In a truly saddening turn of events, the strength sports community is mourning the loss of professional bodybuilder Rich Piana. NY Daily News is reporting that Piana passed away unexpectedly earlier this morning after being in a coma for two weeks.
Piana’s wife Chanel recently tweeted, “I’m in tears writing this that @1dayumay has just passed away. I can can hardly believe this… I am so saddened & heartbroken that he didn’t make it.”
On August 10th, news broke that the 46 year old professional bodybuilder was rushed to the hospital due to health complications. Reports say that Piana had lost consciousness in his bathroom, and his wife Chanel was unable to catch him. When she called 911, they advised her to perform CPR, but she was unable to. Piana was then placed in a coma, which is where he’s remained the last two weeks. Exact details behind his medical complications and passing are still uncertain, and won’t be confirmed until the official biopsy takes place.
This loss comes with great sadness for the strength community. Piana was a professional bodybuilder known for his bodybuilding prowess, large presence on social media, acting career, and personal businesses. In addition, Piana featured heavily in the new “Generation Iron 2” documentary.
Many strength athletes have posted photos with Piana accompanied with lengthy descriptions mourning his death. Piana’s friend professional bodybuilder Phil Heath was one of the first to break the news in an Instagram post.
Heath wrote in his post’s description, “Just woke up at 2:30am to a few messages on my phone…I thought maybe this was all just a bad dream. This has been a very sad and heartbreaking week for many of us. May you rest in perfect peace Rich @1dayumay. I know my brother Dallas @dallasmccarver was there to welcome you.”
“May god rest your soul. My deepest condolences to @c_no5 , Rich’s family, friends and all of his Fans. We must celebrate his life and pray for the families of Rich And Dallas…may they find peace and understanding during this tragic time. Please keep your comments respectful.”
Piana is the second major named bodybuilder to pass this week. On Tuesday, Dallas McCarver was also pronounced dead. We’re sending our thoughts and prayer to Piana’s loved ones, friends, and family.
Feature image from @1dayumay Instagram page.
