Bodybuilding icon Lee Haney faces a tough road ahead. On March 22, 2026, he revealed that one of his kidneys was failing and asked for help finding a living donor.
According to Haney, he was told 26 years ago that he would need a kidney transplant. He avoided the procedure thanks to healthy living, but the issue recently resurfaced. As a result, his family has taken to social media in hopes of helping the bodybuilding great.
Through the 1980s and early ’90s, Haney was a dominant force in the Men’s Open class. He achieved a record eight Mr. Olympia titles (tied with Ronnie Coleman), besting elite-caliber talent like Tom Platz, Rich Gaspari, and Lee Labrada. While he’s remained in great health post-bodybuilding, it looks like Haney could use a helping hand as he navigates the next chapter of his life.
Lee Haney Reveals He Needs a Kidney Transplant: ‘Hoping to Find a Living Donor’
In the post, Haney confirmed that he needs a kidney transplant and hopes to find a living donor.
“26 years ago I was told I would eventually need a kidney transplant. Through faith, proper nutrition, and exercise, I was blessed to delay it for many years. Now my kidney is failing, and I’m prayerfully hoping to find a living donor.”
“My wife of 43 years and our 7 grandchildren would be forever grateful. If you feel led to help, please scan the QR code for more information. All donor testing and transplant costs are covered.”
His son also shared a post, asking the public for help:
“First time sharing this—my dad needs a kidney donor. Please keep him in your prayers and share if you can.
He is a Blessing to so many others and breathes life into all he does.🙏🏾🖤 There is more work to do.
#DonateLife #LivingDonor #KidneyDonor #ShareLife #Faith Hope” Lee Haney’s son shared.
Haney’s influence over the sport has been immense, which prompted athletes and fans to rally on his behalf:
“🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽 Prayers do come true 💪🏽🥰” Shawn Ray shared.
“Lee sending you positive energy” Robby Robinson added.
“🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽” Dennis James commented.
“Everyone saying “praying for your dad” no one asking what his blood type is. I’ll give Lee Haney a Kidney, let’s go!!” one fan wrote.
Haney hasn’t been the only bodybuilding star to require a kidney transplant. Flex Wheeler, a four-time Arnold Classic champion, suffered a car accident and was diagnosed with a hereditary kidney disease. He received a kidney transplant in 2003, but it started failing years later. The bodybuilding community had his best interests; Guy Cisternino offered Wheeler one of his kidneys.
Through the years, Haney has always been a positive force, helping up-and-coming athletes find their own in the IFBB Pro League. As one of the most selfless and respected Olympia champions of all time, our team at Fitness Volt hopes he finds a suitable donor.
RELATED: Fouad Abiad Updates Flex Lewis on Kidney Damage: ‘I Don’t Want to End Up On Dialysis When I’m 55’
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