Mailson Araújo, a 35-year-old professional bodybuilding influencer, collapsed and died suddenly at his home in Alagoinhas, Brazil, on Monday evening, just days before he was set to compete in a major professional competition.
Sudden Collapse After Workout
According to reports, Araújo had just finished a workout and returned home when he immediately felt unwell. He called his parents for help. His mother, a nurse, attempted CPR, but despite additional efforts by firefighters and emergency services at the scene, he could not be revived. He was pronounced dead at the home.
Hours earlier, Araújo had posted videos and photos of his gym workout and physiotherapy session on social media, where he had more than 32,000 Instagram followers. The exact cause of death has not yet been confirmed by authorities.
Tributes from the Bodybuilding Community
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."
Friends and followers left messages of sorrow on his final Instagram posts.
Career Highlights and Upcoming Competition
Araújo 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.
Alongside his athletic career, Araújo worked as an online sports consultant, regularly sharing training, nutrition, and recovery content with his fans. His body was laid to rest at the Jardim Paraíso da Saudade Cemetery in Alagoinhas.
