Mr. Olympia champion Shawn Rhoden has reportedly died at the age of 46 due to a heart attack according to sources close to Generation Iron.
The publication said Rhoden’s trainer, Chris Aceto, also confirmed the bodybuilder’s death to close friends.
Posts on social media from fellow athletes, experts and fans began pouring in for the late star on Saturday morning.
One fan wrote on Twitter: “RIP Shawn Rhoden. Very sad news and a travesty that you never had another chance to win Mr O!”
Another said: “Still can’t believe it. Rest in power Shawn Rhoden.”
Friends and fans also paid tribute to the star on his final Instagram post, shared on his account three days ago.
The post read: “Brick by brick and patience it will take. See you on the other side.”
Friend Rob Bailey wrote: “One of the greatest. we had so many good times together. You will be missed man.”
Bradley Martin added: “Such a kind soul. Rest In Peace.”
Rhoden won the 2018 Mr. Olympia contest by defeating seven-time Mr. Olympia Phil Heath. He was the oldest bodybuilder to win the Mr. Olympia title, at the age of 43 years and five months.
Many controversies followed as he was accused of rape in October 2018. It was revealed that an arrest warrant was issued and bail was set for $750,000. Shortly after the story surfaced, he was banned from competing at the 2019 Mr. Olympia and future Mr. Olympia competitions.
In July 2019, he was formally charged in the state of Utah with rape, object rape and sexual abuse.
It was alleged that Rhoden invited a married woman who he had been mentoring to his hotel room in Salt Lake, where the reported actions took place.
