Bodybuilder Lenny Persin, also known as “Big Lenny,” has died aged 60.
The legendary competitor was reportedly suffering from congestive heart failure prior to his death over the weekend, The Sun reports.
The news was confirmed in a YouTube video by fellow bodybuilder Dave Palumbo on Sunday.
He said: “Big Lenny Persin is no longer with us. He passed over the last couple days, we’re not really sure exactly what day.
“He was suffering from congestive heart failure for quite some time now.
“Big Lenny was an icon in the sport. He carved out a unique niche for himself, leading a group of bodybuilders who went by the name of the Del Rey Misfits.
“He was their fearless leader.”
His official cause of death is not yet known.
Big Lenny was well-known for his eccentric appearance, especially his protruding stomach, and his larger-than-life personality.
Due to a disease called palumboism, which is usually brought on by the usage of HGH and insulin and causes difficulty contracting the abdominal muscles, he did not have the conventional bodybuilding appearance.
Big Lenny participated in multiple bodybuilding competitions.
In the most recent one, the 2017 NPC Ruby Championship, he finished in second place.
His goal was to be the biggest guy on stage and he was passionate about the sport, Fitness Volt reports.
Big Lenny was recognized for his extreme personality, unfiltered commentary, and non-traditional approach to bodybuilding.
He often discussed his views on life, philosophy and fitness in a unique, often outrageous way, which has made him a cult figure in online bodybuilding circles.
In another recent YouTube video, industry expert Jon Bravo also confirmed Lenny’s death while remembering his personality.
He said: “I had a chance to know him and he was a gentle giant, you know.
“One of the biggest guys, the biggest guy in the room and, you know, if there’s one thing we can all learn from Big Lenny is that he lived each day to the fullest and it didn’t matter if he lived in a rundown apartment filled with roaches and dirt and mould, each day, he had a smile on his face and each day he found a way to make himself happy.”
Bravo went on to send his condolences to Big Lenny’s family and fans.
He added: “I want to send my regards to all his fans, he was well loved in the fitness industry for so many years.
“He’s a staple of the fitness industry and he’s another one that we have lost too early.”
Tributes have since been pouring in for the late bodybuilder on social media.
One person wrote: “Now this is heartbreaking because that big gentle giant meant no ill will towards anyone that he might offend.”
