Rajesh John

IFBB Pro

India

“John”

143 lbs / 65 kg: Contest weight
152 lbs / 69 kg: Off season
5'1" / 154 cm: Height
22: Years training

Childhood Polio · Polio · Polio Residual paralysis both lower limb

Contact Rajesh John

Nickname: John
Born: March 7, 1987
Birthplace: Kollam
Injured: 4yr old (childhood polio)
Favourite exercise: Shoulder press
Trains most: Arms

Biography

Rajesh John is an Indian wheelchair bodybuilder whose journey began after being affected by polio as a child, which resulted in disability affecting both of his legs. Growing up with physical challenges could have limited his ambitions, but at just 17 years old, Rajesh discovered bodybuilding—and his life began to move in a new direction.

What initially started as a way to become stronger soon developed into a passion and purpose. With the unwavering support of his parents and friends, Rajesh dedicated himself to training and began competing in bodybuilding. Through years of discipline, sacrifice, and determination, he won titles and established himself within the sport.

His journey eventually took him to one of bodybuilding’s biggest stages, the Mr. Olympia Wheelchair competition, where he proudly earned 3rd place.

For Rajesh, however, bodybuilding became about much more than trophies and competitive success. Wanting to give back to the sport that transformed his life, he went on to run his own gym, where he helps others develop their strength, confidence, and fitness.

Rajesh’s journey demonstrates his belief that circumstances do not have to define a person’s future. From discovering bodybuilding at 17 to standing on the Mr. Olympia stage, he continues to use his experiences to encourage others to pursue their goals regardless of the obstacles they face.

Q&A'S

What happened? Why are you in a wheelchair, or why do you have a disability?
I had polio when I was a child, which affected both of my legs. Because of the lasting effects of polio, I have had to use a wheelchair for mobility. It has been part of my life since childhood, but I have never allowed it to stop me from pursuing my goals.
Why did you get started?
I started bodybuilding when I was 17 years old because I wanted to become stronger, improve myself physically, and build more confidence. What began as a way to improve my strength quickly became a true passion. Bodybuilding showed me that my disability did not have to limit what I could accomplish.
What made you want to compete?
As I became stronger and continued improving my physique, I wanted to challenge myself at a higher level. Competing gave me something bigger to work toward and allowed me to test myself against other athletes. Each competition motivated me to improve, and that journey eventually took me to the Mr. Olympia Wheelchair stage, where I earned 3rd place.
How did you go about doing it?
There was no shortcut. I trained consistently, followed a strict diet, worked on improving my physique, and learned how to present myself on stage. I had to understand my body and adapt my training around my abilities.

There were setbacks and difficult days, but I kept going. With the support of my parents and friends, I continued competing and gaining experience until I eventually reached the Mr. Olympia Wheelchair stage and placed 3rd.
What motivates you?
My biggest motivation is becoming better than the person I was yesterday. I remind myself of where I started and everything I had to overcome to get where I am today.

My parents, friends, and supporters continue to motivate me, but I am also driven by the opportunity to inspire others who may believe their circumstances limit what they can achieve.
What suggestions or tips do you have for others?
Don’t allow anyone else to decide what you are capable of. Everyone’s journey is different, so find the path that works for you and keep moving forward.

Work with what your body can do, stay consistent, remain disciplined, and learn from your setbacks. Surround yourself with people who believe in you, and when you feel like quitting, remember why you started.

I began bodybuilding at 17 and eventually stood on the Mr. Olympia stage. For me, the greatest victory was proving that my circumstances did not have to define my future.