Gregg Valentino reacts to “Liver King 3.0” – who now openly discusses his steroid use
Liver King, the primal-living influencer known for his muscular physique and wild lifestyle, is once again gaining attention social media — but this time for reasons few expected. After years of claiming a strict “natural” regimen focused on ancestral eating and living, Liver King, whose real name is Brian Johnson, faced widespread backlash when evidence surfaced that he had been using steroids all along.
In a twist, rather than quietly backing down, Liver King has fully leaned into his new public identity as an open steroid user. In an exclusive interview with Generation Iron, bodybuilding icon Gregg Valentino shared his perspective on the surreal shift in Liver King’s persona and its surprising success in maintaining fan engagement.
Gregg Valentino, known for his bold opinions and fearless personality, has seen his fair share of scandal and controversy in the fitness industry. Yet, even he finds the phenomenon of Liver King’s ongoing popularity baffling.
A Shock to the Community
In late 2022, the fitness community was rocked by revelations that Liver King, whose all-natural lifestyle had inspired millions, was actually using steroids to achieve his imposing physique. His message had centered on rejecting processed foods and embracing raw, nutrient-dense foods like liver, testicles, and bone marrow, promising that these habits were enough to build a body as muscular as his. While some fans were skeptical, the sheer intensity of his commitment convinced many that he was an authentic representation of primal, natural living.
But when emails and other evidence surfaced, showing that Liver King’s lean, muscular body was aided by significant steroid use, the backlash was swift. Gregg Valentino notes how everyone thought that was the end of his popularity. He was caught red handed lying. His natural “ancestral living” was a key component to his entire fame and success.
In the initial fallout, Liver King publicly admitted to using steroids, apologizing to fans and attempting to explain his reasons. He used this as an opportunity to truly go all-natural and chronicled his journey coming off steroids. This was ultimately short lived.
Liver King recently took an unexpected path: he openly embraced steroid use and continued to post content centered on his workouts, diet, and life philosophy—just now with a new emphasis on his “enhanced” status.
A Surprising Rebound
Gregg Valentino, who has never shied away from sharing his own controversial opinions, is quick to point out just how unusual Liver King’s rebound has been. For most public figures in the fitness industry, an exposure of this nature can be career-ending, as it undermines the authenticity that their followers crave. But for Liver King, the opposite has been true.
Valentino believes that Liver King’s brash honesty following the scandal may have played a role in his unexpected resurgence. By dropping the facade and sharing his reality, Liver King effectively transformed himself from a “natural icon” into a more complex, controversial figure.
Wrap Up
In a world where authenticity is key, Liver King’s story stands out as a paradox that defies traditional wisdom about brand integrity and transparency. Whether or not the primal influencer’s popularity will endure remains to be seen, but for now, Liver King’s dramatic transformation continues to capture the attention of millions, and he seems ready to ride the wave as long as it lasts.
In the ever-evolving world of fitness influencers, it’s clear that Liver King has found a formula that, for better or worse, keeps him at the center of conversation. And according to Valentino, that’s no small feat.
