The Scottish bodybuilder overcame anorexia to reach the Olympia stage and win two IFBB Pro League titles
The bodybuilding community is mourning the death of Alix Small, a two-time IFBB Pro League Fitness champion and Olympia competitor who has passed away at just 26 years old.
News of Small’s death emerged on Sunday, November 8, 2026. According to reports, the heartbreaking news was shared by her mother and best friend before spreading across bodybuilding social media accounts.
Fans and fellow athletes have since shared tributes honoring the Scottish competitor and her accomplishments.
A cause of death has not been publicly disclosed. Additional circumstances surrounding her passing remain unknown.
Alix Small’s Rise to the Olympia Stage
Small was a promising young competitor who earned her IFBB Pro card at just 19 years old.
Originally from Forfar, Scotland, she made her professional debut in 2021 and quickly established herself in the Women’s Fitness division.
Small captured her first professional title at the 2021 Europa Pro Championships in Alicante, Spain. The victory earned her a qualification for the 2021 Mr. Olympia, where she finished 12th in the Fitness division.
Her success continued in 2022 when she won the Mr. Big Evolution Pro in Portugal, securing her second professional victory and another Olympia qualification.
Small’s notable professional results included:
- 2021 Europa Pro Championships: 1st Place, Fitness
- 2021 Fitness Olympia: 12th Place
- 2022 Mr. Big Evolution Pro: 1st Place, Fitness
Despite qualifying for the 2022 Olympia, Small did not compete in the finals due to reported health issues. She did not return to professional competition afterward.
Small Opened Up About Her Battle With Anorexia
Beyond her bodybuilding accomplishments, Small spoke openly about overcoming anorexia and developing a healthier relationship with food.
In a 2021 interview with STV News, she revealed that she began struggling with anorexia at age 15. Her weight reportedly dropped to approximately 70 pounds before she discovered bodybuilding.
Small credited the sport with helping her focus on strength and performance rather than simply her appearance.
She discussed her recovery further during episode 115 of a podcast interview recorded when she was 22.
The conversation explored her 18-month improvement season, during which she gained more than 40 pounds. She also discussed reaching a weight approximately 70 pounds above her lowest point.
Small detailed the challenges of gaining weight, consuming approximately 6,000 calories daily, and training to improve specific weaknesses in her physique.
The podcast host praised her positive outlook and determination, highlighting her ability to redirect her struggles toward athletic goals.
There is no established connection between Small’s history of anorexia and her death.
Bodybuilding Community Pays Tribute
Following news of her passing, bodybuilding social media accounts shared photographs and tributes celebrating Small’s life.
Despite her short competitive career, Small reached bodybuilding’s biggest stage and captured two professional victories before turning 23.
Her willingness to discuss her personal struggles also inspired others facing similar challenges.
Generation Iron extends its deepest condolences to Alix Small’s family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time.
Image embed via Instagram @alixsmallll
