Flex_USA_JulyAugust_2017_2

Who was the greatest
bodybuilder of all time? The
debate continues. In this
virtual posedown, Coleman
and Arnold Schwarzenegger
hit their best poses. You be
the judge.
40 FLEX | JULY/AUG ’17
So how big a wrench was it
for him to finally accept that he
would never compete again? He
answered softly and slowly: “I
didn’t want to let go. It was really
difficult for me to accept it was
over. I wanted to go on competing,
but my back injury gave me so
much pain and restricted my
movements and workload so much
that I had to face facts and let go.
I hated to admit it was over, but I
knew there was no chance I could
compete again at the highest level.
So it was hard, but on the other
hand there was a fait accompli feel
about it. There was no room for
discussion—I had no choice. I told
myself, ‘You had a fabulous career;
the truth is, you overachieved in
winning eight Olympias. You’ve
achieved a lot, and now as you
look back at your legacy you have
a lot to be proud of.’ ”
His final words, “I’m happy with
the life I’ve lived and the one I’m
living now.”
And Ronnie, we’re happy with
the joy you gave us as you ruled
your particular jungle like the lion
you are, and the ferocious and
brave lion you continue to be. The
pain is always there, but also
always there is your remarkable
spirit and fortitude. You taught us
many things in the gym and
onstage, but with your present
circumstances, with your undying
resolve, positive attitude,
and sheer will to persevere
you are teaching us all how to
embrace and live life. Thanks,
Ronnie, for the memories
and the lessons. Enjoy your
winter; you’ve earned it.
KEVIN HORTON; PER BERNAL; ART ZELLER/FITNESS PUBLICATIONS INC./COURTESY of WEIDER HEALTH & FITNESS