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{{Short description|American bodybuilder (born 1964)}}
{{For|the American football player|Ronnie Coleman (American football)}}
{{For|the American football player|Ronnie Coleman (American football)}}
{{Use American English|date=November 2024}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=November 2024}}
{{Infobox bodybuilder
{{Infobox bodybuilder
| name = Ronnie Coleman
| name = Ronnie Coleman
| image = Ronnie Coleman 8 x Mr Olympia - 2009 - 5.png
| image = Ronnie Coleman Invited Guest.jpg
| caption =Coleman during a public appearance in 2014
| image_size =245px
| nickname = The King
| caption =Coleman posing in 2009
| birth_date = {{Birth date and age|1964|05|13}}
| birth_date = {{Birth date and age|1964|05|13}}
| birth_place =[[Monroe, Louisiana]], U.S.<ref name=bb/>
| birth_place =[[Monroe, Louisiana]], U.S.
| height = {{convert|5|ft|11|in|cm|abbr=on}} <ref name="RonnieBio">{{cite web|title=Ronnie Coleman|url=http://www.bodybuildingpro.com/ronniecoleman.html|website=bodybuildingpro.com}}</ref>
| height = {{convert|5|ft|11|in|cm|abbr=on}}<ref name="RonnieBio">{{cite web|title=Ronnie Coleman|url=http://www.bodybuildingpro.com/ronniecoleman.html|website=bodybuildingpro.com|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200808022900/http://www.bodybuildingpro.com/ronniecoleman.html|archive-date=August 8, 2020|access-date=March 20, 2022}}</ref>
| weight = Contest: {{convert|287-300|lb|kg|0|abbr=on}}<br />Off season: {{convert|315-320|lb|kg|abbr=on}}<ref name=bb>[http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/bodybuilders-ronnie.htm Ronnie Coleman]. Bodybuilding.com</ref><ref name="RonnieBio"/>
| weight = Contest: {{convert|287-300|lb|kg|0|abbr=on}}<br />Off season: {{convert|315-330|lb|kg|abbr=on}}<ref name="RonnieBio"/><ref name="bb">{{cite web |title=Ronnie Coleman Pro Bodybuilding Profile |url=https://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/bodybuilders-ronnie.htm |website=Bodybuilding.com |access-date=March 30, 2022 |language=en |date=October 11, 2015}}</ref><ref name="FitnessVolt">{{cite web |last=Hall |first=Derek |date=November 7, 2021 |url=https://fitnessvolt.com/ronnie-coleman-330lb-mass-monster/ |title=Ronnie Coleman Flashes Back To Time As A 330lb Mass Monster: 'This Is The Biggest I've Ever Been!' |website=Fitness volt |access-date=March 30, 2022}}</ref>
| firstproshow = 1992 IFBB World Amateur Championships
| firstproshow = IFBB World Amateur Championships
| firstproshowyear =
| firstproshowyear = 1992
| bestwin = IFBB Mr. Olympia 1998–2005
| bestwin = IFBB [[Mr. Olympia]]
| bestwinyear =
| bestwinyear = 1998–2005
| predecessor = [[Dorian Yates]]
| predecessor = [[Dorian Yates]]
| successor = [[Jay Cutler (bodybuilder)|Jay Cutler]]
| successor = [[Jay Cutler (bodybuilder)|Jay Cutler]]
| yesorretiredyear = 1990{{ndash}}2009
| yesorretiredyear = 1990{{ndash}}2007
}}
}}
[[File:Ronnie Coleman talks about Mr Olympia Journey - Melbourne Australia 2009.OGG|thumb|250px|right|Coleman talking about his Mr. Olympia journey in 2009]]


[[File:Ronnie Coleman talks about Mr Olympia Journey - Melbourne Australia 2009.OGG|thumb|220px|right|Coleman talking about his journey in October 2009]]
'''Ronnie Dean Coleman''' (born May 13, 1964) is a retired American [[professional bodybuilder]]. The winner of the [[Mr. Olympia]] bodybuilding title for eight years in a row, he has been called one of the greatest bodybuilders of all time.<ref>{{cite web|last=Robson |first=David |url=http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/interview-ronnie-coleman.htm |title=An Interview With The Greatest Professional Bodybuilder Of All Time: 8 Time Mr. Olympia, Ronnie "The Greatest" Coleman! |publisher=Bodybuilding.com |date=2015-02-06 |accessdate=2016-12-04}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Robson |first=David |url=http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/greatest-olympia-winner-of-all-time.htm |title=Who Is The Greatest Mr. Olympia Winner Of All Time? A Critical Review Of Past Mr. Olympia Champions! |publisher=Bodybuilding.com |date=2015-04-10 |accessdate=2016-12-04}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.allmaxnutrition.com/post-articles/news/mr-olympia-part-3-the-greatest-olympians-of-all-time/ |title=Mr. Olympia Part 3: The 6 Greatest Olympians of All Time |publisher=Allmaxnutrition.com |date= |accessdate=2016-12-04}}</ref> Alongside his eight Mr. Olympia wins as a professional bodybuilder, he held the record for most wins as an [[International Federation of BodyBuilding & Fitness|IFBB]] professional with 26 (since broken by [[Dexter Jackson (bodybuilder)|Dexter Jackson]]).
'''Ronald Dean Coleman''' (born May 13, 1964) is an American retired [[professional bodybuilder]], who is widely regarded as the greatest [[Bodybuilding|bodybuilder]] of all-time.<ref>{{cite web|last=Robson |first=David |url=http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/interview-ronnie-coleman.htm |title=An Interview with the Greatest Professional Bodybuilder Of All Time: 8 Time Mr. Olympia, Ronnie "The Greatest" Coleman! |publisher=Bodybuilding.com |date=February 6, 2015 |access-date=December 4, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Robson |first=David |url=http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/greatest-olympia-winner-of-all-time.htm |title=Who Is The Greatest Mr. Olympia Winner Of All Time? A Critical Review Of Past Mr. Olympia Champions! |publisher=Bodybuilding.com |date=April 10, 2015 |access-date=December 4, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.allmaxnutrition.com/post-articles/news/mr-olympia-part-3-the-greatest-olympians-of-all-time/ |title=Mr. Olympia Part 3: The 6 Greatest Olympians of All Time |publisher=Allmaxnutrition.com |date=August 21, 2013 |access-date=December 4, 2016 |archive-date=November 23, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201123200929/https://allmaxnutrition.com/post-articles/news/mr-olympia-part-3-the-greatest-olympians-of-all-time/ |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/other-sports/2-7-kg-chicken-per-day-0-3-body-fat-how-ronnie-coleman-prepared-for-mr-olympia/story-hzMv8HSN5YAhGou0qQXHaI.html |title=Eight-time Mr. Olympia Ronnie Coleman |author=Yash Bhati |website= Hindustan Times |date=June 11, 2020 |access-date=May 24, 2022}}</ref> Known as "'''The King'''",<ref>{{cite magazine |last1=McNulty |first1=Rose |date=November 5, 2018 |title=Ronnie Coleman's Documentary Is Now Available on Netflix |url=https://www.muscleandfitness.com/athletes-celebrities/news/ronnie-coleman-s-documentary-now-available-netflix/ |magazine=Muscle & Fitness |access-date=July 14, 2024}}</ref> Coleman shares the all-time record for most [[Mr. Olympia]] titles at eight with [[Lee Haney]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Joe Weider's Olympia Fitness & Performance Weekend |url=https://mrolympia.com/mr-olympia |work=Mr. Olumpia |access-date=July 14, 2024}}</ref> The winner of 26 [[International Federation of BodyBuilding & Fitness|IFBB]] professional titles including the Mr. Olympia for eight consecutive years, he is also renowned for his combination of [[Muscle hypertrophy|size]] and [[Lean body mass|conditioning]],<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://localconnecticut.net/ronnie-coleman-biography-mr-olympia-8-times-largest-successful-bodybuilding-career/ |title=Ronnie Coleman Biography: Mr. Olympia, 8 Times! Largest Successful Bodybuilding Career! |author=Localconnecticut.net |website= Localconnecticut.net |date=October 10, 2021 |access-date=May 24, 2022}}</ref> dominant body-parts<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://revolutionaryprogramdesign.com/ronnie-coleman-back/#:~:text=Ronnie%20had%20many%20standout%20body,part%20was%20his%20upper%20back. |title=The Ronnie Coleman Back Workout! |author= Dr. Mike Jansen |website= Revolutionaryprogramdesign.com |date=May 24, 2022 |access-date=May 24, 2022}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://revolutionaryprogramdesign.com/ronnie-coleman-legs/ |title=The Ronnie Coleman Leg Workout! |author=Dr. Mike Jansen |website= Revolutionaryprogramdesign.com |date=May 24, 2022 |access-date=May 24, 2022}}</ref> and extremely heavy [[Weight training|workouts]],<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.muscleandfitness.com/flexonline/training/10-training-tips-legendary-ronnie-coleman/ |title=THE LEGENDARY RONNIE COLEMAN |author= Greg Merritt |website= Muscle and Fitness |date=September 11, 2021 |access-date=May 24, 2022}}</ref> making him the strongest Mr. Olympia of all-time.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://fitnessvolt.com/strongest-bodybuilders/ |title=12 Strongest Bodybuilders Of All Time |author= Tom Miller |website= Fitnessvolt.com |date=February 18, 2022 |access-date=May 24, 2022}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.muscleandfitness.com/flexonline/ifbb/9-strongest-bodybuilders-all-time/ |title=THE 9 STRONGEST BODYBUILDERS OF ALL TIME |author= Greg Merritt |website= Muscleandfitness.com |date=May 24, 2022 |access-date=May 24, 2022}}</ref>


Coleman was inducted into the [[International Sports Hall of Fame]] in 2016<ref>{{cite web |title=2016 International Sports Hall of Fame Inductees |url=https://sportshof.org/2016-hall-of-fame/ |website=www.sportshof.org |author=Dr. Robert Goldman | date=March 15, 2016 | access-date=July 14, 2023}}</ref> and was bestowed with the 'Arnold Classic Lifetime Achievement Award' in 2021.<ref>{{cite web |title=Eight-Time Mr. Olympia Ronnie Coleman Receives Arnold Classic Lifetime Achievement Award |url=https://barbend.com/ronnie-coleman-2021-arnold-classic-lifetime-achievement-award/ |website=www.barbend.com |author=Roger Lockridge | date=September 26, 2021 | access-date=July 14, 2023}}</ref>
==Biography==
[[File:Ronnie Coleman 8 x Mr Olympia - 2009 - 7.png|thumb|250px|right|Coleman in 2009.]]
Coleman graduated [[Magna cum laude|cum laude]] from [[Grambling State University]] (GSU) in 1984 with a [[Bachelor of Science|BSc]] in [[accounting]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.mrofansite.com/coleman.html |title=Ronnie Coleman Stars of Bodybuilding |publisher=Mrofansite.com |date= |accessdate=2016-12-04 |deadurl=bot: unknown |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20131210043039/http://www.mrofansite.com/coleman.html |archivedate=2013-12-10 |df= }}</ref> While at the university, he played [[American football]] as a middle linebacker with the GSU Tigers under coach [[Eddie Robinson (Grambling football coach)|Eddie Robinson]]. After graduation, he became a police officer in [[Arlington, Texas]], where he served as an officer from 1989 to 2000 and a reserve officer until 2003.<ref>{{cite web|last=Campbell|first=Elizabeth|title=Appeals court rules Arlington sperm donor doesn't owe child support|date=April 10, 2012|url=http://www.star-telegram.com/2012/04/09/3871461/appeals-court-rules-arlington.html#storylink=cpy|work=star-telegram.com|accessdate=13 September 2013}}</ref>


==Early life==
Coleman's fellow officer Gustavo Arlotta suggested he attend the Metroflex gym, owned by amateur bodybuilder Brian Dobson. Dobson offered Coleman a free lifetime membership if he allowed Dobson to train him for the upcoming Mr. Texas bodybuilding competition that year.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H7L3KwUDjpQ |title=Ronnie Coleman Old Footage with Brian Dobson |publisher=YouTube |date=2012-07-27 |accessdate=2016-12-04}}</ref> After training for Mr. Texas, Coleman won first place in both the heavyweight and overall categories. He also defeated Dobson himself. Coleman won his first competition as a professional, the Canada Pro Cup, in 1995. The following year, he won the contest again, followed by a first place win in the 1997 Russian Grand Prix.
Ronnie Dean Coleman was born on May 13, 1964, in [[Monroe, Louisiana]]<ref name="bb"/> to Jessie Coleman and Jessie Benton Coleman. He was raised in a household that emphasized hard work and commitment. He graduated [[cum laude]] from [[Grambling State University]] in 1984 with a [[Bachelor of Science|BSc]] in accounting.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.mrofansite.com/coleman.html |title=Ronnie Coleman Stars of Bodybuilding |publisher=Mrofansite.com |access-date=December 4, 2016 |url-status=bot: unknown |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131210043039/http://www.mrofansite.com/coleman.html |archive-date=December 10, 2013 |date=September 16, 2016 }}</ref> While there, he played [[American football|football]] as a [[Linebacker|middle linebacker]] with the [[Grambling State Tigers football|Grambling State Tigers]] under [[College Football Hall of Fame|Hall of Fame]] coach [[Eddie Robinson (Grambling football coach)|Eddie Robinson]].


After graduation, he failed to find work as an accountant and instead went to work at [[Domino's Pizza]], where he would eat the complimentary pizza every day due to being so poor that he could barely afford to eat outside of work.<ref name="RonnieTheKing">''Ronnie Coleman: The King'' (2018)</ref>
Coleman's success as a professional bodybuilder has led to many product endorsements and other opportunities in his career. He has visited places such as Brazil, Austria, China, and Australia.<ref>{{cite web|last=Donnelly|first=Allan|title=FLEXONLINE INTERVIEW: RONNIE COLEMAN|date=September 19, 2008|url=http://www.flexonline.com/general-news/flexonline-interview-ronnie-coleman|work=flexonline.com|accessdate=13 September 2013}}</ref> He also makes many guest appearances at gym openings all around the U.S. He has made three training videos: ''The Unbelievable'',<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000B6KRC4 |title=Ronnie Coleman: The Unbelievable!: Ronnie Coleman, Mitsuru: Movies & TV |publisher=Amazon.com |date= |accessdate=2016-12-04}}</ref> ''The Cost of Redemption'',<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.amazon.com/Ronnie-Coleman-The-Cost-Redemption/dp/B000B6KRCE |title=Ronnie Coleman: The Cost of Redemption: Ronnie Coleman, Mitsuru: Movies & TV |publisher=Amazon.com |date= |accessdate=2016-12-04}}</ref> and ''On the Road''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.amazon.com/Ronnie-Coleman-On-Road/dp/B000E3LGJW |title=Ronnie Coleman: On the Road: Ronnie Coleman: Movies & TV |publisher=Amazon.com |date= |accessdate=2016-12-04}}</ref> In these videos, he gives tips for more experienced weightlifters, while warning against overexertion and improper form.


He then became a police officer in [[Arlington, Texas]], serving as an officer from 1989 to 2000 and a reserve officer until 2003.<ref>{{cite web|last=Campbell|first=Elizabeth|title=Appeals court rules Arlington sperm donor doesn't owe child support|date=April 10, 2012|url=http://www.star-telegram.com/2012/04/09/3871461/appeals-court-rules-arlington.html#storylink=cpy|work=star-telegram.com|access-date=September 13, 2013|archive-date=December 3, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131203015538/http://www.star-telegram.com/2012/04/09/3871461/appeals-court-rules-arlington.html#storylink=cpy|url-status=dead}}</ref>
When training, Coleman prefers to use free weights rather than machines in order to maximize his flexibility and range of motion. He lifts weights four days per week, having cut down due to touring and competing at fewer events. He supports the Inner City Games, an organization co-founded by [[Arnold Schwarzenegger]] in 1991. He was the recipient of the 2001 Admiral in the Texas Navy Certificate Award from Texas Governor [[Rick Perry]] for outstanding achievements in bodybuilding and for the promotion of physical fitness.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prweb.com/releases/2011/5/prweb8462167.htm |title='&#39;Ronnie Coleman Launches Enterprise Venture'&#39; |publisher=Prweb.com |date=2011-05-24 |accessdate=2016-12-04}}</ref>


== Bodybuilding career ==
In 2011, he launched Ronnie Coleman Signature Series, a company that provides sports nutrition and wellness products for bodybuilders and other athletes.<ref>{{cite web|title=About Ronnie Coleman |url=http://www.ronniecoleman.net/index.php?route=information/about|work=ronniecoleman.net|accessdate=11 April 2018}}</ref>
=== 1990 to 1991 ===
Coleman's fellow officer Gustavo Arlotta suggested he attend the 'Metroflex Gym', owned by amateur bodybuilder Brian Dobson. Dobson offered Coleman a free lifetime membership if he allowed Dobson to train him for the upcoming 1990 Mr. Texas bodybuilding competition.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H7L3KwUDjpQ |title=Ronnie Coleman Old Footage with Brian Dobson |publisher=YouTube |date=July 27, 2012 |access-date=December 4, 2016}}</ref> After training for Mr. Texas, Coleman won first place in both the heavyweight and overall categories. He also managed to defeat Dobson himself. Then he participated at the 1990 [[National Physique Committee|NPC]] Nationals, winning 3rd place at the Heavyweight division.


Following year, Coleman turned pro<ref name="comphistory">{{cite web|url=https://barbend.com/ronnie-coleman/ |title=Ronnie Coleman — Bodybuilding Career, Competition History, and Biography |publisher=Roger Lockridge for www.barbend.com |date=August 16, 2023 |access-date=October 18, 2024}}</ref> and emerged 4th place at the 1991 NPC Nationals Heavyweight division. He also decisively won 1991 [[International Fitness and Bodybuilding Federation|IFBB]] World Amateur Championships's Heavyweight division.
After several surgeries, Coleman revealed that he has only been able to train to prevent atrophy.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.menshealth.com/trending-news/a19056896/ronnie-coleman-is-still-hitting-the-gym-despite-several-surgeries/|title=Ronnie Coleman Is Still Hitting the Gym Despite Several Surgeries|website=[[Men's Health]]|author=Jack Crosbie|date=3 March 2018|accessdate=11 April 2018}}</ref>

=== 1992 to 1994 ===
Coleman's rise to the top of bodybuilding was relatively slow. In his first participation at the [[Mr. Olympia]] contest: [[1992 Mr. Olympia]] held in [[Helsinki]], [[Finland]] he ended up becoming the last (16th place). He also emerged 14th at the 1992 Night of Champions and 11th at the 1992 Chicago Pro Championships.

In 1993 Coleman did not take part in Mr. Olympia, but managed a 6th place at 1993 Chicago Pro Championships, 4th place at 1993 IFBB French Grand Prix, 6th place at 1993 IFBB German Grand Prix and 6th place in 1993 Niagara Falls Pro.

In [[1994 Mr. Olympia]] held in [[Atlanta]], [[Georgia (U.S. state)|Georgia]], Coleman ended up being the 15th. The top athletes were continuously improving with [[Dorian Yates]] taking bodybuilding to the next level, and Coleman also increased the weights and intensity of his workouts. He also constantly participated in [[powerlifting]] competitions.<ref>{{Citation|last=Ronnie Coleman|title=Ronnie Coleman's First Power Lifting Competition|date=January 29, 2014|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BuzeyFIYMSM|access-date=February 15, 2019}}</ref> In the same year, he secured 3rd place at 1994 IFBB French Grand Prix, 3rd place at 1994 IFBB German Grand Prix and 4th place at 1994 San Jose Pro Invitational.<ref name="comphistory"/>

=== 1995 to 1997 ===
In 1995 Coleman won his first pro show, winning 1995 Canada Pro Cup. He also improved on his placement at Mr. Olympia, emerging 11th at [[1995 Mr. Olympia]] held in Atlanta, Georgia. He also secured 4th place at 1995 IFBB French Grand Prix, 6th place at 1995 IFBB Russian Grand Prix, 3rd place at 1995 IFBB Ukrainian Grand Prix, 6th place at 1995 Houston Pro Championships and 3rd place at 1995 Night of Champions.<ref name="comphistory"/>

In [[1996 Mr. Olympia]] held in [[Chicago]], [[Illinois]], Coleman emerged 6th, winning $12,000 in the process. He also won 1996 Canada Pro Cup. Furthermore, he also secured 2nd place at 1996 Florida Pro Invitational, 5th place at 1996 IFBB English Grand Prix, 5th place at 1996 IFBB German Grand Prix, 5th place at 1996 IFBB Spanish Grand Prix and 2nd place at 1996 Night of Champions.

Around this time, Coleman started to compete prolifically, traveling around the world and taking trains instead of flights because it was all what he could afford, and kept up with the top athletes. He won 1997 IFBB Russian Grand Prix and came 3rd at 1997 Ironman Pro Invitational and 1997 IFBB Finnish Grand Prix. However, at [[1997 Mr. Olympia]] held in [[Long Beach, California|Long Beach]], [[California]] he was dropped to 9th place.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web|url=http://www.getbig.com/results/e-mroly.htm|title=Mr. Olympia Contest Results|website=www.getbig.com|access-date=February 15, 2019}}</ref> He also secured 4th at 1997 Arnold Classic and 1997 IFBB Czech Grand Prix, 5th at 1997 IFBB English Grand Prix and 1997 IFBB German Grand Prix, 6th at 1997 IFBB Hungarian Grand Prix and 1997 San Jose Pro Invitational, and 7th at 1997 IFBB Spanish Grand Prix.<ref name="comphistory"/>

=== 1998 ===
In 1998, Coleman who had made dramatic improvements to his physique came to the 1998 IFBB Finnish Grand Prix with one of his best physiques ever.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xi835OUGOOU |title=Was The 1998 Finland Grand Prix RONNIE COLEMAN At His All-Time Best? |publisher=Mikey's Iron Rage |date=June 2, 2020 |access-date=October 18, 2024}}</ref> He defeated [[Kevin Levrone]] and [[Nasser El Sonbaty]] to win the title and started getting recognition for his 'wide and thick' back development. Both of Coleman's back poses: rear double biceps and rear lat spread were recognized as well as his front double biceps pose from this competition ranks among the best ever. He continued his success, also winning 1998 IFBB German Grand Prix, 1998 Toronto Pro and 1998 Night of Champions. Levrone stated ''"It was the beginning of the end, for me and every other bodybuilder"''.

When [[Dorian Yates]] won his final title before retiring the previous year, 1998 opened the door for a new Mr. Olympia champion. [[Flex Wheeler]] was favored to become the titleholder, with predominant competition coming from Levrone, El Sonbaty and [[Shawn Ray]]. However, Coleman, whose quadruple victories already in the calendar year had considerably elevated his esteem and brought further improvements, weighing {{convert|248|lb|kg|abbr=on|1|}} on stage, shredded to the bone, to defeat Wheeler, El Sonbaty, Levrone and Ray to win the [[1998 Mr. Olympia]] held at [[Madison Square Garden]] in [[New York City]], [[New York (state)|New York]]. He won a cash prize of $110,000.<ref name=":0" /> Judges praised Coleman's superior back development, v-taper, conditioning and the posing routine which all aided his victory.<ref>{{Cite web |last=McGough |first=Peter |date= December 14, 2022|title=The 1998 Mr. Olympia |url=https://thebarbell.com/1998-mr-olympia/ |access-date=November 3, 2023 |website=The Barbell |language=en-US}}</ref>

=== 1999 ===
In 1999, Coleman went up against one of the most iconic and toughest lineups in bodybuilding history at 1999 IFBB English Grand Prix, where he emerged victorious after defeating Wheeler, Levrone, [[Dexter Jackson (bodybuilder)|Dexter Jackson]], [[Milos Sarcev]], El Sonbaty and [[Markus Rühl]] who all came in with some of their best physiques ever. The competition went on to be known as '' 'The Greatest Show on Earth' ''<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/99_british_grand_prix.htm |title=Caught Somewhere In Time: The 1999 British Grand Prix! |publisher=Kerry Kayes for www.bodybuilding.com |date=January 14, 2019 |access-date=October 18, 2024}}</ref> and the final trio: Coleman, Wheeler and Levrone in this contest is regarded as the best top three ever on stage at the same time. Coleman's side chest pose from this competition ranks among the best ever.

At [[1999 Mr. Olympia]] held at the iconic [[Mandalay Bay Arena]] in [[Las Vegas Valley|Las Vegas]], [[Nevada]], Coleman successfully defended his title after defeating the likes of Wheeler, [[Chris Cormier]], Levrone, Ray, El Sonbaty, [[Paul Dillett]], [[Lee Priest]], [[Mike Matarazzo]], Jean Pierre Fux and [[Pavol Jablonický]]. He was heavier than last year at {{convert|257|lb|kg|abbr=on|1|}} but brought same level of dryness and conditioning.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gmv.com.au/default.asp?pageid=products&template=PRODUCTCAT&catid=30&prodid=1897&site=1 |title=1999 Mr Olympia Pump Room & Behind the Scenes |publisher=www.gmv.com.au |date=March 14, 1999 |access-date=October 18, 2024}}</ref> Several experts and fellow IFBB pro's including Milos Sarcev recognize this version to be Coleman's best physique. He also won 1999 World Pro Championships and still was working full-time at Arlington Police Department, being 2x Mr. Olympia champion.

=== 2000 ===
Coleman started 2000 with easily winning 2000 IFBB English Grand Prix and 2000 World Pro Championships. At [[2000 Mr. Olympia]] held again at Mandalay Bay Arena in Las Vegas, Coleman won his third consecutive title with it being also the third consecutive time he secured perfect scores following 1998 and 1999 (5 points in each four rounds during prejudging and finals for an ultimate score of 20). Levrone emerged second, Wheeler third, Ray fourth and El Sonbaty fifth. Coleman also became only the sixth person after [[Sergio Oliva]], [[Arnold Schwarzenegger]], [[Frank Zane]], Haney and Yates to win 3 Mr. Olympia titles in a row.

=== 2001 ===
In 2001, Coleman started the year with winning the [[Arnold Sports Festival|2001 Arnold Classic]] with arguably the most ripped conditioning he bought to a stage. In addition to the prize money, he won a [[Hummer H1]]. Cormier emerged 2nd while [[Dennis James (bodybuilder)|Dennis James]] took 3rd. Then he proceeded to win 2001 IFBB New Zealand Grand Prix.

At [[2001 Mr. Olympia]] held again at Mandalay Bay Arena in Las Vegas, he faced a formidable challenge from upcoming [[Jay Cutler (bodybuilder)|Jay Cutler]], but successfully defended his title with a four-point lead to win his 4th consecutive Mr. Olympia title. Coleman also made history by becoming the first person in history to win both Mr. Olympia and Arnold Classic in the same calendar year.<ref name="comphistory2">{{cite web|url=https://www.musclememory.com/show.php?a=Coleman,+Ronnie |title=Ronnie Coleman |publisher=www.musclememory.com |date=October 3, 2012 |access-date=October 18, 2024}}</ref>

=== 2002 ===
As advised by one of the judges the previous year, Coleman tried to come a bit leaner for the [[2002 Mr. Olympia]]. Therefore instead of his standard 12-week cutting down period, he started 16 weeks prior which resulted in a slight loss of muscle mass which was clearly evident in his arms and legs. However, he edged Levrone to win his fifth consecutive title, in what happens to be a very close call according to many experts and critiques. Cormier took 3rd, Jackson took 4th and [[Günter Schlierkamp]] took 5th place. Bodyonics Pinnacle company gifted Coleman a [[Cadillac Escalade#Second generation (2001)|Cadillac Escalade]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bodybuildingpro.com/mrolympiareport2002.html|title=Mr. Olympia Report 2002|publisher=bodybuildingpro.com|access-date=December 23, 2012|archive-date=November 11, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121111154130/http://bodybuildingpro.com/mrolympiareport2002.html|url-status=dead}}</ref>

Coleman also won 2002 IFBB Dutch Grand Prix but came 2nd to Schlierkamp at 2002 Show of Strength Pro Championships, which was the only time he was defeated during his Olympia reign.

=== 2003 ===
In 2003, Coleman made massive improvements to his physique and came in for [[2003 Mr. Olympia]] at a staggering {{convert|292|lb|kg|abbr=on|1|}} on-stage weight and ripped. Cutler, who had taken last year off described, even though he came well prepared and with confidence to dethrone the champion, the minute Coleman took his clothes off backstage, his mouth dropped and he knew it was game-over. Levrone quoted ''"Ronnie Coleman had reached a point, where he didn't look human backstage. It looked like a [[Gorilla|Silverback Gorilla]]. 'It' was part human, part gorilla".'' Jackson described him as the most dominant physique in history to ever grace a bodybuilding stage. Wheeler described Coleman's rear double biceps and rear lat spread poses were perfection from top to bottom and ranked the two poses among the greatest ever. Olympia head-judge Steve Weinberger said that Coleman brought a level of muscularity the world has never seen before or since. Coleman secured a perfect score and convincingly won his 6th title, tying his predecessor Yates as the joint-third most decorated Olympian in history. He also won his second Cadillac Escalade courtesy of Pinnacle Supplements.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.femalemuscle.com/wilkins/2003_olympia.html|title=The 2003 Mr. Olympia: Coleman Wows Sold Out Crowd!|date=October 26, 2003|publisher=femalemuscle.com|access-date=December 23, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120207065735/http://www.femalemuscle.com/wilkins/2003_olympia.html|archive-date=February 7, 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref>

Coleman did one more show that year, 2003 IFBB Russian Grand Prix, coming in even bigger than he came for the Olympia. It was another easy victory, taking Coleman's IFBB winning tally to 20,<ref name="comphistory2"/> equaling Levrone.

=== 2004 ===
At [[2004 Mr. Olympia]], for the first time judges initiated a challenge round, where the top 6 finalists called out each other for a one-on-one pose comparison of their choice. Overall scores after round three was discarded, and the new challenge round standings were used to decide the winner. Coleman who came even bigger at {{convert|296|lb|kg|abbr=on|1|}}, out-weighing even {{convert|285|lb|kg|abbr=on|1|}} Markus Rühl won the competition tying Schwarzenegger for 7 titles, becoming the joint-second most decorated Olympian in history. Cutler emerged 2nd to Coleman for the third time and [[Gustavo Badell]] secured 3rd place, followed by Jackson, Rühl and Schlierkamp.

Next came a phase where Coleman reached his heaviest ever on-stage weight, coming in between {{convert|301-305|lb|kg|abbr=on|1|}} for 2004 IFBB English Grand Prix, 2004 IFBB Dutch Grand Prix and 2004 IFBB Russian Grand Prix, winning all three and surpassing [[Vince Taylor (bodybuilder)|Vince Taylor]] to become the most decorated professional bodybuilder of all-time.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://fitnessvolt.com/16747/vince-taylor/ |title=Vince Taylor – Complete Profile: Height, Workout And Diet |publisher=www.fitnessvolt.com |date=December 11, 2023 |access-date=October 18, 2024}}</ref>

=== 2005 ===
At [[2005 Mr. Olympia]], announcer [[Mike Adamle]] introduced Coleman who was dressed in a medieval King's costume with the words '' "On the Seventh day God didn't rest, on the Seventh day God created Ronnie Coleman..." '' as Coleman held off Cutler, Badell, Schlierkamp, [[Víctor Martínez (bodybuilder)|Víctor Martínez]] and James in a challenge round judged by previous rivals to win his 8th consecutive Mr. Olympia, equaling Haney as the most decorated Olympian in history.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://ifbbtv.com/video3/newsdesk_info.php/newsdesk_id/11|title=2005 Olympia Prize Money Breakdown|year=2005|publisher=ifbbtv.com}}</ref> As soon as he was crowned the 8x time champion, IFBB president [[Ben Weider]] indicated that Coleman goes down in history as the greatest Mr. Olympia of all-time. Coleman won his biggest prize money of $150,000 for his victory.

=== 2006 to 2007 ===
Coleman's dominant reign as Mr. Olympia finally came to an end in [[2006 Mr. Olympia]] where four-times his runner-up Jay Cutler edged him to earn his first title. Coleman came with the biggest upper arms he ever posed on stage at over {{convert|24|in|cm|0|abbr=on}} in contest shape, but his clearly visible [[Latissimus dorsi muscle|lat]] asymmetry cost him a 9th title. Coleman made his final appearance at [[2007 Mr. Olympia]] where he placed 4th, and soon announced his retirement.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.getbig.com/results/e-mroly.htm|title=Mr. Olympia Contest Results|date=September 30, 2012|publisher=getbig.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Merritt |first=Greg |date= October 21, 2023|title=The 2007 Mr. Olympia |url=https://thebarbell.com/2007-mr-olympia/ |access-date=November 5, 2023 |website=The Barbell |language=en-US}}</ref>

==Legacy and in popular culture==
[[File:Ronnie Coleman 8 x Mr Olympia - 2009 - 7.png|thumb|220px|right|Coleman guest posing in October 2009, two years after his retirement]]
Movie director Mitsuru Okabe produced training videos of Coleman, including ''The First Training Video'' (1998), ''The Unbelievable'' (2000),<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000B6KRC4 |title=Ronnie Coleman: The Unbelievable!: Ronnie Coleman, Mitsuru: Movies & TV |website=Amazon |access-date=December 4, 2016}}</ref> ''The Cost of Redemption'' (2003),<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.amazon.com/Ronnie-Coleman-The-Cost-Redemption/dp/B000B6KRCE |title=Ronnie Coleman: The Cost of Redemption: Ronnie Coleman, Mitsuru: Movies & TV |website=Amazon |date=November 8, 2005 |access-date=December 4, 2016}}</ref>, ''Relentless'' (2006) and ''On the Road''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.amazon.com/Ronnie-Coleman-On-Road/dp/B000E3LGJW |title=Ronnie Coleman: On the Road: Ronnie Coleman: Movies & TV |website=Amazon |date=March 7, 2006 |access-date=December 4, 2016}}</ref> With his high-pitched voice, many of the lifts and vocal gimmicks Coleman popularized in them have become commonplace in the global physical culture community, especially after the advent of [[viral video]]s.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://ronniecoleman.net/products/signature-phrase-coffee-mug-white |title=Ronnie Coleman Signature Series – Yeah Buddy Light Weight Baby Coffee Mug – White |publisher=Ronnie Coleman Signature Series |access-date=May 29, 2019}}</ref> The most popular of these, which he regularly shouted to himself as a form of self-encouragement, include ''"Yeah buddy!"'', ''"Light weight, baby!"'', ''"Ain't nothin' but a peanut!"'', ''"Nothin' to it, but to do it!"'', ''"Everybody wants to be a bodybuilder, but nobody wants to lift no heavy-ass weights"''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nteoS7bcIIQ |title=YEAH BUDDY - How the Phrase Started - Ronnie Coleman |publisher=YouTube |date=February 22, 2016 |access-date=May 29, 2019}}</ref>

Coleman's success as a professional bodybuilder has led to many product endorsements and other opportunities in his career, which he has traveled the world to promote.<ref>{{cite web|last=Donnelly|first=Allan|title=Flexonline Interview: Ronnie Coleman|date=September 19, 2008|url=http://www.flexonline.com/general-news/flexonline-interview-ronnie-coleman|work=flexonline.com|access-date=September 13, 2013}}</ref> He has made many guest appearances around the world. Coleman was the recipient of the 2001 Admiral in the Texas Navy Certificate Award from Texas Governor [[Rick Perry]] for outstanding achievements in bodybuilding and for the promotion of physical fitness.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.prweb.com/releases/2011/5/prweb8462167.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110527084859/http://www.prweb.com/releases/2011/5/prweb8462167.htm|url-status=dead|archive-date=May 27, 2011|title=Ronnie Coleman Launches Enterprise Venture|date=May 24, 2011|publisher=Prweb.com|access-date=December 4, 2016}}</ref> He was inducted into the [[International Sports Hall of Fame]] in 2016, and was awarded the 'Arnold Schwarzenegger Lifetime Achievement Award' in 2021. Coleman is a supporter of [[Inner-City Games]], co-founded by Schwarzenegger in 1991.

In 2011, Coleman launched Ronnie Coleman Signature Series (RCSS), a supplement company that provides sports nutrition and wellness products for bodybuilders and other athletes.<ref>{{cite web|title=About Ronnie Coleman |url=http://www.ronniecoleman.net/index.php?route=information/about|work=ronniecoleman.net|access-date=April 11, 2018}}</ref> Products such as 'King Whey' [[whey protein]], 'King Mass' [[Weight gain|weight gainer]] and pre-workout product 'Yeah buddy' are among some of the bestsellers.

In 2018, [[Vlad Yudin]] documented Coleman's life and career in the [[Netflix]] documentary ''Ronnie Coleman: The King''.<ref name="RonnieTheKing" /> For the film's credits, rapper [[Quan (rapper)|Quan]] made a song called "Flexin' on Them (Ronnie Coleman)" inspired by Coleman's bodybuilding career.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.amazon.com/Flexin-on-Them-Ronnie-Coleman/dp/B07DBTDVXJ|title=Flexin on Them Ronnie Coleman|date=June 22, 2018|website=Amazon Music}}</ref>


==Personal life==
==Personal life==
In 1992, Coleman met [[Ondrea Gates|Vickie Gates]] (who later went on to become 3x times IFBB Ms. International champion) at a local [[GNC (company)|GNC]] store. She was his girlfriend for nearly 7 years.<ref>{{cite web|title=Vickie Gates, 3 time Ms. International |url=http://www.vickiegatesonline.com/profile.htm|work=NPC News|access-date=September 13, 2024|date=June 6, 2002|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050308182115/http://www.vickiegatesonline.com/profile.htm |archive-date=March 8, 2005 }}</ref> In 1998, Coleman met French-Lebanese personal trainer Rouaida Christine Achkar at a sports exposition in [[Paris]],<ref>{{cite web|title=MEET THE MRS.|url=http://www.flexonline.com/general-news/meet-mrs|work=[[Flex (magazine)|Flex Online]]|access-date=September 13, 2013|date=January 14, 2007}}</ref> and they got married in 2007. However, they divorced soon after.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Waruguru |first=Grace |date=January 27, 2022 |title=Who is Ronnie Coleman's wife? Does the bodybuilder have any kids? |url=https://www.tuko.co.ke/facts-lifehacks/celebrity-biographies/440260-who-ronnie-colemans-wife-does-bodybuilder-kids/ |access-date=October 21, 2022 |website=Tuko.co.ke - Kenya news. |language=en}}</ref>
Coleman is a devout [[Christian]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Robson|first=David|title=An Interview With Seven-Time Mr. Olympia Ronnie Coleman|url=http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/drobson91.htm|work=bodybuilding.com|accessdate=13 September 2013|date=July 20, 2005}}</ref>


In 2016, Coleman married his long time girlfriend, American personal trainer Susan Williamson.<ref>{{cite web|title=AFTER RECOVERY RONNIE COLEMAN MAKES MOVES TO ENTER NEXT PHASE OF HIS LIFE|url=http://generationiron.com/after-recovery-ronnie-coleman-makes-moves-to-enter-next-phase-of-his-life/|work=[[Generation Iron]]|access-date=September 13, 2016|date=April 11, 2016}}</ref> They reside in [[Arlington, Texas]], along with their four daughters.<ref>{{cite web |last=Singh |first=Kunal |date=March 13, 2024 |url=https://www.sportskeeda.com/us/olympics/does-ronnie-coleman-children-all-know-bodybuilder-s-family |title=Does Ronnie Coleman have children? All we know about the bodybuilder's family |work=Sports Keeda |access-date=November 1, 2024}}</ref><ref name="RonnieTheKing"/> Coleman is a devout Christian and a family man.<ref>{{cite web|last=Robson|first=David|title=An Interview With Seven-Time Mr. Olympia Ronnie Coleman|url=http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/drobson91.htm|work=bodybuilding.com|access-date=September 13, 2013|date=July 20, 2005}}</ref>
Coleman met Lebanese-French [[personal trainer]] Rouaida Christine Achkar on March 22, 1998 at a [[Paris]] sports exposition.<ref>{{cite web|title=MEET THE MRS.|url=http://www.flexonline.com/general-news/meet-mrs|work=[[Flex (magazine)|Flex Online]]|accessdate=13 September 2013|date=January 14, 2007}}</ref> They married on December 28, 2007 in [[Beirut]] but divorced shortly after.{{cn|date=May 2018}}


==Nutrition==
On April 11, 2016, Coleman married his long-time girlfriend, personal trainer Susan Williamson.<ref>{{cite web|title=AFTER RECOVERY RONNIE COLEMAN MAKES MOVES TO ENTER NEXT PHASE OF HIS LIFE|url=http://generationiron.com/after-recovery-ronnie-coleman-makes-moves-to-enter-next-phase-of-his-life/|work=[[Generation Iron]]|accessdate=13 September 2016|date=April 11, 2016}}</ref>
Coleman was noted for eating around 6,000 calories a day during his prime.<ref>{{cite web |last=Wilson |first=Joe |date=August 30, 2024 |url=https://www.dmoose.com/blogs/athlete-profile-and-interview/what-was-ronnie-coleman-workout-split-and-routine-bodybuilding#:~:text=He%20consumes%20frequent%20servings%20of,calorie%20consumption%20is%205562%20calories |title=Ronnie Coleman's Diet |work=DMoose |access-date=August 30, 2024}}</ref> He also followed a strict diet regime sticking to basics such as [[Chicken as food|grilled chicken breasts]], [[Turkey meat|turkey breasts]], [[steak]], [[egg whites]], [[rice]], [[baked potatoes]] and [[grits]] with [[cheese]], eating six meals a day. His daily protein intake was 600g and the daily carbohydrate intake differed from 100-1000g depending on the cutting or bulking phase.<ref>{{cite web |last=Deokule |first=Ira |date=March 13, 2024 |title=How much did Ronnie Coleman eat during his prime? His diet explored|url=https://www.sportskeeda.com/us/olympics/how-much-ronnie-coleman-eat-prime-his-diet-explored |work=Sportskeeda |access-date=March 13, 2024}}</ref>


==Health concerns==
==Physical Stats ==
The extreme weights Coleman used over the years took a toll on his body, and he has undergone more than a dozen surgeries since 2007. These include double [[hip replacement]]s and various attempts at alleviating [[chronic pain]] from damaged [[intervertebral disc]]s<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|url=https://straighttalkingfitness.com/2016/02/15/ronnie-coleman-unable-to-walk-after-another-back-surgery/|title=Ronnie Coleman unable to walk after ANOTHER back surgery|date=February 15, 2016|website=Straight Talking Fitness|language=en|access-date=February 15, 2019}}</ref> costing millions.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://fitnessvolt.com/29311/ronnie-coleman-cant-walk/|title=Ronnie Coleman: "I Might Never Walk Again" After Spending $2 Million On The Last 3 Surgeries - FitnessVolt|last=Miller|first=Tom|date=October 23, 2018|website=Fitness Volt|language=en-US|access-date=February 15, 2019}}</ref> Despite using a wheelchair<ref>[https://www.football24.news/sport-today/168314/he-was-the-best-bodybuilder-in-the-world-but-the-gym-ruined-his-body-and-at-56-he-uses-a-wheelchair-the-life-of-ronnie-coleman.html Coleman: Wheelchair for Life!]</ref> because he can no longer walk unassisted due to surgical procedures,<ref>{{cite web|last=Miller|first=Tom|title=Ronnie Coleman: "I Might Never Walk Again" After Spending $2 Million On The Last 3 Surgeries|url=https://fitnessvolt.com/29311/ronnie-coleman-cant-walk/|work=fitnessvolt.com|access-date=December 2, 2020|date=June 10, 2020}}</ref> Coleman continues to train, but use only light weights now.<ref name="MensHealth">{{Cite web|url=https://www.menshealth.com/trending-news/a19056896/ronnie-coleman-is-still-hitting-the-gym-despite-several-surgeries/|title=Ronnie Coleman Is Still Hitting the Gym Despite Several Surgeries|author=Jack Crosbie|date=March 3, 2018|website=[[Men's Health]]|access-date=April 11, 2018}}</ref> Coleman has always said that he does not regret his choices and admits that he was determined to be the best bodybuilder he can be at any cost; even saying that that, if anything, he regrets not having done even more to consolidate his legacy.<ref name=":1" />
*'''Height: '''{{convert|5|ft|11|in|cm|abbr=on}}<ref name=bb/><ref name="RonnieBio"/>
*'''Contest Weight: '''{{convert|287-300|lbs|kg|0}}<ref name=bb/><ref name="RonnieBio"/>
*'''Off Season Weight: '''{{convert|315-320|lbs|kg|0}}<ref name=bb/><ref name="RonnieBio"/>
*'''Chest: '''{{convert|60|in|cm|abbr=on}}<ref name="RonnieBio"/>
*'''Arms: '''{{convert|22-24|in|cm|abbr=on}}<ref name=bb/><ref name="RonnieBio"/>


==Physical statistics ==
==Filmography==
[[File:Ronnie Coleman 8 x Mr Olympia - 2009 - 2 (cropped).png|thumb|Coleman in 2009, two years after his retirement]]
* Ronnie Coleman: The First Training Video (1998)
*'''Height: '''{{convert|5|ft|11|in|cm|abbr=on}}<ref name="RonnieBio"/><ref name=bb/>
* Ronnie Coleman: The Unbelievable (2000)
*'''Contest weight: '''{{convert|287-300|lbs|kg|0}}<ref name="RonnieBio"/><ref name=bb/>
* Ronnie Coleman: The Cost of Redemption (2003)
*'''Off-season weight: '''{{convert|315-330|lbs|kg|0}}<ref name="RonnieBio"/><ref name=bb/><ref name="FitnessVolt">{{cite web |last=Hall |first=Derek |date=November 7, 2021 |url=https://fitnessvolt.com/ronnie-coleman-330lb-mass-monster/ |title=Ronnie Coleman Flashes Back To Time As A 330lb Mass Monster: 'This Is The Biggest I've Ever Been!' |website=Fitness volt |access-date=March 30, 2022}}</ref>
* Ronnie Coleman: Relentless (2006)
*'''Chest / Back:''' {{convert|60|in|cm|0|abbr=on}}<ref name="RonnieBio"/>
* Ronnie Coleman: Invincible (2008)
*'''Arms:''' {{convert|24|in|cm|0|abbr=on}}<ref name=RonnieBio/><ref name="bb"/>
* Ronnie Coleman: The Last Training Video (2009)
*'''Legs:''' {{convert|36|in|cm|0|abbr=on}}<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://playersbio.com/ronnie-coleman/ |title=Who is Mr. Olympia Ronnie Coleman? More about him |author=playersbio.com |website= playersbio.com |date=November 24, 2021 |access-date=May 24, 2022}}</ref>
* Generation Iron - Ronnie Coleman: The King (2018)


==Bodybuilding titles==
==Famous lifts ==
*'''[[Deadlift]]: ''' {{convert|800|lb|kg|abbr=on|0|}} × 2 reps (The Unbelievable, 2000)
{{Unreferenced|section|date=May 2018}}
*'''[[Squat (exercise)|Squat]]: ''' {{convert|800|lb|kg|abbr=on|0|}} × 2 reps (The Cost of Redemption, 2003)
* 1990 Mr. Texas (Heavyweight & Overall)
*'''[[Bench press]]: ''' {{convert|500|lb|kg|abbr=on|0|}} × 5 reps (The Cost of Redemption, 2003)
* 1991 World Amateur Championships (Heavyweight)
*'''Dumbbell Bench press: ''' {{convert|200|lb|kg|abbr=on|0|}} Dumbbells × 12 reps (The Unbelievable, 2000)
<!-- Mr. Coleman did not win Mr. Universe in 1991. That was Wikipedia vandalism that has been quoted elsewhere -->
*'''[[Overhead press|Military press]]: ''' {{convert|315|lb|kg|abbr=on|0|}} × 12 reps (The Unbelievable, 2000)
* 1995 Canada Pro Cup
*'''Dumbbell Shoulder press: ''' {{convert|160|lb|kg|abbr=on|0|}} Dumbbells × 7 reps (The Cost of Redemption, 2003)
* 1996 Canada Pro Cup
*'''[[Bent-over row]]: ''' {{convert|515|lb|kg|abbr=on|0|}} × 10 reps (Relentless, 2006)
* 1997 Grand Prix Russia
*'''T-bar (corner) row: ''' {{convert|540|lb|kg|abbr=on|0|}} × 9 reps (The Unbelievable, 2000) & {{convert|505|lb|kg|abbr=on|0|}} x 12 reps (Relentless, 2006)
* 1998 Night of Champions
*'''Front Squat: ''' {{convert|585|lb|kg|abbr=on|0|}} × 4 reps (The Unbelievable, 2000)
* 1998 Toronto Pro Invitational
*'''Hack Squat: ''' {{convert|765|lb|kg|abbr=on|0|}} × 8 reps (The Unbelievable, 2000)
* [[1998 Mr. Olympia]]
*'''[[Lunge (exercise)|Lunges]]: ''' {{convert|185|lb|kg|abbr=on|0|}} × 20 reps per leg (The Unbelievable, 2000)
* 1998 Grand Prix Finland
*'''[[Shoulder shrug|Barbell Shrugs]]: ''' {{convert|735|lb|kg|abbr=on|0|}} × 11 reps (The Cost of Redemption, 2003)
* 1998 Grand Prix Germany
*'''Dumbbell Shrugs: ''' {{convert|250|lb|kg|abbr=on|0|}} Dumbbells × 15 reps (Relentless, 2006)
* [[1999 Mr. Olympia]]
*'''[[Calf raises]]: ''' {{convert|540|lb|kg|abbr=on|0|}} × 20 reps (Relentless, 2006)
* 1999 World Pro Championships
*'''[[Leg press]]: ''' {{convert|2300|lb|kg|abbr=on|0|}} × 8 reps (The Cost of Redemption, 2003)
* 1999 [[Pride Grand Prix]] England

* 2000 Mr. Brody Langley
==Bodybuilding chronology==
* 2000 Grand Prix England
{| class="wikitable"
* 2000 World Pro Championships
!Year
* [[2000 Mr. Olympia]]
!Competition
* 2001 [[Arnold Schwarzenegger Classic]]
!Result
* [[2001 Mr. Olympia]]
|-
* 2001 New Zealand Grand Prix
|1990
* [[2002 Mr. Olympia]]
|Mr. Texas {{small|(Heavyweight & Overall)}}
* 2002 Grand Prix Holland
|style="background: gold;"|1st
* [[2003 Mr. Olympia]]
|-
* 2003 Grand Prix Russia
|1990
* [[2004 Mr. Olympia]]
|NPC Nationals {{small|(Heavyweight)}}
* 2004 Grand Prix England
|style="background: #c96;"|3rd
* 2004 Grand Prix Holland
|-
* 2004 Grand Prix Russia
|1991
* [[2005 Mr. Olympia]]
|NPC Nationals {{small|(Heavyweight)}}
* 2006 Grand Prix Austria – IFBB, 2nd
|4th
* 2006 Grand Prix Holland – IFBB, 2nd
|-
* 2006 Grand Prix Romania – IFBB, 2nd
|1991
* [[2006 Mr. Olympia]] – IFBB, 2nd
|NPC USA Championships {{small|(Heavyweight)}}
* [[2007 Mr. Olympia]] – IFBB, 4th
|14th
|-
|1991
|World Amateur Championships {{small|(Heavyweight)}}
|style="background: gold;"|1st
|-
|1992
|Chicago Pro Championships
|'''11th'''
|-
|1992
|Night of Champions
|'''14th'''
|-
|1992
|[[1992 Mr. Olympia|Mr. Olympia]]
|'''16th'''
|-
|1993
|Grand Prix France
|'''4th'''
|-
|1993
|Grand Prix Germany
|'''6th'''
|-
|1993
|Niagara Falls Pro
|'''6th'''
|-
|1994
|Grand Prix Germany
|style="background: #c96;"|'''3rd'''
|-
|1994
|[[1994 Mr. Olympia|Mr. Olympia]]
|'''15th'''
|-
|1994
|San Jose Pro Invitational
|'''4th'''
|-
|1995
|Canada Pro Cup
|style="background: gold;"|'''1st'''
|-
|1995
|Grand Prix France
|'''4th'''
|-
|1995
|Grand Prix Russia
|'''6th'''
|-
|1995
|Grand Prix Ukraine
|style="background: #c96;"|'''3rd'''
|-
|1995
|Houston Pro Championships
|'''6th'''
|-
|1995
|Night of Champions
|style="background: #c96;"|'''3rd'''
|-
|1995
|[[1995 Mr. Olympia|Mr. Olympia]]
|'''11th'''
|-
|1996
|Canada Pro Cup
|style="background: gold;"|'''1st'''
|-
|1996
|Florida Pro Invitational
|style="background: silver;"|'''2nd'''
|-
|1996
|Grand Prix England
|'''5th'''
|-
|1996
|Grand Prix Germany
|'''5th'''
|-
|1996
|Grand Prix Spain
|'''5th'''
|-
|1996
|Night of Champions
|style="background: silver;"|'''2nd'''
|-
|1996
|[[1996 Mr. Olympia|Mr. Olympia]]
|'''6th'''
|-
|1997
|[[Arnold Schwarzenegger Classic|Arnold Classic]]
|'''4th'''
|-
|1997
|Grand Prix Czech Republic
|'''4th'''
|-
|1997
|Grand Prix England
|'''5th'''
|-
|1997
|Grand Prix Finland
|style="background: #c96;"|'''3rd'''
|-
|1997
|Grand Prix Germany
|'''5th'''
|-
|1997
|Grand Prix Hungary
|'''6th'''
|-
|1997
|Grand Prix Russia
|style="background: gold;"|'''1st'''
|-
|1997
|Grand Prix Spain
|'''7th'''
|-
|1997
|Ironman Pro Invitational
|style="background: #c96;"|'''3rd'''
|-
|1997
|[[1997 Mr. Olympia|Mr. Olympia]]
|'''9th'''
|-
|1997
|San Jose Pro Invitational
|'''6th'''
|-
|1998
|Grand Prix Finland
|style="background: gold;"|'''1st'''
|-
|1998
|Grand Prix Germany
|style="background: gold;"|'''1st'''
|-
|1998
|San Francisco Pro
|style="background: silver;"|'''2nd'''
|-
|1998
|Night of Champions
|style="background: gold;"|'''1st'''
|-
|1998
|[[1998 Mr. Olympia|Mr. Olympia]]
|style="background: gold;"|'''1st'''
|-
|1998
|Toronto Pro Invitational
|style="background: gold;"|'''1st'''
|-
|1999
|Grand Prix England
|style="background: gold;"|'''1st'''
|-
|1999
|[[1999 Mr. Olympia|Mr. Olympia]]
|style="background: gold;"|'''1st'''
|-
|1999
|World Pro Championships
|style="background: gold;"|'''1st'''
|-
|2000
|Grand Prix England
|style="background: gold;"|'''1st'''
|-
|2000
|[[2000 Mr. Olympia|Mr. Olympia]]
|style="background: gold;"|'''1st'''
|-
|2000
|World Pro Championships
|style="background: gold;"|'''1st'''
|-
|2001
|[[Arnold Schwarzenegger Classic|Arnold Classic]]
|style="background: gold;"|'''1st'''
|-
|2001
|[[2001 Mr. Olympia|Mr. Olympia]]
|style="background: gold;"|'''1st'''
|-
|2001
|Grand Prix New Zealand
|style="background: gold;"|'''1st'''
|-
|2002
|Grand Prix Holland
|style="background: gold;"|'''1st'''
|-
|2002
|[[2002 Mr. Olympia|Mr. Olympia]]
|style="background: gold;"|'''1st'''
|-
|2002
|Show of Strength Pro Championships
|style="background: silver;"|'''2nd'''
|-
|2003
|Grand Prix Russia
|style="background: gold;"|'''1st'''
|-
|2003
|[[2003 Mr. Olympia|Mr. Olympia]]
|style="background: gold;"|'''1st'''
|-
|2004
|Grand Prix England
|style="background: gold;"|'''1st'''
|-
|2004
|Grand Prix Holland
|style="background: gold;"|'''1st'''
|-
|2004
|Grand Prix Russia
|style="background: gold;"|'''1st'''
|-
|2004
|[[2004 Mr. Olympia|Mr. Olympia]]
|style="background: gold;"|'''1st'''
|-
|2005
|[[2005 Mr. Olympia|Mr. Olympia]]
|style="background: gold;"|'''1st'''
|-
|2006
|Grand Prix Austria
|style="background: silver;"|'''2nd'''
|-
|2006
|Grand Prix Holland
|style="background: silver;"|'''2nd'''
|-
|2006
|Grand Prix Romania
|style="background: silver;"|'''2nd'''
|-
|2006
|[[2006 Mr. Olympia|Mr. Olympia]]
|style="background: silver;"|'''2nd'''
|-
|2007
|[[2007 Mr. Olympia|Mr. Olympia]]
|'''4th'''
|}

==Filmography==
{| class="wikitable"
!Year
!Film
|-
|1998
|''Ronnie Coleman: The First Training Video''
|-
|2000
|''Ronnie Coleman: The Unbelievable''
|-
|2003
|''Ronnie Coleman: The Cost of Redemption''
|-
|2006
|''Ronnie Coleman: Relentless''
|-
|2008
|''Ronnie Coleman: Invincible''
|-
|2009
|''Ronnie Coleman: The Last Training Video''
|-
|2018
|''Ronnie Coleman: The King''
|}


==See also==
== See also ==
* [[List of male professional bodybuilders]]
* <!-- Mr. Coleman did not win Mr. Universe in 1991. That was Wikipedia vandalism that has been quoted elsewhere -->[[List of male professional bodybuilders]]


==References==
==References==
{{reflist|30em}}
{{reflist}}


==External links==
==External links==
{{commons category}}
{{commons category}}
{{Wikiquote|Ronnie Coleman}}
{{Wikiquote|Ronnie Coleman}}
*[http://www.bigroncoleman.com/ Official website]
*[http://www.ronniecolemannutrition.com/ Ronnie Coleman Nutrition]
*[http://www.musclesportmag.com/2009/06/30/breaking-news-coleman-comeback-confirmed-for-2010/ MuscleSport Mag article on comeback during radio interview]
*[http://www.ronniecoleman.net/ Ronnie Coleman's supplement brand 'Ronnie Cole Signature Series']
*[http://www.ronniecoleman.net/ Ronnie Coleman's supplement brand 'Ronnie Cole Signature Series']


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[[Category:Grambling State Tigers football players]]
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[[Category:People from Bastrop, Louisiana]]
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Latest revision as of 20:53, 12 November 2024

For the American football player, see Ronnie Coleman (American football).

Ronnie Coleman
Bodybuilder
Coleman during a public appearance in 2014
Personal info
NicknameThe King
Born (1964-05-13) May 13, 1964 (age 60)
Monroe, Louisiana, U.S.
Height5 ft 11 in (180 cm)[1]
WeightContest: 287–300 lb (130–136 kg)
Off season: 315–330 lb (143–150 kg)[1][2][3]
Professional career
Pro-debut
  • IFBB World Amateur Championships
  • 1992
Best win
PredecessorDorian Yates
SuccessorJay Cutler
Active1990–2007
Coleman talking about his journey in October 2009

Ronald Dean Coleman (born May 13, 1964) is an American retired professional bodybuilder, who is widely regarded as the greatest bodybuilder of all-time.[4][5][6][7] Known as "The King",[8] Coleman shares the all-time record for most Mr. Olympia titles at eight with Lee Haney.[9] The winner of 26 IFBB professional titles including the Mr. Olympia for eight consecutive years, he is also renowned for his combination of size and conditioning,[10] dominant body-parts[11][12] and extremely heavy workouts,[13] making him the strongest Mr. Olympia of all-time.[14][15]

Coleman was inducted into the International Sports Hall of Fame in 2016[16] and was bestowed with the 'Arnold Classic Lifetime Achievement Award' in 2021.[17]

Early life

Ronnie Dean Coleman was born on May 13, 1964, in Monroe, Louisiana[2] to Jessie Coleman and Jessie Benton Coleman. He was raised in a household that emphasized hard work and commitment. He graduated cum laude from Grambling State University in 1984 with a BSc in accounting.[18] While there, he played football as a middle linebacker with the Grambling State Tigers under Hall of Fame coach Eddie Robinson.

After graduation, he failed to find work as an accountant and instead went to work at Domino's Pizza, where he would eat the complimentary pizza every day due to being so poor that he could barely afford to eat outside of work.[19]

He then became a police officer in Arlington, Texas, serving as an officer from 1989 to 2000 and a reserve officer until 2003.[20]

Bodybuilding career

1990 to 1991

Coleman's fellow officer Gustavo Arlotta suggested he attend the 'Metroflex Gym', owned by amateur bodybuilder Brian Dobson. Dobson offered Coleman a free lifetime membership if he allowed Dobson to train him for the upcoming 1990 Mr. Texas bodybuilding competition.[21] After training for Mr. Texas, Coleman won first place in both the heavyweight and overall categories. He also managed to defeat Dobson himself. Then he participated at the 1990 NPC Nationals, winning 3rd place at the Heavyweight division.

Following year, Coleman turned pro[22] and emerged 4th place at the 1991 NPC Nationals Heavyweight division. He also decisively won 1991 IFBB World Amateur Championships's Heavyweight division.

1992 to 1994

Coleman's rise to the top of bodybuilding was relatively slow. In his first participation at the Mr. Olympia contest: 1992 Mr. Olympia held in Helsinki, Finland he ended up becoming the last (16th place). He also emerged 14th at the 1992 Night of Champions and 11th at the 1992 Chicago Pro Championships.

In 1993 Coleman did not take part in Mr. Olympia, but managed a 6th place at 1993 Chicago Pro Championships, 4th place at 1993 IFBB French Grand Prix, 6th place at 1993 IFBB German Grand Prix and 6th place in 1993 Niagara Falls Pro.

In 1994 Mr. Olympia held in Atlanta, Georgia, Coleman ended up being the 15th. The top athletes were continuously improving with Dorian Yates taking bodybuilding to the next level, and Coleman also increased the weights and intensity of his workouts. He also constantly participated in powerlifting competitions.[23] In the same year, he secured 3rd place at 1994 IFBB French Grand Prix, 3rd place at 1994 IFBB German Grand Prix and 4th place at 1994 San Jose Pro Invitational.[22]

1995 to 1997

In 1995 Coleman won his first pro show, winning 1995 Canada Pro Cup. He also improved on his placement at Mr. Olympia, emerging 11th at 1995 Mr. Olympia held in Atlanta, Georgia. He also secured 4th place at 1995 IFBB French Grand Prix, 6th place at 1995 IFBB Russian Grand Prix, 3rd place at 1995 IFBB Ukrainian Grand Prix, 6th place at 1995 Houston Pro Championships and 3rd place at 1995 Night of Champions.[22]

In 1996 Mr. Olympia held in Chicago, Illinois, Coleman emerged 6th, winning $12,000 in the process. He also won 1996 Canada Pro Cup. Furthermore, he also secured 2nd place at 1996 Florida Pro Invitational, 5th place at 1996 IFBB English Grand Prix, 5th place at 1996 IFBB German Grand Prix, 5th place at 1996 IFBB Spanish Grand Prix and 2nd place at 1996 Night of Champions.

Around this time, Coleman started to compete prolifically, traveling around the world and taking trains instead of flights because it was all what he could afford, and kept up with the top athletes. He won 1997 IFBB Russian Grand Prix and came 3rd at 1997 Ironman Pro Invitational and 1997 IFBB Finnish Grand Prix. However, at 1997 Mr. Olympia held in Long Beach, California he was dropped to 9th place.[24] He also secured 4th at 1997 Arnold Classic and 1997 IFBB Czech Grand Prix, 5th at 1997 IFBB English Grand Prix and 1997 IFBB German Grand Prix, 6th at 1997 IFBB Hungarian Grand Prix and 1997 San Jose Pro Invitational, and 7th at 1997 IFBB Spanish Grand Prix.[22]

1998

In 1998, Coleman who had made dramatic improvements to his physique came to the 1998 IFBB Finnish Grand Prix with one of his best physiques ever.[25] He defeated Kevin Levrone and Nasser El Sonbaty to win the title and started getting recognition for his 'wide and thick' back development. Both of Coleman's back poses: rear double biceps and rear lat spread were recognized as well as his front double biceps pose from this competition ranks among the best ever. He continued his success, also winning 1998 IFBB German Grand Prix, 1998 Toronto Pro and 1998 Night of Champions. Levrone stated "It was the beginning of the end, for me and every other bodybuilder".

When Dorian Yates won his final title before retiring the previous year, 1998 opened the door for a new Mr. Olympia champion. Flex Wheeler was favored to become the titleholder, with predominant competition coming from Levrone, El Sonbaty and Shawn Ray. However, Coleman, whose quadruple victories already in the calendar year had considerably elevated his esteem and brought further improvements, weighing 248 lb (112.5 kg) on stage, shredded to the bone, to defeat Wheeler, El Sonbaty, Levrone and Ray to win the 1998 Mr. Olympia held at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York. He won a cash prize of $110,000.[24] Judges praised Coleman's superior back development, v-taper, conditioning and the posing routine which all aided his victory.[26]

1999

In 1999, Coleman went up against one of the most iconic and toughest lineups in bodybuilding history at 1999 IFBB English Grand Prix, where he emerged victorious after defeating Wheeler, Levrone, Dexter Jackson, Milos Sarcev, El Sonbaty and Markus Rühl who all came in with some of their best physiques ever. The competition went on to be known as 'The Greatest Show on Earth' [27] and the final trio: Coleman, Wheeler and Levrone in this contest is regarded as the best top three ever on stage at the same time. Coleman's side chest pose from this competition ranks among the best ever.

At 1999 Mr. Olympia held at the iconic Mandalay Bay Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, Coleman successfully defended his title after defeating the likes of Wheeler, Chris Cormier, Levrone, Ray, El Sonbaty, Paul Dillett, Lee Priest, Mike Matarazzo, Jean Pierre Fux and Pavol Jablonický. He was heavier than last year at 257 lb (116.6 kg) but brought same level of dryness and conditioning.[28] Several experts and fellow IFBB pro's including Milos Sarcev recognize this version to be Coleman's best physique. He also won 1999 World Pro Championships and still was working full-time at Arlington Police Department, being 2x Mr. Olympia champion.

2000

Coleman started 2000 with easily winning 2000 IFBB English Grand Prix and 2000 World Pro Championships. At 2000 Mr. Olympia held again at Mandalay Bay Arena in Las Vegas, Coleman won his third consecutive title with it being also the third consecutive time he secured perfect scores following 1998 and 1999 (5 points in each four rounds during prejudging and finals for an ultimate score of 20). Levrone emerged second, Wheeler third, Ray fourth and El Sonbaty fifth. Coleman also became only the sixth person after Sergio Oliva, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Frank Zane, Haney and Yates to win 3 Mr. Olympia titles in a row.

2001

In 2001, Coleman started the year with winning the 2001 Arnold Classic with arguably the most ripped conditioning he bought to a stage. In addition to the prize money, he won a Hummer H1. Cormier emerged 2nd while Dennis James took 3rd. Then he proceeded to win 2001 IFBB New Zealand Grand Prix.

At 2001 Mr. Olympia held again at Mandalay Bay Arena in Las Vegas, he faced a formidable challenge from upcoming Jay Cutler, but successfully defended his title with a four-point lead to win his 4th consecutive Mr. Olympia title. Coleman also made history by becoming the first person in history to win both Mr. Olympia and Arnold Classic in the same calendar year.[29]

2002

As advised by one of the judges the previous year, Coleman tried to come a bit leaner for the 2002 Mr. Olympia. Therefore instead of his standard 12-week cutting down period, he started 16 weeks prior which resulted in a slight loss of muscle mass which was clearly evident in his arms and legs. However, he edged Levrone to win his fifth consecutive title, in what happens to be a very close call according to many experts and critiques. Cormier took 3rd, Jackson took 4th and Günter Schlierkamp took 5th place. Bodyonics Pinnacle company gifted Coleman a Cadillac Escalade.[30]

Coleman also won 2002 IFBB Dutch Grand Prix but came 2nd to Schlierkamp at 2002 Show of Strength Pro Championships, which was the only time he was defeated during his Olympia reign.

2003

In 2003, Coleman made massive improvements to his physique and came in for 2003 Mr. Olympia at a staggering 292 lb (132.4 kg) on-stage weight and ripped. Cutler, who had taken last year off described, even though he came well prepared and with confidence to dethrone the champion, the minute Coleman took his clothes off backstage, his mouth dropped and he knew it was game-over. Levrone quoted "Ronnie Coleman had reached a point, where he didn't look human backstage. It looked like a Silverback Gorilla. 'It' was part human, part gorilla". Jackson described him as the most dominant physique in history to ever grace a bodybuilding stage. Wheeler described Coleman's rear double biceps and rear lat spread poses were perfection from top to bottom and ranked the two poses among the greatest ever. Olympia head-judge Steve Weinberger said that Coleman brought a level of muscularity the world has never seen before or since. Coleman secured a perfect score and convincingly won his 6th title, tying his predecessor Yates as the joint-third most decorated Olympian in history. He also won his second Cadillac Escalade courtesy of Pinnacle Supplements.[31]

Coleman did one more show that year, 2003 IFBB Russian Grand Prix, coming in even bigger than he came for the Olympia. It was another easy victory, taking Coleman's IFBB winning tally to 20,[29] equaling Levrone.

2004

At 2004 Mr. Olympia, for the first time judges initiated a challenge round, where the top 6 finalists called out each other for a one-on-one pose comparison of their choice. Overall scores after round three was discarded, and the new challenge round standings were used to decide the winner. Coleman who came even bigger at 296 lb (134.3 kg), out-weighing even 285 lb (129.3 kg) Markus Rühl won the competition tying Schwarzenegger for 7 titles, becoming the joint-second most decorated Olympian in history. Cutler emerged 2nd to Coleman for the third time and Gustavo Badell secured 3rd place, followed by Jackson, Rühl and Schlierkamp.

Next came a phase where Coleman reached his heaviest ever on-stage weight, coming in between 301–305 lb (136.5–138.3 kg) for 2004 IFBB English Grand Prix, 2004 IFBB Dutch Grand Prix and 2004 IFBB Russian Grand Prix, winning all three and surpassing Vince Taylor to become the most decorated professional bodybuilder of all-time.[32]

2005

At 2005 Mr. Olympia, announcer Mike Adamle introduced Coleman who was dressed in a medieval King's costume with the words "On the Seventh day God didn't rest, on the Seventh day God created Ronnie Coleman..." as Coleman held off Cutler, Badell, Schlierkamp, Víctor Martínez and James in a challenge round judged by previous rivals to win his 8th consecutive Mr. Olympia, equaling Haney as the most decorated Olympian in history.[33] As soon as he was crowned the 8x time champion, IFBB president Ben Weider indicated that Coleman goes down in history as the greatest Mr. Olympia of all-time. Coleman won his biggest prize money of $150,000 for his victory.

2006 to 2007

Coleman's dominant reign as Mr. Olympia finally came to an end in 2006 Mr. Olympia where four-times his runner-up Jay Cutler edged him to earn his first title. Coleman came with the biggest upper arms he ever posed on stage at over 24 in (61 cm) in contest shape, but his clearly visible lat asymmetry cost him a 9th title. Coleman made his final appearance at 2007 Mr. Olympia where he placed 4th, and soon announced his retirement.[34][35]

Coleman guest posing in October 2009, two years after his retirement

Movie director Mitsuru Okabe produced training videos of Coleman, including The First Training Video (1998), The Unbelievable (2000),[36] The Cost of Redemption (2003),[37], Relentless (2006) and On the Road.[38] With his high-pitched voice, many of the lifts and vocal gimmicks Coleman popularized in them have become commonplace in the global physical culture community, especially after the advent of viral videos.[39] The most popular of these, which he regularly shouted to himself as a form of self-encouragement, include "Yeah buddy!", "Light weight, baby!", "Ain't nothin' but a peanut!", "Nothin' to it, but to do it!", "Everybody wants to be a bodybuilder, but nobody wants to lift no heavy-ass weights".[40]

Coleman's success as a professional bodybuilder has led to many product endorsements and other opportunities in his career, which he has traveled the world to promote.[41] He has made many guest appearances around the world. Coleman was the recipient of the 2001 Admiral in the Texas Navy Certificate Award from Texas Governor Rick Perry for outstanding achievements in bodybuilding and for the promotion of physical fitness.[42] He was inducted into the International Sports Hall of Fame in 2016, and was awarded the 'Arnold Schwarzenegger Lifetime Achievement Award' in 2021. Coleman is a supporter of Inner-City Games, co-founded by Schwarzenegger in 1991.

In 2011, Coleman launched Ronnie Coleman Signature Series (RCSS), a supplement company that provides sports nutrition and wellness products for bodybuilders and other athletes.[43] Products such as 'King Whey' whey protein, 'King Mass' weight gainer and pre-workout product 'Yeah buddy' are among some of the bestsellers.

In 2018, Vlad Yudin documented Coleman's life and career in the Netflix documentary Ronnie Coleman: The King.[19] For the film's credits, rapper Quan made a song called "Flexin' on Them (Ronnie Coleman)" inspired by Coleman's bodybuilding career.[44]

Personal life

In 1992, Coleman met Vickie Gates (who later went on to become 3x times IFBB Ms. International champion) at a local GNC store. She was his girlfriend for nearly 7 years.[45] In 1998, Coleman met French-Lebanese personal trainer Rouaida Christine Achkar at a sports exposition in Paris,[46] and they got married in 2007. However, they divorced soon after.[47]

In 2016, Coleman married his long time girlfriend, American personal trainer Susan Williamson.[48] They reside in Arlington, Texas, along with their four daughters.[49][19] Coleman is a devout Christian and a family man.[50]

Nutrition

Coleman was noted for eating around 6,000 calories a day during his prime.[51] He also followed a strict diet regime sticking to basics such as grilled chicken breasts, turkey breasts, steak, egg whites, rice, baked potatoes and grits with cheese, eating six meals a day. His daily protein intake was 600g and the daily carbohydrate intake differed from 100-1000g depending on the cutting or bulking phase.[52]

Health concerns

The extreme weights Coleman used over the years took a toll on his body, and he has undergone more than a dozen surgeries since 2007. These include double hip replacements and various attempts at alleviating chronic pain from damaged intervertebral discs[53] costing millions.[54] Despite using a wheelchair[55] because he can no longer walk unassisted due to surgical procedures,[56] Coleman continues to train, but use only light weights now.[57] Coleman has always said that he does not regret his choices and admits that he was determined to be the best bodybuilder he can be at any cost; even saying that that, if anything, he regrets not having done even more to consolidate his legacy.[53]

Physical statistics

Coleman in 2009, two years after his retirement
  • Height: 5 ft 11 in (180 cm)[1][2]
  • Contest weight: 287–300 pounds (130–136 kg)[1][2]
  • Off-season weight: 315–330 pounds (143–150 kg)[1][2][3]
  • Chest / Back: 60 in (152 cm)[1]
  • Arms: 24 in (61 cm)[1][2]
  • Legs: 36 in (91 cm)[58]

Famous lifts

  • Deadlift: 800 lb (363 kg) × 2 reps (The Unbelievable, 2000)
  • Squat: 800 lb (363 kg) × 2 reps (The Cost of Redemption, 2003)
  • Bench press: 500 lb (227 kg) × 5 reps (The Cost of Redemption, 2003)
  • Dumbbell Bench press: 200 lb (91 kg) Dumbbells × 12 reps (The Unbelievable, 2000)
  • Military press: 315 lb (143 kg) × 12 reps (The Unbelievable, 2000)
  • Dumbbell Shoulder press: 160 lb (73 kg) Dumbbells × 7 reps (The Cost of Redemption, 2003)
  • Bent-over row: 515 lb (234 kg) × 10 reps (Relentless, 2006)
  • T-bar (corner) row: 540 lb (245 kg) × 9 reps (The Unbelievable, 2000) & 505 lb (229 kg) x 12 reps (Relentless, 2006)
  • Front Squat: 585 lb (265 kg) × 4 reps (The Unbelievable, 2000)
  • Hack Squat: 765 lb (347 kg) × 8 reps (The Unbelievable, 2000)
  • Lunges: 185 lb (84 kg) × 20 reps per leg (The Unbelievable, 2000)
  • Barbell Shrugs: 735 lb (333 kg) × 11 reps (The Cost of Redemption, 2003)
  • Dumbbell Shrugs: 250 lb (113 kg) Dumbbells × 15 reps (Relentless, 2006)
  • Calf raises: 540 lb (245 kg) × 20 reps (Relentless, 2006)
  • Leg press: 2,300 lb (1,043 kg) × 8 reps (The Cost of Redemption, 2003)

Bodybuilding chronology

Year Competition Result
1990 Mr. Texas (Heavyweight & Overall) 1st
1990 NPC Nationals (Heavyweight) 3rd
1991 NPC Nationals (Heavyweight) 4th
1991 NPC USA Championships (Heavyweight) 14th
1991 World Amateur Championships (Heavyweight) 1st
1992 Chicago Pro Championships 11th
1992 Night of Champions 14th
1992 Mr. Olympia 16th
1993 Grand Prix France 4th
1993 Grand Prix Germany 6th
1993 Niagara Falls Pro 6th
1994 Grand Prix Germany 3rd
1994 Mr. Olympia 15th
1994 San Jose Pro Invitational 4th
1995 Canada Pro Cup 1st
1995 Grand Prix France 4th
1995 Grand Prix Russia 6th
1995 Grand Prix Ukraine 3rd
1995 Houston Pro Championships 6th
1995 Night of Champions 3rd
1995 Mr. Olympia 11th
1996 Canada Pro Cup 1st
1996 Florida Pro Invitational 2nd
1996 Grand Prix England 5th
1996 Grand Prix Germany 5th
1996 Grand Prix Spain 5th
1996 Night of Champions 2nd
1996 Mr. Olympia 6th
1997 Arnold Classic 4th
1997 Grand Prix Czech Republic 4th
1997 Grand Prix England 5th
1997 Grand Prix Finland 3rd
1997 Grand Prix Germany 5th
1997 Grand Prix Hungary 6th
1997 Grand Prix Russia 1st
1997 Grand Prix Spain 7th
1997 Ironman Pro Invitational 3rd
1997 Mr. Olympia 9th
1997 San Jose Pro Invitational 6th
1998 Grand Prix Finland 1st
1998 Grand Prix Germany 1st
1998 San Francisco Pro 2nd
1998 Night of Champions 1st
1998 Mr. Olympia 1st
1998 Toronto Pro Invitational 1st
1999 Grand Prix England 1st
1999 Mr. Olympia 1st
1999 World Pro Championships 1st
2000 Grand Prix England 1st
2000 Mr. Olympia 1st
2000 World Pro Championships 1st
2001 Arnold Classic 1st
2001 Mr. Olympia 1st
2001 Grand Prix New Zealand 1st
2002 Grand Prix Holland 1st
2002 Mr. Olympia 1st
2002 Show of Strength Pro Championships 2nd
2003 Grand Prix Russia 1st
2003 Mr. Olympia 1st
2004 Grand Prix England 1st
2004 Grand Prix Holland 1st
2004 Grand Prix Russia 1st
2004 Mr. Olympia 1st
2005 Mr. Olympia 1st
2006 Grand Prix Austria 2nd
2006 Grand Prix Holland 2nd
2006 Grand Prix Romania 2nd
2006 Mr. Olympia 2nd
2007 Mr. Olympia 4th

Filmography

Year Film
1998 Ronnie Coleman: The First Training Video
2000 Ronnie Coleman: The Unbelievable
2003 Ronnie Coleman: The Cost of Redemption
2006 Ronnie Coleman: Relentless
2008 Ronnie Coleman: Invincible
2009 Ronnie Coleman: The Last Training Video
2018 Ronnie Coleman: The King

See also

References

  1. ^ a b c d e f g "Ronnie Coleman". bodybuildingpro.com. Archived from the original on August 8, 2020. Retrieved March 20, 2022.
  2. ^ a b c d e f "Ronnie Coleman Pro Bodybuilding Profile". Bodybuilding.com. October 11, 2015. Retrieved March 30, 2022.
  3. ^ a b Hall, Derek (November 7, 2021). "Ronnie Coleman Flashes Back To Time As A 330lb Mass Monster: 'This Is The Biggest I've Ever Been!'". Fitness volt. Retrieved March 30, 2022.
  4. ^ Robson, David (February 6, 2015). "An Interview with the Greatest Professional Bodybuilder Of All Time: 8 Time Mr. Olympia, Ronnie "The Greatest" Coleman!". Bodybuilding.com. Retrieved December 4, 2016.
  5. ^ Robson, David (April 10, 2015). "Who Is The Greatest Mr. Olympia Winner Of All Time? A Critical Review Of Past Mr. Olympia Champions!". Bodybuilding.com. Retrieved December 4, 2016.
  6. ^ "Mr. Olympia Part 3: The 6 Greatest Olympians of All Time". Allmaxnutrition.com. August 21, 2013. Archived from the original on November 23, 2020. Retrieved December 4, 2016.
  7. ^ Yash Bhati (June 11, 2020). "Eight-time Mr. Olympia Ronnie Coleman". Hindustan Times. Retrieved May 24, 2022.
  8. ^ McNulty, Rose (November 5, 2018). "Ronnie Coleman's Documentary Is Now Available on Netflix". Muscle & Fitness. Retrieved July 14, 2024.
  9. ^ "Joe Weider's Olympia Fitness & Performance Weekend". Mr. Olumpia. Retrieved July 14, 2024.
  10. ^ Localconnecticut.net (October 10, 2021). "Ronnie Coleman Biography: Mr. Olympia, 8 Times! Largest Successful Bodybuilding Career!". Localconnecticut.net. Retrieved May 24, 2022.
  11. ^ Dr. Mike Jansen (May 24, 2022). "The Ronnie Coleman Back Workout!". Revolutionaryprogramdesign.com. Retrieved May 24, 2022.
  12. ^ Dr. Mike Jansen (May 24, 2022). "The Ronnie Coleman Leg Workout!". Revolutionaryprogramdesign.com. Retrieved May 24, 2022.
  13. ^ Greg Merritt (September 11, 2021). "THE LEGENDARY RONNIE COLEMAN". Muscle and Fitness. Retrieved May 24, 2022.
  14. ^ Tom Miller (February 18, 2022). "12 Strongest Bodybuilders Of All Time". Fitnessvolt.com. Retrieved May 24, 2022.
  15. ^ Greg Merritt (May 24, 2022). "THE 9 STRONGEST BODYBUILDERS OF ALL TIME". Muscleandfitness.com. Retrieved May 24, 2022.
  16. ^ Dr. Robert Goldman (March 15, 2016). "2016 International Sports Hall of Fame Inductees". www.sportshof.org. Retrieved July 14, 2023.
  17. ^ Roger Lockridge (September 26, 2021). "Eight-Time Mr. Olympia Ronnie Coleman Receives Arnold Classic Lifetime Achievement Award". www.barbend.com. Retrieved July 14, 2023.
  18. ^ "Ronnie Coleman Stars of Bodybuilding". Mrofansite.com. September 16, 2016. Archived from the original on December 10, 2013. Retrieved December 4, 2016.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: bot: original URL status unknown (link)
  19. ^ a b c Ronnie Coleman: The King (2018)
  20. ^ Campbell, Elizabeth (April 10, 2012). "Appeals court rules Arlington sperm donor doesn't owe child support". star-telegram.com. Archived from the original on December 3, 2013. Retrieved September 13, 2013.
  21. ^ "Ronnie Coleman Old Footage with Brian Dobson". YouTube. July 27, 2012. Retrieved December 4, 2016.
  22. ^ a b c d "Ronnie Coleman — Bodybuilding Career, Competition History, and Biography". Roger Lockridge for www.barbend.com. August 16, 2023. Retrieved October 18, 2024.
  23. ^ Ronnie Coleman (January 29, 2014), Ronnie Coleman's First Power Lifting Competition, retrieved February 15, 2019
  24. ^ a b "Mr. Olympia Contest Results". www.getbig.com. Retrieved February 15, 2019.
  25. ^ "Was The 1998 Finland Grand Prix RONNIE COLEMAN At His All-Time Best?". Mikey's Iron Rage. June 2, 2020. Retrieved October 18, 2024.
  26. ^ McGough, Peter (December 14, 2022). "The 1998 Mr. Olympia". The Barbell. Retrieved November 3, 2023.
  27. ^ "Caught Somewhere In Time: The 1999 British Grand Prix!". Kerry Kayes for www.bodybuilding.com. January 14, 2019. Retrieved October 18, 2024.
  28. ^ "1999 Mr Olympia Pump Room & Behind the Scenes". www.gmv.com.au. March 14, 1999. Retrieved October 18, 2024.
  29. ^ a b "Ronnie Coleman". www.musclememory.com. October 3, 2012. Retrieved October 18, 2024.
  30. ^ "Mr. Olympia Report 2002". bodybuildingpro.com. Archived from the original on November 11, 2012. Retrieved December 23, 2012.
  31. ^ "The 2003 Mr. Olympia: Coleman Wows Sold Out Crowd!". femalemuscle.com. October 26, 2003. Archived from the original on February 7, 2012. Retrieved December 23, 2012.
  32. ^ "Vince Taylor – Complete Profile: Height, Workout And Diet". www.fitnessvolt.com. December 11, 2023. Retrieved October 18, 2024.
  33. ^ "2005 Olympia Prize Money Breakdown". ifbbtv.com. 2005.
  34. ^ "Mr. Olympia Contest Results". getbig.com. September 30, 2012.
  35. ^ Merritt, Greg (October 21, 2023). "The 2007 Mr. Olympia". The Barbell. Retrieved November 5, 2023.
  36. ^ "Ronnie Coleman: The Unbelievable!: Ronnie Coleman, Mitsuru: Movies & TV". Amazon. Retrieved December 4, 2016.
  37. ^ "Ronnie Coleman: The Cost of Redemption: Ronnie Coleman, Mitsuru: Movies & TV". Amazon. November 8, 2005. Retrieved December 4, 2016.
  38. ^ "Ronnie Coleman: On the Road: Ronnie Coleman: Movies & TV". Amazon. March 7, 2006. Retrieved December 4, 2016.
  39. ^ "Ronnie Coleman Signature Series – Yeah Buddy Light Weight Baby Coffee Mug – White". Ronnie Coleman Signature Series. Retrieved May 29, 2019.
  40. ^ "YEAH BUDDY - How the Phrase Started - Ronnie Coleman". YouTube. February 22, 2016. Retrieved May 29, 2019.
  41. ^ Donnelly, Allan (September 19, 2008). "Flexonline Interview: Ronnie Coleman". flexonline.com. Retrieved September 13, 2013.
  42. ^ "Ronnie Coleman Launches Enterprise Venture". Prweb.com. May 24, 2011. Archived from the original on May 27, 2011. Retrieved December 4, 2016.
  43. ^ "About Ronnie Coleman". ronniecoleman.net. Retrieved April 11, 2018.
  44. ^ "Flexin on Them Ronnie Coleman". Amazon Music. June 22, 2018.
  45. ^ "Vickie Gates, 3 time Ms. International". NPC News. June 6, 2002. Archived from the original on March 8, 2005. Retrieved September 13, 2024.
  46. ^ "MEET THE MRS". Flex Online. January 14, 2007. Retrieved September 13, 2013.
  47. ^ Waruguru, Grace (January 27, 2022). "Who is Ronnie Coleman's wife? Does the bodybuilder have any kids?". Tuko.co.ke - Kenya news. Retrieved October 21, 2022.
  48. ^ "AFTER RECOVERY RONNIE COLEMAN MAKES MOVES TO ENTER NEXT PHASE OF HIS LIFE". Generation Iron. April 11, 2016. Retrieved September 13, 2016.
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  50. ^ Robson, David (July 20, 2005). "An Interview With Seven-Time Mr. Olympia Ronnie Coleman". bodybuilding.com. Retrieved September 13, 2013.
  51. ^ Wilson, Joe (August 30, 2024). "Ronnie Coleman's Diet". DMoose. Retrieved August 30, 2024.
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  53. ^ a b "Ronnie Coleman unable to walk after ANOTHER back surgery". Straight Talking Fitness. February 15, 2016. Retrieved February 15, 2019.
  54. ^ Miller, Tom (October 23, 2018). "Ronnie Coleman: "I Might Never Walk Again" After Spending $2 Million On The Last 3 Surgeries - FitnessVolt". Fitness Volt. Retrieved February 15, 2019.
  55. ^ Coleman: Wheelchair for Life!
  56. ^ Miller, Tom (June 10, 2020). "Ronnie Coleman: "I Might Never Walk Again" After Spending $2 Million On The Last 3 Surgeries". fitnessvolt.com. Retrieved December 2, 2020.
  57. ^ Jack Crosbie (March 3, 2018). "Ronnie Coleman Is Still Hitting the Gym Despite Several Surgeries". Men's Health. Retrieved April 11, 2018.
  58. ^ playersbio.com (November 24, 2021). "Who is Mr. Olympia Ronnie Coleman? More about him". playersbio.com. Retrieved May 24, 2022.
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Preceded by Mr. Olympia
1998–2005 		Succeeded by
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