In a powerful and introspective episode of The Kai Greene Effect , the legendary bodybuilder-turned-artist opened up about a wide range of topics that reflect his evolving journey—from music , to mental resilience , to paying homage to one of the greatest icons in bodybuilding history: Ronnie Coleman .
As the eight-time Mr. Olympia battles serious health issues—including a recent hospitalization due to sepsis—Kai Greene took a moment to reflect on Coleman’s legacy, the state of bodybuilding, and what it means to remain relevant long after stepping off the competitive stage.
“He still inspires generations.”
That was the core message from Kai Greene as he honored Coleman’s enduring influence—not just in bodybuilding, but in the broader culture of fitness, perseverance, and personal transformation.
Let’s break down the most impactful moments from this latest episode, where Kai proved once again why he remains one of the most multidimensional voices in the sport today.
🎤 Kai Greene Reinvents Himself: Introducing KI Afro King
One of the most exciting updates from the podcast is the official launch of KI Afro King , Kai Greene’s new music persona.
Far from a casual side hustle, this project represents a full-blown artistic reinvention—one that blends fitness, philosophy, performance art, and digital storytelling into a singular vision.
“It’s not just a gimmick — KI Afro King is a living force in global entertainment.”
Drawing inspiration from comic books and AI-generated visuals, Kai has created an immersive experience that blurs the line between reality and fiction.
His original songs are now available on major streaming platforms, marking the beginning of a bold new chapter.
This isn’t just about music—it’s about identity, evolution, and breaking free from expectations . For Kai, expression knows no bounds, and KI Afro King is the next phase of his lifelong mission to inspire through multiple forms of art.
⚖️ The Liver King Controversy: Is Bad Press Still Good Press?
No stranger to media scrutiny, Kai offered a thoughtful take on the ongoing controversy surrounding Liver King , whose erratic behavior has sparked debate across the fitness world.
“Some people literally pay for controversies as a form of publicity. That’s the reality.”
While Kai doesn’t endorse unethical behavior or reckless promotion, he acknowledges the brutal truth: in the age of algorithms and attention economy, visibility often trumps reputation .
Once you’re noticed, you can shape the narrative. But with that comes responsibility—and a fine line between strategic exposure and self-destruction.
❤️ Kai Greene Pays Tribute to Ronnie Coleman Amid Health Crisis
Perhaps the most emotional part of the episode came when Kai addressed the troubling news surrounding Ronnie Coleman’s health crisis .
Coleman—who many consider the greatest bodybuilder of all time—was recently hospitalized due to complications from sepsis , a life-threatening condition caused by the body’s response to infection.
Kai learned about the situation via a social media post from fellow legend Lee Haney , urging fans to send prayers and positive energy.
“It’s time to share uplifting energy. He’s still alive, and he can pull through.”
Kai emphasized the power of collective positivity during times of medical emergency. While the details remain limited, the tone was clear: Coleman’s fight is far from over , and his impact continues to resonate globally.
“His legacy is monumental—not just for bodybuilding but for global inspiration.”
🏋️♂️ Is Bodybuilding Healthy? Kai Greene Weighs In
In a candid discussion with host Vlad Yudin, Kai tackled the ever-debated question: Is bodybuilding actually good for your health?
His answer? It depends.
“Being fit improves your immune system. It prevents degradation of joints and bones as we age.”
Kai stressed that fitness itself is healthy , but extreme competition—especially at the professional level—can push the human body beyond sustainable limits.
He advocates for a balanced approach: building strength and muscle while prioritizing long-term health and recovery .
For younger athletes, the danger lies in chasing ego lifts without understanding the cumulative toll they may take over time.
💭 The Pressure to Stay Massive After Retirement
Another revealing segment explored the psychological struggle retired bodybuilders face: the pressure to maintain their stage-level physique long after competitions end.
“Your whole life revolved around being watched. That ‘wow factor’ is hard to let go of.”
Kai acknowledged that fan expectations and social media culture make it difficult for aging athletes to transition away from peak conditioning.
However, he believes the focus should shift from weight to shape, symmetry, and overall aesthetics .
This mindset allows for longevity in both appearance and health—a lesson many aging athletes are still learning.
💪 495 Pounds on Incline Bench: Kai Greene’s Jaw-Dropping PR
When asked about his current lifting capabilities, Kai revealed a staggering number:
495 pounds on incline bench press—for 13–14 reps.
But unlike many who chase numbers for clout, Kai attributes his success to proper coaching and joint health maintenance , crediting mentors like George Farah and drawing parallels to Dexter Jackson’s training philosophy.
“Connective tissue health is everything.”
This insight serves as a reminder that strength without sustainability leads to breakdown —a crucial takeaway for aspiring lifters.
💉 On PEDs, Posing, and the Power of Mindset
Kai didn’t shy away from deeper topics like performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) , posing technique, and mental framing. When discussing PED use, he urged caution:
“The dangers are real. It’s not bullsh*t.”
He made it clear that he never used until he had mastered his body naturally—an important message for young athletes tempted by shortcuts.
On posing, he admitted that even small changes in physique affect how poses look over time:
“There’s never a final version. Even the same pose looks different five years apart.”
Finally, Kai reinforced his famous mantra:
“Thoughts become things.”
A phrase he lives by, emphasizing the importance of visualizing goals as already achieved to drive consistent action and results.
🔥 Final Thoughts: Kai Greene – More Than a Bodybuilder
This episode of The Kai Greene Effect wasn’t just a workout for the ears—it was a masterclass in personal growth, identity, and legacy .
From launching KI Afro King , to reflecting on Ronnie Coleman’s health , to offering insights on bodybuilding culture and mental resilience , Kai proves yet again that he’s more than just a former pro bodybuilder.
He’s a visionary. A philosopher. A performer. And above all—a man who continues to evolve.
So whether you’re a die-hard bodybuilding fan, a music lover, or someone searching for inspiration, this episode is worth every minute.
Because in Kai Greene’s world…
Thoughts become things—and legends keep inspiring.