The legendary powerlifter and Generation Iron documentary star shares encouraging news about his heart while preparing for another major health battle
Legendary powerlifter CT Fletcher is preparing for another serious medical procedure after receiving clearance to undergo surgery for kidney cancer. The 67-year-old fitness icon shared an update on November 10, revealing that doctors have approved the operation to remove his right kidney. However, he also faces the possibility of dialysis and is undergoing testing for suspected prostate cancer.
Fletcher, famously known as the “Superman of Compton,” has endured numerous health challenges throughout his life, including a heart transplant in 2018. Despite another difficult diagnosis, he continues to approach his situation with the determination that made him one of the most recognizable figures in strength sports.
CT Fletcher Receives Medical Clearance for Kidney Surgery
In his latest Instagram update, Fletcher revealed that he traveled to Palo Alto with Beatrice to meet with his cardiologist. The appointment brought some encouraging news.
“My heart is functioning, A-O-K, everything’s fine. No angiogram necessary. I am good to go for surgery,” Fletcher explained.
Although his heart has been cleared for the procedure, Fletcher revealed that additional preparations are necessary before doctors can remove his kidney.
He initially expected to undergo surgery during his visit to Palo Alto. Instead, doctors informed him that several steps must be completed beforehand.
Fletcher said he will need a PICC line placed to provide vascular access because he expects to require a blood transfusion during the operation.
The former powerlifting champion also revealed that doctors warned him about the possibility of needing dialysis following surgery.
“They told me there’s a high probability of being on dialysis after the surgery,” Fletcher said.
Fletcher Also Facing Possible Prostate Cancer Diagnosis
The kidney operation is not Fletcher’s only immediate medical concern.
He revealed that doctors have scheduled an MRI to investigate the possibility of prostate cancer.
“I’m getting my MRI for my prostate tomorrow because it’s suspected that it’s possibly prostate cancer also,” Fletcher explained.
He followed the troubling news with his trademark sense of humor.
“So the good news just keeps pouring in.”
Fletcher has not confirmed a prostate cancer diagnosis, and the upcoming testing will help doctors determine whether additional treatment is necessary.
Generation Iron Previously Documented Fletcher’s Remarkable Life
Fletcher’s journey holds a special connection to Generation Iron.
In 2015, Generation Iron released the feature-length documentary CT Fletcher: My Magnificent Obsession, directed by Vlad Yudin.
The film explored Fletcher’s difficult childhood, legendary powerlifting career, personal struggles, and remarkable ability to overcome adversity. It also featured appearances from wrestling legends Stone Cold Steve Austin and Bill Goldberg.
A six-time world champion powerlifter, Fletcher became an international fitness sensation through his intense motivational speeches and relentless training philosophy.
His famous “I Command You to Grow” mentality helped inspire generations of lifters.
Now, more than a decade after Generation Iron brought his story to the big screen, Fletcher is facing another significant challenge.
While a surgery date has not been announced, the encouraging results of his cardiac evaluation represent an important step toward treatment.
Generation Iron wishes Fletcher strength and a successful recovery as he prepares for the next chapter of his health battle.
