A 35-year-old Brazilian bodybuilder has died just hours after sharing images of himself working out for his next major competition, marking the second death of a young fitness influencer from the country in less than two months.
Mailson Araujo Santos passed away in his home in Alagoinhas, Brazil, on July 13, reported local media outlet g1.
The cause of Santos' death has not been released.
In the comments to his final social media post, Santos' followers shared tributes to the late athlete following news of his death. “Rest in peace brother,” one user wrote. “May God comfort your family at this difficult time.”
Another follower said that it was "really sad” to see the price that bodybuilders must pay in order to stay competitive.
His social media content on his final post included a tag for Metamorfose Brasil, a Brazilian fitness and lifestyle clothing company, which suggested that he may have served as an ambassador, model, or sponsored athlete for the brand.
Santos earned his professional status from the International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness (IFBB) in April 2023 by winning the overall amateur Men's Physique title at the Arnold Classic South America in São Paulo, marking a major milestone that allowed him to compete professionally.
After turning pro, Santos earned multiple accolades in Brazilian professional competitions. Outside the gym, Santos was known to celebrate his faith and sing at his local evangelical church in Brazil.