The global fitness community is mourning the shocking and unexpected death of Brazilian bodybuilding champion and influencer Ricardo Nolasco dos Santos, popularly known as Kadu Santos.
The 31-year-old athlete reportedly died suddenly in Novo Hamburgo, southern Brazil, on Monday, October 20.
His passing comes just weeks after he made headlines for proposing to his longtime girlfriend, personal trainer Sabrina Wollman, on stage during a bodybuilding competition.
Although the cause of his death has not been made public, tributes have poured in from friends, family, and fans who described Santos as a source of inspiration, discipline, and positivity.
“The saddest day of my life. My beloved son,” his devastated father, Amauri Santos, wrote on social media while confirming the news of his son’s death.
Kadu Santos, an 11-time bodybuilding champion and two-time overall winner of the prestigious Muscle Contest, had built a respected reputation in the fitness world.
Moreover, he had recently taken his career to new heights by working as an online fitness coach and sharing workout content with thousands of followers.
Sabrina Wollman, his fiancée, expressed her heartbreak on Instagram, recalling their shared journey.
“I love you with all my heart. I admire you and I’m very proud of who we’ve become together over the years,” she wrote, alongside photos from the emotional on-stage proposal in July.
She continued, “Thank you for always making me the best version of myself. I choose you every day to share this crazy life with!”
Meanwhile, several figures in Brazil’s fitness scene have paid tribute to Santos.
Fellow bodybuilder Diego Wiegandwrote, “Heaven is definitely partying today,” in a heartfelt post honoring his late colleague.
Event promoter Joel Rodríguez also remembered Santos as a determined athlete who began training at the age of 17. “He fought hard for this to happen.
