Brazilian bodybuilder Mailson Araújo has died just days before he was scheduled to compete in a major bodybuilding event, according to multiple reports. He was 35.
Araújo reportedly became ill and collapsed at his home in Alagoinhas, Brazil, on Monday. Despite efforts by his mother, who is a nurse, and emergency responders who arrived at the scene, he could not be revived.
The cause of death has not yet been released.
Hours before his death, Araújo shared photos on social media showing himself training in the gym and preparing for competition.
“In the process, enjoying every day,” he wrote alongside the post.
Araújo had been a professional bodybuilder for approximately three years. He earned his professional status in 2023 after winning the Arnold Classic South America title in São Paulo.
He went on to record several strong finishes in competition, including a third-place result at the 2023 Muscleman event.
Araújo had been scheduled to compete at this weekend’s Musclecontest event in Curitiba, a competition that serves as a qualifying opportunity for some athletes pursuing a place at the Mr. Olympia contest.
Following news of his death, fellow bodybuilders paid tribute on social media.
Professional bodybuilder Maiki Ono wrote that Araújo would be “greatly missed,” while Brazilian bodybuilder Lucas Moraes described him as a “giant.”
Officials have not released additional details, as the cause of death remains under investigation.
