Powerlifting legend CT Fletcher continues to navigate health struggles since stepping away from competing. In a recent Instagram post (November 10, 2026), he said he’s been cleared for kidney removal surgery, but faces a high risk of dialysis and could be diagnosed with prostate cancer soon.
Nicknamed ‘The Superman of Compton,’ Fletcher found his calling under iron. He remains one of the most recognizable faces to emerge from the powerlifting scene and has inspired athletes to follow in his footsteps, like Larry Wheels. From kidney cancer and heart transplant surgeries to anti-rejection medication reactions, life hasn’t come easy for the 67-year-old star.
With his health once again in question, Fletcher is updating his fan base on his current condition. While it looks like he’s been greenlit to go under the knife, he mentioned it won’t be a routine procedure. He’ll need a blood transfusion during surgery, and he touched on what he expects to happen when he’s on the mend.
CT Fletcher Cleared for Kidney Removal Surgery, Gives Health Update
In a previous podcast, he discussed the latest challenges with his kidneys and mentioned surgery was inevitable:
“I just found out about three weeks ago that I have kidney cancer, and they’re going to have to remove my right kidney in about a month from now,” he said.
Taking to Instagram, Fletcher confirmed that he was approved for the operation.
“All right, me and Beatrice are here in Palo Alto. This is the latest update. I met with my cardiologist today and he told me the results of my heart test. And my heart is functioning, A-O-K, everything’s fine. No angiogram necessary. I am good to go for surgery.”
The procedure won’t be without risk; he will need a blood transfusion during the surgery. He also mentioned having a PICC line inserted:
“And I actually thought while I was here that I would have the surgery while we’re here in Palo Alto, but that’s not the case. They have to take certain steps beforehand. I have to get a PICC line placed in my chest. It’s a precautionary measure, just because I need a blood transfusion during the surgery.”
Not only will he be at risk for dialysis post-surgery, but they are conducting an MRI on his prostate to determine if he has cancer.
“And they told me there’s a high probability of being on dialysis after the surgery,” he shared. “And just to throw in another little tidbit, I’m getting my MRI for my prostate tomorrow because it’s suspected that it’s possibly prostate cancer also,” he said. “So the good news just keeps pouring in.”
Fletcher isn’t the only 1990s sensation struggling with kidney health. Eight-time Mr. Olympia Lee Haney recently asked the public to help him find a kidney donor. Fortunately, a fellow bodybuilder volunteered and was able to save his life.
Fletcher is keeping a positive mindset as he readies himself for another surgery. Our Fitness Volt team wishes him a speedy recovery and hopes to see him bounce back fast!
RELATED: CT Fletcher Goes Plant-Based To Kick Off 2020
