It’s been an eventful few weeks for powerlifting sensation Larry Wheels. In a recent Instagram video published on November 1, 2023, bodybuilding judge Terrick El Guindy discussed Larry Wheels’ potential following his second-place finish at 2023 Amateur Olympia.
“Larry Wheels is a formidable bodybuilder and I think he’s going to shock the world,” shared Terrick El Guindy.
Having spent years competing as a powerlifter, strongman, and arm-wrestler, performing at the highest level is nothing new for Larry Wheels. While he’s built a social media empire off of his daring feats of strength, Wheels decided to steer his career in a different direction last year.
Instead of pursuing strongman or his long-desired 1,000-pound deadlift, Wheels ventured into bodybuilding again, specifically, the Classic Physique division, ruled by four-time reigning champ Chris Bumstead. With a lengthy frame and thin waist, Wheels fit in perfectly on stage. In his first show of the season, he won the overall at the 2023 NPC Ultimate Warriors competition.
The 28-year-old couldn’t pass up an opportunity to participate in the 59th annual Joe Weiders Olympia Weekend. Although Wheels was unable to secure his Pro card with a second-place finish at the Amateur Olympia yesterday, he still left a strong impression on the bodybuilding world.
Terrck El Guindy Reflects on Larry Wheels’ Progress, Reacts to His 2nd Place Finish at 2023 Amateur Olympia
El Guindy expects Larry Wheels to make waves in the division on the horizon. He complimented Wheels’ thin waist, vacuum, chest, and muscle separation.
“Larry Wheels, I judged Larry in his first bodybuilding contest in Huntington Beach California, he won the overall there and he presented a good physique but what we’re watching right now is an exceptional physique.”
“Look at that vacuum, this looks incredible. Not many people have that, the small waist. Look, the judges are g going to look at this and see separation. Perfect balance here, great chest and everything. His midsection is bottom-line perfect. I think he’s going to shock the world.”
“I’m just over 6-foot-1 and I’m 230 at the moment,” shared Larry Wheels.
Regularly tipping the scales at 270 pounds, Larry Wheels successfully made weight for the Classic Physique division. In an abrupt rule change in August, IFBB Pro League Vice President Tyler Manion announced new weight and height restrictions for the Classic Physique category. The alteration was put in place to assist shorter competitors who they believed were at a disadvantage to taller athletes.
RELATED: Video: Larry Wheels Snaps Opponent’s Arm During an Arm Wrestling Practice
Whether Larry Wheels benefited from the new restrictions remains to be seen, but he certainly exceeded expectations in his 2023 Amateur Olympia showcase. Having already made an impact in the bodybuilding community, Terrick El Guindy is confident Larry Wheels will continue his rise and eventually earn his Pro card.
Published: 2 November, 2023 | 11:14 AM EDT
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