A gym owner has come forward with new details about the past of Naveed Akram, the man accused in connection with the Bondi shooting, painting an unflattering picture of his attempts to reinvent himself before the alleged attack. According to the gym owner, Akram briefly attended the fitness facility in the months leading up to his arrest, hoping to “bulk up” and project a tougher image.

The owner described Akram as socially withdrawn, inconsistent with training, and struggling to fit in. “He talked a lot about changing his life, but there was no discipline behind it,” the gym owner said, adding that Akram often skipped sessions and failed to follow basic workout routines. Other members reportedly kept their distance, sensing something was “off” about his behavior.

Despite his efforts to appear more confident, the gym owner claimed Akram lacked self-belief and appeared frustrated by his inability to gain physical strength or social acceptance. “He wanted respect, but didn’t put in the work,” the source said.

Investigators have not linked Akram’s gym attendance directly to the alleged crime, but the revelations add another layer to the portrait emerging of the suspect’s troubled state of mind. Authorities continue to stress that the case remains under investigation and that all allegations will be tested in court.