New Details Emerge Amid Ronnie Coleman’s Medical Crisis

Bodybuilding legend Ronnie Coleman is showing signs of recovery after days in critical care, his family announced Friday.

The family said doctors have identified and begun treating the source of his bloodstream infection, calling it an encouraging step forward in an Instagram statement. They added he also underwent a “successful, minimally invasive” heart procedure to improve his quality of life. (RELATED: Conner Smith Breaks Silence On Fatal Car Crash)

“Ronnie’s doctors have managed the source of his bloodstream infection and are now treating it directly-an encouraging step forward,” they wrote. “He also recently underwent a successful, minimally invasive heart procedure to support his overall quality of life. With these developments, our focus is beginning to shift from critical care to recovery.”

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 11: Ronnie Coleman attends Netflix’s “FUBAR” Season 2 Los Angeles Premiere at Netflix Tudum Theater on June 11, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images)

The statement went on to reveal the nature of his medical crisis and how it inspired a new cause.

“We’re deeply grateful for the unwavering support and positivity you’ve shown. Inspired by that strength, we’re pledging to help shine a brighter light on the condition that nearly took Ronnie’s life: sepsis,” they said.

They also announced “Ronnie Strong,” a recovery and advocacy initiative that will donate a portion of proceeds to Sepsis Alliance, a national nonprofit focused on education and prevention.

MIAMI – FEBRUARY 06: Former Bodybuilder Ronnie Coleman attends the 2010 Maxim Party at The Raleigh on February 6, 2010 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Christopher Polk/Getty Images for Maxim)

“Our aim is to turn this difficult chapter into a beacon of hope and information for millions around the world,” they added. “Learn more at ronniestrong.org and join the movement. Thank you all for standing with Ronnie.”

Coleman was admitted to the hospital June 30, with his family initially saying only that he was battling a blood infection. Friday’s statement marked the first time they publicly detailed his condition.

Widely regarded as one of the greatest bodybuilders of all time, Coleman shares the record for most Mr. Olympia titles, with eight wins. His extraordinary strength and dominance in the 1990s and early 2000s reshaped the sport. (RELATED: Iconic Bodybuilder Lenny Persin Dies At Age 60)

His accolades include induction into the International Sports Hall of Fame in 2016 and the Arnold Schwarzenegger Lifetime Achievement Award in 2021.