Bodybuilding influencer Mailson Araújo, 35, was preparing for a competition and had just finished a workout when he suddenly died at his home in Brazil
A bodybuilding influencer collapsed and died suddenly shortly after returning home from a workout.
Mailson Araújo, who was preparing for a major professional competition, died at home in Alagoinhas, Brazil on Monday evening.
The 35-year-old immediately felt unwell and called his parents for help after getting back from the training session. His mother, a nurse, attempted CPR but he could not be revived despite efforts by firefighters and emergency services at the scene.
Mailson, a professional Men’s Physique athlete with more than 32,000 Instagram fans, was pronounced dead at the home. Hours earlier, he had posted videos and photos of his gym workout and physiotherapy session on social media.
The exact cause of death has not yet been confirmed by the authorities. Tributes have poured in from the bodybuilding community.
One page wrote: “Brazil Bodybuilding News offers its most sincere condolences to his friends, family and the entire bodybuilding community.
“May God comfort everyone’s hearts in this very difficult moment.”
Mailson turned professional in 2023 after winning the amateur title at the Arnold Classic South America in São Paulo.
He earned several strong placings, including third at Musclecontest Brazil 2023, fifth in his pro debut at Bahia Pro 2023, and additional top-four finishes.
He was set to compete at the prestigious Musclecontest Brazil 2026 this weekend in Curitiba, marking a return to the stage after a lighter competitive schedule.
Mailson worked as an online sports consultant alongside his athletic career, regularly sharing training, nutrition and recovery content with his fans.
Friends and followers left messages of sorrow on his final Instagram posts.
His body was laid to rest at the Jardim Paraíso da Saudade Cemetery in Alagoinhas.
