The world of strength sports is in mourning following the tragic death of celebrated bodybuilder and strongman Pa O'Dwyer at the age of 41. The news was confirmed on 3 January 2026, prompting an outpouring of grief from fans and fellow athletes across the UK and Ireland.
A Titan of Strength and Character
Known affectionately as the 'Limerick Lion', Pa O'Dwyer was a giant in every sense. After working on roads in his twenties, he turned to serious weight training and forged a formidable career. His immense power led him to a record five victories as Ireland's Strongest Man and the prestigious title of UK's Strongest Man in 2018.
Beyond his physical prowess, O'Dwyer was renowned for his warm character and infectious sense of humour. Fellow strongman and 2017 World's Strongest Man winner, Eddie Hall, led the tributes, stating he was "absolutely devastated" by the loss. Hall described Pa as a man who "brought strength, laughter and warmth wherever he went".
A Devoted Family Man
Central to every tribute was O'Dwyer's profound love for his family. He leaves behind his partner, Layna, and three children: Sienna, Rocco, and Freddy. Eddie Hall recalled that Pa would always say he loved them "more than life itself".
In a moving gesture of support, Hall has shared a link to a GoFundMe campaign established in Pa's memory to provide practical help for his family. The fundraiser has seen an incredible response, having raised £73,600 towards its £130,000 target at the time of reporting. Hall noted the loss has left a "massive hole, emotionally and practically" for a "whole family that loved and adored him".
An Outpouring of Respect and Sadness
The news has resonated deeply within the strength community and beyond. Online, many remembered O'Dwyer as a "funny, likeable man", with one recent video showing him playfully building Lego with his son. A post on Reddit expressed the collective shock: "This legitimately makes me so sad. He was such an incredibly kind and empathetic human."
Official bodies also paid their respects. The Irish Strength Association hailed him as "a legend in strength sports in Ireland". Meanwhile, Giants Live, the primary qualifying tour for the World's Strongest Man, celebrated his "larger-than-life personality", assuring that "anyone who met him will surely have a story to tell".
The legacy of Pa O'Dwyer is not merely one of trophies and titles, but of a charismatic, kind-hearted giant whose strength was matched only by his devotion to his family. He will be profoundly missed.
