Larry “Wheels” Williams, a renowned athlete in the fitness community, has recently confirmed his intention to transition to the Classic Physique bodybuilding division. Despite initial skepticism from some members of the online fitness community, Wheels has demonstrated his dedication to this endeavor in a recent update.
On March 18th, 2023, Wheels shared two revealing photos on his Instagram account, showcasing the impressive progress he has made in his bodybuilding training. In the accompanying caption, the athlete poses a rhetorical question, asking if he looks “classic yet.” This statement suggests that the post serves as a teaser for what he has accomplished so far. One of the photos shows Wheels extending both arms in a pose that accentuates his wingspan, while the other features him flexing his biceps in a vintage pose.
In both images, Wheels performs a vacuum pose that highlights his abs, which is a characteristic of the Classic Physique division. It is evident that Wheels has lost some weight and has leaned down considerably, as is apparent in both images. This update represents a remarkable transformation for a man who is primarily known for his strength, power, and mass in the gym and in sanctioned competitions.
View this post on Instagram
It is unclear when Wheels plans to debut as a Classic Physique bodybuilder. The athlete has stated that it would happen sometime in 2023, but there is no exact date as of yet. This leaves open several opportunities for Wheels to compete alongside athletes such as Terrence Ruffin, Ramon Rocha Queiroz, Urs Kalecinski, and newcomer Andrei Lincan. However, reigning Classic Physique Olympia champion Chris Bumstead is solely focused on winning his fifth consecutive title in the next iteration in November. To feature on bodybuilding’s most prominent stage as a Classic Physique competitor, Wheels would have to earn prior qualification with a triumph in another contest.
View this post on Instagram
Whenever Wheels plans to compete in the Classic Physique class, it will mark the end of a recent long and winding journey. He has gone through several health developments, including transitioning from steroid use to Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT), a back injury that kept him out of competition in the summer of 2022, and his plans to start a family. Despite these setbacks, Wheels is staying ambitious but realistic with his fitness goals.
For Wheels, being part of the Classic Physique category may have been the next logical step, given its potentially less strenuous demands on the body. His last appearance as a bodybuilder was a first-place performance in the Men’s Open division during the 2021 National Physique Committee (NPC) Mid-Florida Classic.
View this post on Instagram
While some athletes might tease lofty goals and let them dissipate over time, this is not the case for Wheels. His excitement and anticipation for the Classic Physique division continue to build, indicating his unwavering commitment to his goals.
Courtesy image @larrywheels (Instagram)
