She competed in the world’s most prestigious professional bodybuilding competition
Alix Small(Image: alixsmallll / instagram)
A Scottish bodybuilder who battled anorexia has tragically passed away at just 26 years old.
Alix Small, from Forfar, a two-time IFBB Pro League Fitness champion who reached the prestigious Olympia stage—the world’s most elite professional bodybuilding competition—died on November 8.
The athlete’s mother confirmed the heartbreaking news to Beyond The Stage TV, a bodybuilding news platform, as tributes flooded in from loved ones and fellow competitors worldwide. Alix’s cause of death has not yet been disclosed.
The Beyond the Stage TV statement said: “Shocked to hear the terrible news of the passing of 2 x Fitness Pro winner and Olympian Alix Small. I was passed this information by her best friend and mother earlier today. My thoughts are with her friends and family.”
Alix’s mother wrote: “My beautiful girl. Our hearts are broken.”
Kerry Sexton, a fellow IFBB professional, posted: “My heart hurts. Gone way too soon. She was such a lovely, special human. So many love and prayers to her family and closest friends.”
Phoebe Goodwin, another IFBB professional, shared: “I honestly don’t have the words. Alix, I still can’t quite believe you’re gone. You were such a funny, caring and thoughtful person, and I’ll always remember the kindness you showed me.
“I’ll never forget you being there for me when we got home after winning my IFBB Pro card. It’s a memory I’ll always hold close. Life is so incredibly cruel sometimes. I wish we had more time and more memories to make.
“Sending so much love to your family. You’ll be missed more than you know. Rest peacefully, Alix.”
Olympia coach Tamara Vahn commented: “Oh my goodness. I am shocked. I’ve been fortunate to share the stage with this incredible woman. My heart is sad. My condolences to her entire family and fitness squad.”
Whitney Jones, IFBB pro, said: “So incredibly sad. This is awful news and I pray for her family and friends. She was an amazing person.”
Corinne Bean, IFBB pro, added: “She was my first ever bodybuilding friend. We shared some struggles and wins. She confided in me a few times, but always seemed hopeful. Her mom @karensmall is so welcoming and supporting. Oh my gosh, I can’t imagine, Karen. I’m so sorry.”
Alix had been making waves in the sport, earning her pro card at just 19 years old and clinching victory at her debut pro show, the 2021 Europa Pro Championships in Spain, reports the Daily Record.
She followed this up with a stunning triumph at the 2022 Mr. Big Evolution Pro in Portugal, securing yet another Olympia invitation, which she was forced to withdraw from owing to health complications. She never competed again as a pro.
Throughout her career, Alix spoke candidly about her long-standing battle with eating disorders, which began when she was just 15 years old. What started as healthy eating spiralled into extreme starvation, as she fought against anorexia and then bulimia.
She credited her bodybuilding journey with helping her on the road to recovery, giving her a new focus on building strength.
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