Bodybuilding Icon Big Lenny Passes Away at 60 Due to Heart Failure

[MuscleMecca Crew]

The bodybuilding community mourns the loss of Lenny Persin, widely known as Big Lenny, who passed away on October 10, 2024, at the age of 60. Big Lenny was a larger-than-life figure whose unique personality and dedication to the sport left an indelible mark on fans and fellow athletes alike.

A Legacy Built in Iron​

Big Lenny's passion for bodybuilding was evident throughout his career. He was known for his impressive size and strength, as well as his distinctive appearance characterized by a distended stomach—a result of a condition known as Palumboism. This condition, often associated with the use of human growth hormone (HGH) and insulin, affects the rectus abdominis muscles, making them difficult to contract.

Despite not fitting the traditional bodybuilding mold, Big Lenny captivated audiences with his stage presence and unyielding determination. He competed in numerous events, with one of his most notable performances at the 2017 NPC Ruby Championship, where he secured a second-place finish.

Struggles with Health​

In the years leading up to his passing, Big Lenny openly discussed his battle with congestive heart failure. He believed that previous heart ablation procedures contributed to his condition, particularly affecting the left ventricle of his heart, which struggled to pump blood efficiently.

"Yes, congestive heart failure, which makes the left ventricle of my heart not pump blood out properly as it should. I firmly believe that those heart ablation procedures I had caused this problem," Big Lenny shared in a past interview.

Remembering Big Lenny's Impact​

Big Lenny was more than just a bodybuilder; he was a mentor and inspiration to many. His charismatic personality and positive outlook on life resonated with fans worldwide. Industry expert Jon Bravo reflected on Lenny's influence:

"He was a gentle giant, the biggest guy in the room, and if there's one thing we can all learn from Big Lenny, it's that he lived each day to the fullest. Each day, he had a smile on his face, and he found a way to make himself happy," Bravo stated.

Fellow bodybuilder Dave Palumbo also paid tribute:

"You were a unique man who carved out your own piece of bodybuilding history. You were an innovator; never an imitator. NEVER a cookie cutter! R.I.P."

The Delray Misfits and a Cult Following​

Big Lenny was a central figure in the Delray Misfits, a group of bodybuilding enthusiasts who shared his unconventional approach to the sport. His leadership and the camaraderie within the group fostered a community that celebrated individuality and defied norms.

The Rising Concern Over Heart Health in Bodybuilding​

Big Lenny's passing highlights a growing concern within the bodybuilding community regarding heart health and the use of performance-enhancing substances. His death follows that of Illia "Golem" Yefimchyk, another bodybuilder who suffered a fatal heart attack at the age of 36.

A Call for Awareness and Change​

The recent losses have spurred discussions about the need for increased awareness of the risks associated with certain bodybuilding practices. Advocates are calling for reform and better education on the safe use of supplements and drugs to protect athletes from unnecessary harm.

Offering Condolences​

We extend our deepest sympathies to the friends, family, and fans of Big Lenny during this difficult time. His legacy will continue to inspire and influence the bodybuilding community for years to come.

 

[rxmuscle]

BIG LENNY HAS DIED!



Dave Palumbo reacts to the passing of Big Lenny.

 

[BD Bodybuilder]

Big Lenny's passing highlights a growing concern within the bodybuilding community regarding heart health and the use of performance-enhancing substances. His death follows that of Illia "Golem" Yefimchyk, another bodybuilder who suffered a fatal heart attack at the age of 36.

Taking steroids adds muscle but subtracts years from your lifespan. "Live fast, die young, have a good-looking corpse." sounds cool - until it's time to pay the fiddler.

 

[KaiGold]

Taking steroids adds muscle but subtracts years from your lifespan. "Live fast, die young, have a good-looking corpse." sounds cool - until it's time to pay the fiddler.

It is true but they can be used safely. Unfortunately, most bodybuilders, especially those who compete, throw caution to the wind and go all out.