Chicago Fire Department firefighter Cornell Walker appeared on the cover of the June 2005 Men’s Health Magazine as part of a tribute to the fittest firefighters in the United States.
Walker has also organized and participated in the Fire/Policeman World Games and Men’s Health/Equinox Gym’s America’s Fittest Firefighter contest. In high school, Walker was a wrestler and football player. His interest in fitness and bodybuilding became more serious after meeting Joe Abrams, organizer of Mr. Chicagoland and Mr. Illinos contests.