Mariola Sabanovic-Suarez 11. NASCAR, MotoGP, skiing, polo, rugby all come with an element of risk. We regret to report that IFBB Pro Tom Prince has died of cancer, leaving behind his wife and two kids. It also stated that Atwood unknowingly suffered a minor heart attack about a month previous. The Canadian Moose as he was known will be missed but not forgotten., Next Read:Spotting Steroid User Eight Signs Impossible To Hide. He was all quality in both his physique and personality. Mike Mitchell gained attention due to his incredible size that also helped him land some movie roles. However, he passed away at age 26 from cardiac arrest, just when his career was starting to take off. 10th Nov 2021, 07:00 Our thoughts go out to his family, friends and fans. Even though he was a pro bodybuilder, he did not place well in any shows. Apparently, she passed in her sleep. Daves incredible physique earned him a role alongside starring actress Sharon Tate, in the 1967 comedy Dont Make Waves. Most people remember Mike Mentzer from the 1980 Olympia where they felt he got an unfair fifth placing. A post shared by Nick Scott (@thebeastwcbb). She ran a gym with her boyfriend and looked forward to competing as an IFBB pro. Tom had many health issues over the years including kidney failure in 2003 which had him on dialysis until he received a kidney transplant in 2012. The Canadian Moose as he was known will be missed but not forgotten.. Mariola Sabanovic-Suarez passed awaytragically only days after Tampa Pro. He was then a special invitee of the 2nd Gladiator Showdown, placing 3rd in the Super Heavyweight Division. The death of Tiffany-Victoria Enriquez was an absolutely devastating one. He suffered a heart attack while on a treadmill, according to the outlet. And it is not just well-established stars who succumb to the pressure. He was also the author of the book Brother Iron, Sister Steel. Canadian bodybuilding journalist Garry Bartlett had to say of the passing of Frank Calta: "I am saddened to hear that Bodybuilder Frank Calta just passed away. We first lost Sergio Oliva Sr. in 2012, Larry Scott died in 2014, and Franco Columbo passed away in 2019. Provitalize Review The Best Probiotic Supplement? My dearest friend of 30 years died last evening after a 3 year battle with colon cancer. It was an honor knowing your father, Posted by Shawn Ray onSunday, December 29, 2019. Rhondas closest friends announced her passing on her personal Instagram account, sharing the following sentiments. It led him to take a break from competing. Dallas Big Country McCarver was an up and coming Open division bodybuilder who placed 8th at the 2016 Olympia and 2nd at the 2017 Arnold Classic Ohio to name his most notable achievements. Sources tell us the cause of death was complications from the virus COVID-19. Regardedasthe original East Coast Mecca, Bob was one of the original owners of the very popular Strong and Shapely Gym when it opened its doors inNew Jersey in 1984. In a 2010 interview, Scott had expressed that a major influence on his desire to compete in bodybuilding came from none other than Arnold Schwarzenegger. Iris Kyle is a bodybuilder who has dominated the sport since her first overall Ms. Olympia win in 2004 . Born: 1973 (age 45 years) Nationality: Finland. Dallas McCarver 3. Frank Calta has passed away. His posing was magical, like a statue that suddenly came to life gliding from one classic pose to another. George Peterson was a nice guy and a great ambassador for the sport. During the 90s and 2000s, Bob promoted some of the largest NPC events as well as the Mr. America contest,The Womans Extravaganza and the Ms. Olympiain the early 2000s. Corney suffered a heart attack in 1999 during shoulder replacement surgery although, he eventually recovered. She went on to win her IFBB Pro Card at the 1995 Canadian Nationals. He earned his pro card following the 1997 NPC National Championships before making his debut for the International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness governing body in 1999. To keep up with the latest fitness industry news and product releases, subscribe to our FREEnewsletter. He was one of my idols," Schwarzenegger, 74, wrote on Instagram. Photo: @fitnique on Instagram (modified by author) Source: Instagram American Bodybuilding veteran and current No. Ray too died within 48 hours of Mikes passing. McCarvers heart weighed around 833 gms, almost three times the size of a normal human heart (300 gms). Famous Austrian bodybuilder Kurt Marnul has passed away. She was named "6-pack granny" by Ripley's . Coroner Eric Armstrong said: "He was proud of his body but became 'overproud' and in attempting to make the most of his body, began to use steroids. 9 Biggest Female Bodybuilders of All Time 1) Chyna Born as Joan Marie Laurer, Chyna was a famous professional wrestler from the late 90's and early 2000's. She quickly became popular because of her huge frame and freakish strength. Lonniereminiscedthat at the 1991 Nationals in Pittsburgh, regarded by some as the greatest line-up of all time, saw Mendendall land in a distant fifth behind winner Kevin Levrone, runner-up Flex Wheeler, third place Paul "Quadzilla" DeMayo and fourth place Ronnie Coleman. He was named the The RockN Roll Wild Child which McMahon felt was suitable for his personality. The outspoken and beloved Rich Piana shook the bodybuilding world following his tragic death in 2017 at age 46. Attending bodybuilding contests and expos these days is not the same, without having the chance to catch up with John to share stories and learn whats new. Greg Kovacs 18. The pro-bodybuilder passed away on January 29, her sister announced online. Heres a piece of what Martinez wrote about Mendez on Instagram following his passing. Her IFBB Pro debut was at the Jan Tana Classic in 1998. He is also one of only two bodybuilders (along with Dexter Jackson) to win titles in both the Mr. Olympia and Masters Olympia competitions. In July, female bodybuilder Odalis Santos Mena, 23, suffered cardiac arrest and died following a botched operation to stop her excess underarm sweat. We managed to dig up an old interview we did with John back in 2019 at the Granite Supplements booth during the Vancouver Pro/Am. But at age 46, Piana collapsed at home and died a few weeks after being in a coma. Next Read:Samir Bannout Blames Bodybuilder George Peterson Death On New Coaching System. After retiring from competitive bodybuilding, Melissa went on to compete in the WWE and other independent wrestling federations, where she was known to fans as Super Genie. The Canadian bodybuilder competed from 1996-2004, earning his pro card in 2002. She competed at Ms. Olympia and other big shows while even becoming a nurse in the process. No cause of death had been announced. Fellow bodybuilder Josh Lenartowicz found him lying on the floor in his Florida home but it was too late. Rest in peace my brother.". The genie is out of the bottle now, and he is not going back inside until health issues concerning steroid use in bodybuilding are discussed openly, and rules to regulate their use are enforced. Pumping Iron Filmmaker George Butler has died. His best placing at a pro show was a seventh-place finish at 1990 Mr. Olympia. FEMALE BODYBUILDER DIED AFTER BOTCHED OPERATION IN JULY In July, female bodybuilder Odalis Santos Mena, 23, suffered cardiac arrest and died following a botched operation to stop her excess underarm sweat. McMillan's death was confirmed byGeneration Irondays earlier. Atwoods first competition was in 2000. He was a champion, and one of my closest friends, Tom and Becca are Godfather and Godmother to our daughter Milania. Prior to competing in the 212, he was one of the more popular competitors in the Classic Physique division. While he went on to four more books, this is recognized as his most famous published work. It came as a crushing blow to our Muscle Insider team and so many others in the industry when we heard the news that IFBB Pro Bodybuilder turned actor Andy Haman had passed away at the age of 55. While she did have some success as a junior tennis player, Coates became known as a trailblazer in both professional bodybuilding and pro wrestling. Haman graduated from the University of Iowa and went on to teach Physical Education and Health at Thomas B. Doherty High School in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Our thoughts are with Shawns family, friends, and millions of fans around the world. Daniele Seccarecci died at the age of 33 from a heart attack in 2013. ", But he admitted: "If you want to become a professional bodybuilder, guess what? We remember Mike as a veteran from the wars he served in (Bosnia 1996 and 1999, UN Mission Ethiopia) who proudly wore his uniform of the Canadian Armed Forces serving our country, as well as an accomplished bodybuilder. The man needs no introduction. In just 2021, 3 other prominent bodybuilders: Andy Haman, George Petersen, and John Meadows had also died. But unfortunately, he tragically passed away before his Pro debut of which he planned to compete in the 212 division. Matthew's other passions include learning about mindfulness, strolling through nature, traveling, and always working to improve overall. He earned his Pro card at only 21 years of age and it was evident he had all the potential. According to the gym owner where Hopstaken worked as a personal trainer,Hans got real sick about six weeks before he passed away. Here is a list of bodybuilders we've lost in the recent months. As he explained to me, after 25 years of steroid use, his bodys connective tissue was essentially coming apart at the seams. Throughout this past year, weve shared the news far too often of great names in the bodybuilding community that has passed away. It is believed that this victory was the impetus to create the York Barbell, in the small town of York just outside Toronto. Mike Horn passed away due to a cardiac arrest. We just want to take a moment to pay our respects to those that have touched our lives in a special way. Stacey Cummings, 30, was a mom and business owner in McKinney. But Wilson would ultimately succumb to skin cancer at age 67. He was a USA and National champ from the who went on to have a competitive career up until 2010. She then retired in 1981 to pursue a career in nursing which she had a passion for. Women's Physique bodybuilder Amy Richardson has passed away at 49 years old. "Theres no reason to do steroids, youre only hurting your body, youre hurting yourself. FollowingMeadows' death in August, fans speculated his passing may have been related to a heart attack the bodybuilder suffered early last year following a career that spanned 30 years. They were aged 54, 37, and 49 respectively. Well, we do not need to put on our thinking hats for this as this scenario has been playing out in real life in the pro bodybuilding circuit. "Dave Draper was an inspiration to millions of people all over the world, including me. Daryl Stafford started bodybuilding at age 25 in 1984 and earned his Pro card in 1993. Pit Trenz was a veteran of the sport from Germany and was the trainer of well-known bodybuilders Dennis Wolf and Markus Ruhl. Must Read: 21 Bodybuilders Who Died of Heart Attack Here are some common characteristics of steroids on female bodybuilders: 1. He was awardedbodybuilder of the yearby theAssociation of Sports Reporters of Santiago (ACDS)on several occasions. A post shared by Dan Alexander (@ifbbpro_dandan). Mitchell suffered his first heart attack after winning his fifth World Fitness Federation title in 2006. Jeff Everson -- a major force in the bodybuilding world -- has died, TMZ Sports has learned. 10 Best Preacher Curl Benches in 2023 (Review & Ranked), 6 Best Ancheer Treadmills in 2023 (Review & Ranked). The news of his death was confirmed by Olympia productions in an Instagram post. Related:Fellow Bodybuilders Pays Tribute To Dallas McCarver On His Death Anniversary. George Peterson 4. Upon meeting him, we became instant friends. He suffered many injuries which ultimately led him to focus on training others and Canadian television. A post shared by Markus Rhl (@markusruehl). In July, female bodybuilder Odalis Santos Mena, 23, suffered cardiac arrest and died following a botched operation to stop her excess underarm sweat. Horn brushed these symptoms off as nothing too serious and continued with his normal routine. Published: 14:40 EDT, 26 April 2023 . Dallas McCarvers autopsy explicitly stated that he passed due to an un-witnessed acute cardiac event, putting the food choking theory to rest. After finding solace in exercise, Shanique found a new lease on life at the age of 19. Email: sm(at)fitnessvolt.com Disclosure: FitnessVolt.com has an affiliate relationship with different brands and is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. Coroners pointed to a lethal combination of the steroid Mena was taking and the anesthetic, The New York Post reports. The athleteearned her pro card in 2018 and had competed in the industry for 10 years. Hewas the first African-American winner of the AAU Mr. America title and the first openly gay winner of the Olympia which he won in 1982. Tonya confirmed that Laura has been suffering with depression for a number of years. While he was informed that a part of his heart wasnt working properly at the time, he did get back to training. She developed a passion for fitness and had a good run in competition although not winning any major competitions. Although hed return to IFBB competition even competing at the 1994 Olympia of which he did not place. Jimmy had true artistry in his photography and was a pioneer in mastering lighting techniques that captured lines and shadows to fully seize the moment in a muscular physique that is now forever frozen in time. She nearly died of kidney failure in her adolescence because she used alcohol as a coping strategy. The two only competed against and met each other once at the 2013 Toronto Pro show. Later in 2020, John coached Missy Truscott to her Fitness Olympia victory, as well as Shaun Clarida to a 212 Olympia title. Despite her long career in bodybuilding, Thomas is perhaps best known as the subject of the 2005. Greg Kovacs is probably the biggest bodybuilder on this list. He was 78 years old. Not only was he a loyal and committed soldier in the trenches, he was also a loyal and devoted bodybuilder to our sport, contributing and supporting it through bursaries, donations, and giving back to the sport in so many ways. Sadly, Shawn Rhoden was banned from competing at the 2019 Mr. Olympia contest due to a sexual assault accusation. Most people get a gym membership to work on their bodies and improve their health. Following a second surgery, Dearth suffered a heart attack and died. The 43 years old Female Physique competitor died of a heart attack a couple of days after placing 16th at the 2019 Tampa pro show. Hans Hopstaken was known for being an NPC and IFBB masters competitor. Bodybuilding icon Jay Cutler enjoyed one of the most successful careers in the sport before stepping away years ago. Condolences to his friends and family." In 2018, she went on to pursue a career as a personal trainer, acquiring certification by the Professional Personal Trainers Association (PROPTA). Columbu was Italian-born of which he came to the U.S. in the late 60s although he had met Arnold Schwarzenegger in Germany before that. Required fields are marked *. With their bulging muscles and toned physique, many could be forgiven for thinking the athletes' bodies are in good health. Her IFBB Pro debut was at the Jan Tana Classic in 1998. Chester won the prestigious Mr. American and Mr. Universe bodybuilding competitions. Lonnie Teperlabeled him the "best NPC bodybuilder never to win a pro card" in Iron Man Magazine back in the day. Know as The Sardinian Strongman, Columbu was also well-known for his strength, having PRs that included a 750-pound deadlift, 665-pound squat, 525-pound bench press, and 400-pound clean and jerk. A Secaucus, NJ native, Draper won the Mr. New Jersey bodybuilding championship title at the age of 21. Cummings, who was born inFlorida, started in the industry in 2013 and earned her IFBB (International Federation ofBodybuildingand Fitness) pro card in 2016,Generation Ironrevealed. Columbu suffered a heart attack while swimming off the coast of San Teodoro, Sardinia Italy at age 78. Known in the Canadian Bodybuilding industry as a national competitor and contest-prep coach, Dustin was responsible for coaching and guiding countless clients to reach their fitness goals, which resulted in many trophies and awards in recognition of his clients achievements. RIP my sweet soul.. One that I am blessed to have had for so many years. Chet promoted drug-free training and had an awe-inspiring physique in his prime. It was heartbreaking news to hear reports that Karen died in a tragic snowmobiling accident near the end of March 2021. It made for a great friend. And of course, there are numerous bodybuilding and fitness magazines over the years you will find his face and physique gracing the covers of. He qualified for the Olympia thanks to his third place finish in 2020. She suffered cardiac arrest after receiving anaesthesia and died shortly afterwards. Sources close to Dustin say he wasnt feeling well, decided to lie down, and passed away in his sleep. She died in her sleep but her cause of death currently remains unknown. Figure International). He gave me the key to his gym in order for me to train at 6:00 am because his gym didnt open until 9:00 am. Ukraine IFBB Bikini competitor Zhanna Rotar moved to the US from her home country in 1996 at age 16. Bodybuilders Who Passed Away (2017-2020) Hide 1. Frank owned several gyms and was also featured on covers of many magazines because he had just won the Mr. Florida. Dearth had an accident with a horse at age 56 which resulted in a shoulder cuff and biceps injury. Bill was a friend and a great human being. Known as a Bodybuilder, a Soldier, a Friend, a Mentor, and someone who had a direct impact on so many lives in and out of the Fitness and Bodybuilding Industry. 2nd place - Women's Lightweight Division at Guam's National Bodybuilding Championship. This came as a result of her dealing with bladder cancer, a diagnosis that she went public about earlier this year. It just doesnt seem real to share the news that Muscle Insider cover model Shawn Flexatron Rhoden passed away from a heart attack at age 46. But, the star was forced to retire in 2002 due to kidney issues that were caused by a genetic blood condition. During that time, he had disappeared from the bodybuilding scene and instead focussed on running a real estate business with his wife. According to Georges coach, Justin Miller, he was energetic and on point, both mentally and physically, and hence the tragic news came out of nowhere. Make no mistake, this article is not about dissing the pro bodybuilders or their choices. At age 30, Sandoe took his own life after having been known to struggle with issues from his past. Rest in Peace, Bill. John Robert Cardillo. You are wise beyond your 6yrs and always know just what to do to make your daddy smile or laugh. Read more. A post shared by Victor Martinez (@dominicandominator). Stacey Bentley 13. 23-year-old Odalis Santos Mena, a female bodybuilder . Competing at 165 on her 5'5 frame, she gives herself an extra ten pounds in the off-season. At 50 years of age, Michael died at Hospice Fredericton on February 21, 2021. Gone to soon, rest in peace. She was a kind soul and a great role model for up and coming female competitors. Born in Thunder Bay, Ontario, Melissa began bodybuilding at the age of 15 to pursue her goal of becoming a pro tennis player! He earned his Pro card in 1993. Your email address will not be published. As often is the case, not many details were shared about just what happened, but supposedly she had a seizure in her sleep while her husband tried to resuscitate her, but he was unsuccessful. Dearth was a larger than life individual who was very open about his lifestyle, and he competed in the IFBB but then transitioned to Vince McMahons WBF (World Bodybuilding Federation) in the 90s for a brief stint. Died: June 26, 2006. Susanne Bock. Novoa Mendez was a Dominican bodybuilder who succumbed to a heart attack. Melissa earned her IFBB Pro Card in the early 1990s and went on to compete multiple times at the Ms. International (Arnold Classic) and Ms. Olympia contests. He was successful although his passing came much too early. A post shared by Fitness Volt (@fitnessvoltnetwork). Sportsmen effectively put their lives on the line to come out on top. Virginia-born athlete Prince, 52, passed away on February 5 with his wife by his bedside. Rhoden also added his own commentary to the quote, writing, "Real talk.". NABBA Mr. Universe competition was the premiere bodybuilding contest before the Olympia. He is most known for his iconic imagery of the bodybuilding greats from the Golden Era of the industry. He then went on to win the AAU Mr. California the very next year and from there, he won Mr. America and Mr. International. He passed away in 2001 at 49-years-old. The death of his beloved brother was too much to bear for Ray. Popular female bodybuilder Odalis Santos Mena died during a procedure to reduce underarm sweat at a clinic in Guadalajara, Mexico. Yorton also beat Frank Zane by one point in a competition. Legendary promoter and gym ownerBob Bonham passed away on October 3rd, 2021. Everson -- who founded Planet Muscle magazine -- was a competitive . The first signs of Dallas frailing health were on public display whenhe collapsed while posing at the Arnold Classic in Australia. Zhanna Rotar 15. Piana ran a YouTube channel where he gave inspirational speeches, workout advice, day in the life content and more. Stay on top of the latest fitness news and updates by adding. Wed hate to see promising talent give up on the sport due to health and safety issues. Maybe it was the heart attack that got him, or maybe Sergio Oliva Jr. hit the nail on its head when he said,Shawn Rhoden died because he couldnt do what he loved., Related:Guy Cisternino Goes Off On Scumbag Shawn Ray Over Disrespectful & Disgusting Shawn Rhoden Comments. He also loves to help others to achieve their fitness goals and spread the knowledge where needed. Less than three days before the 2021 Olympia weekend, one of the most popular stars of the 212 division tragically passed away. I tried it myself and found it credible and a great way to train. It, as his doctor told me a little while ago, was a good death. Laree Draper. He has been lifting since 2007 and loves sharing his hard-earned knowledge and passion for strength sports with anyone who would lend him an ear. He was the first Polish man to win the title of Master of the Universe and won several IFBB amateur shows. Not only did Bob own Strong and Shapely Gym, but was also a successful promoter anda mainstay of the bodybuilding community for decades. It has been a very tough year for the Fitness Industry as every month we were saddened by the loss of another bodybuilding legend in 2021, this time its Mr.Olympia Chris Dickerson. Rhoden said: "Be with someone who will take care of you. Mendez had health issues and suffered a stroke at 49 years old which resulted in his death. His close friend Bob Cicherillo had this to say of his passing.TOM PRINCE passed away early this morning with his wife Becca at his side. The event took place from December . While long-time bodybuilding and fitness businessman Bob Hoffman had already established York Barbell in York, Pennsylvania, the two businessmen came to a mutual understanding that they would not attempt to poach business from each others respective countries. Tragically, Chester Chet Yorton died at the age of 81, just hours after he found his wife dead (cause unknown). He placed first in the super-heavyweight class of the Junior USA. Bodybuilder Rich Piana overdosed at his Florida home on 10 August 2017. He died of a heart attack at the age of 47 in 2014. I LOVE YOU BOB & MISS YOU ALREADY!!!. The Women: Female bodybuilders say they were pressured to pose for sexual photos by the son of the man in charge of the amateur and professional bodybuilding federations. Who are 15 of the . Mike Mitchell is probably the most famous individual on this list. Michael Big Kentucky Thier, was many things to many people. Required fields are marked *. About one week prior to his passing, Shawn shared a series of pictures of his daughter Cora from Halloween to his personal Instagram account. This agreement was honored until 2004 when Irvine and his business partner, Peter Hallford, purchased the US-based York Barbell in 2004. This is without question our least favourite topic to cover, but these icons deserve to be remembered for the inspiration they provided, the lives they touched and how they helped shape the industry as we know it today. Hawaiian bodybuilder Ed Corney also appeared in the movie Pumping Iron with Arnold Schwarzenegger and other popular bodybuilders from the 70s. Karen Pang was not only a 3x Canadian National Bikini Champion, but also the owner of KaBling Designs, which creates elegant, custom crystal posing suits at an affordable price, a Personal Trainer, fitness model, and had recently launched a new podcast The WuPang Clan: Aint Nuthin to Flex With. But more importantly, Pumping Iron and Pumping Iron 2 helped popularize bodybuilding and weight training to the masses. By today's standards his physique would be considered small but his symmetry, round full muscle bellies and superb muscularity made him a worthy competitor and threat in every show he competed in. 2/26/2019 10:29 AM PT. On 15 August, 2021, Alena Hatvani Kosinov died just hours before stepping on stage to compete at the 2021 Europa Pro. "I sincerely hope that if nothing else, Ben's death reverberates around the bodybuilding world and people realize the risks they are taking. Footage of the last day Russian-born Aziz Shavershian, known as Zyzz, found unconscious in a sauna and died at the age of 22.