Michael Phelps: Relaxed Demeanor Doesn't Show Champion Swimmer's True Colors

Although Michael Phelps carried himself with a casual, relaxed and somewhat disinterested demeanor during recent talks with the media, he cares deeply about how performs in the 2012 London Olympics. 

His 2008 masterpiece performance in Beijing resulted in a record eight gold medals en route to international stardom. His track record essentially gives him the right to enter these games with a laid back and relaxed air about him. 

The 16-time Olympic medalist has achieved more in his career than nearly every Olympian before him. 

Actually, that carefree attitude is simply the Phelps way. He'll let everyone talk and the masses question him. Don't let it fool you—he's as fiery of a competitor as any athlete out there. 

He has stated he's trying to have fun at these Olympics and that they'll be the "toppings on his sundae." But fun doesn't automatically equate to a lack of competitive passion. 

Yes, he trained more diligently in preparation for the 2004 and 2008 games, when he poised to make history. 

That doesn't mean he's finished. 

With three more medals, Phelps will pass Russian gymnast Larisa Latynina to become the most decorated Olympic athlete in history. 

Think that's a record he'd like to have?

What about Ryan Lochte? Having beat Phelps in the 400-meter individual medley at the U.S. Olympic trials, Lochte is believed by many to be poised to emerge as the best American swimmer during the London Games. 

Is the thought that Phelps will simply lay down to his biggest challenger?

Really?

“Some people like to express their feelings in words, some people like to express it in actions. I’ve always done that by swimming," Phelps was quoted saying in a recent New York Times article.

The London Games are essentially a victory lap for the champion swimmer. As Phelps quietly and nonchalantly goes about his business prior to his Olympic events, just know, he's looking to blow away the competition once again and add plenty of toppings to that sundae.