pro card by winning the IFBB World Amateur Championships. Early Olympia appearances placed him outside the top 15, but victories at the Canada Pro Cup in 1995 and 1996 marked his rise in the sport.
1997: Setbacks And Turning Points
In 1997, Coleman placed third at the Ironman contest behind Lee Priest, calling it the most painful loss of his career.
He also suffered a severe herniated disc that year while squatting 600 lbs for repetitions. Despite the setback, he persevered and finished ninth at that year’s Mr. Olympia.
1998–2005: Reign As Mr. Olympia
In 1998, Coleman shocked the bodybuilding world by winning his first Mr. Olympia title. He went on to dominate the sport with eight consecutive victories through 2005, tying Lee Haney’s record.
His extraordinary strength and size defined Coleman’s reign. Training feats included:
Deadlifting 755 lbs for four reps in 2000
Squatting 800 lbs for two reps in 2003
Squatting 585 lbs for 10 reps in 2005, pushing until his nose bled
He became known as “The King” of bodybuilding, inspiring athletes worldwide.
2006–2007: Decline And Retirement
By the mid-2000s, injuries and chronic pain began limiting Coleman’s performance. In 2006, he lost the Mr. Olympia title to Jay Cutler, and in 2007, he competed for the final time, placing fourth. This marked the end of his competitive bodybuilding career.
2007–2014: Post-Retirement And Business Ventures
After retiring, Coleman built a supplement brand, Ronnie Coleman Signature Series, which grew into a successful global business. He also traveled internationally for seminars, guest appearances, and fitness expos.
During this period, however, his injuries worsened. He delayed surgery for nearly a decade, continuing to endure back pain until it became unavoidable. In 2014, he underwent his first double hip replacement.
2015–2018: Series Of Surgeries
Coleman’s health sharply declined after 2015. A long flight triggered severe back pain, leading to a 13-hour spinal surgery in December of that year. Between 2015 and 2018, he endured multiple operations:
Vertebrae fusions
Screw replacements (some of which broke)
Larger hardware was implanted to stabilize his spine.
In 2018 alone, he had three spinal surgeries.
Afterward, he admitted uncertainty about whether he would ever walk unaided again. He also revealed the immense financial burden, spending nearly $2 million on surgeries.
2019–2020: Further Complications
In 2020, Coleman underwent his second double hip replacement due to a broken socket. By this time, he had endured 13 major surgeries, nine on his back, two on his hips, and two on his neck. His entire spine was fused with 14 screws, two cages, and two 18-inch rods, leaving him reliant on crutches or a wheelchair.
That same year, on the Joe Rogan podcast, Coleman spoke candidly about his injuries, surgeries, and ongoing pain, while stressing his love for bodybuilding despite the consequences.
2020–Present: Treatments And Current Life
Coleman continues to face chronic pain and limited mobility, but he remains dedicated to training with lighter weights. He now eats three structured meals per day instead of the six or more he consumed during his competitive years.
To improve his condition, he undergoes stem cell therapy and hyperbaric oxygen treatments in Mexico. He remains optimistic, often repeating his motto: “As long as I’m alive, I have a chance.”
Today, Coleman balances family life with business ventures, public appearances, and online content. He continues to inspire fans worldwide through his story of perseverance and resilience.
Legacy And Influence
Ronnie Coleman is widely regarded as one of the greatest bodybuilders of all time. His eight Olympia titles, legendary training videos (The Unbelievable, The Cost of Redemption, On the Road), and unbelievable feats of strength made him an icon.
Even in retirement, his influence extends through his supplement company, media presence, and motivational story. Despite enduring health struggles, Coleman’s legacy is one of dedication, sacrifice, and unmatched determination – a reminder of both the rewards and the costs of pushing human limits.
FAQs
Can Ronnie Coleman Still Lift?
Yes, Ronnie Coleman can still lift, but he trains with lighter weights due to multiple back and hip surgeries. He focuses on machines, high-rep training, and rehab exercises to stay active. While he no longer lifts heavy like in his prime, he continues regular workouts.
How Much Money Has Ronnie Coleman Won?
Ronnie Coleman has won over $300,000 in prize money from Mr. Olympia titles alone, with eight consecutive wins from 1998 to 2005. His total career earnings, including endorsements, supplement lines, and business ventures, exceed several million dollars.
Who Is The Greatest Bodybuilder Of All Time?
The greatest bodybuilder of all time is often considered Arnold Schwarzenegger for his seven Mr. Olympia titles and global impact on fitness. Many also argue Ronnie Coleman, with eight Olympia wins, holds the title. The debate remains between Arnold’s influence and Coleman’s dominance.
At What Age Did Ronnie Coleman Retire From Bodybuilding?
Ronnie Coleman retired from professional bodybuilding in 2007 at age 43. His final Mr. Olympia appearance was in 2006, where he placed second after winning eight consecutive titles from 1998 to 2005.
Why Did Ronnie Coleman Have So Many Surgeries?
Ronnie Coleman had many surgeries due to severe spinal and hip injuries caused by years of lifting extreme weights. He underwent multiple back and hip operations to repair damaged discs, nerves, and joints. These surgeries aimed to restore mobility and reduce chronic pain.
How Is Ronnie Coleman Doing Now?
Ronnie Coleman is doing better today after multiple surgeries, though he still uses crutches or a wheelchair for mobility. He remains active in the fitness industry, runs his supplement company, and motivates fans through interviews and social media.
What Supplements Does Ronnie Coleman Recommend Today?
Ronnie Coleman recommends supplements such as whey protein, creatine, BCAAs, and multivitamins. Through his brand Ronnie Coleman Signature Series, he promotes products designed to support muscle growth, recovery, and overall health. He emphasizes consistency in training and nutrition over relying solely on supplements.
I'm Khirul Alam, aka NILOY FITNESS, a devoted bodybuilder and fitness expert. I write about fitness, bodybuilding, and mental health at Hercules Bodybuilding to inspire and help people reach their fitness goals. I'm committed to making a positive impact in the fitness community.
