It wasn't long before the "giant'' was recognised and asked for photographs.

The world's greatest bodybuilding champion, American Ronnie Coleman, had just sent a rumble through the jungle of the sport, announcing he was coming out of retirement.

At 45! And the International Federation of Bodybuilding (IFBB) website copped 10 million hits.

Coleman is not only big physically, he supersedes all others in popularity.

"We had him up in Darwin for the weekend Northern Territory titles and in a supposed 15-minute store promotional visit, more than 500 people turned up and police had to block

off the streets,'' said promoter Paul Graham, who has flown Coleman to Australia for the Australian Bodybuilding and Fitness Championships at Sharkies Leagues Club.

Word was, the police didn't mind playing bodyguard to Coleman, the former US cop especially after he announced he was coming back.

Coleman's appearance has already sold out the Sunday, October 25, Cronulla show and news that he'll also guest pose on the Saturday, when the mainly women's competitions

will be held, should see the standing-room only signs go up.

Coleman reigned supreme between 1998 and 2005, winning eight straight Mr Olympia competitions and equalling Lee Haney's record. He also holds the record for most wins (26)

as an IFBB professional.

He quit the sport two years ago when he failed to make it nine Mr Olympia titles, although he continued to train. While there were rumours he might make a shock comeback in this year's Olympia competition, Coleman said he just "didn't have enough preparation time'' for the September stage.

"I've got about 7kg to strip from my frame [134kg] but I've got a good metabolism and that won't take long,'' said the former Texas police officer, whose retirement co-incided with

him marrying two years ago, and two daughters born since.

Middle-aged men and women anxious about weight training might take a tip from Coleman, who is kept busy with seminars and exhibitions around the world.

"I don't feel good when I'm not training,'' said the big man, in between his five meals a day.

"Don't be afraid of weights .... they'll keep you physically and mentally strong right into old age.''

Details: Australian Fitness and Bodybuilding Championships at Sharkies Leagues Club: Paul or Carol Graham on 0417203976

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