Brazilian bodybuilder Ricardo Nolasco dos Santos, 31, tragically died from a stroke and lung complications days after his beloved cat, Baku, passed away.
Idman.Biz, citing The Sun, reports that known online as Kadu Santos, Ricardo suffered a week of “emotional distress” before collapsing into seizures and being rushed to hospital.
His mother, Iva Nolasco, revealed he was born with a bicuspid heart valve, a condition that contributed to his death. Ricardo, an 11-time bodybuilding champion, had recently become engaged to his personal trainer girlfriend, Sabrina Wollman, who described their time together as “the best four years of my life.”
Friends and fellow athletes remembered him for his dedication, positivity, and inspirational fitness routines. Ricardo worked as a trainer and online consultant, sharing advice with his 13,000 followers.
He passed away in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, and was laid to rest on October 21 in Novo Hamburgo. His death shocked the bodybuilding community, highlighting both his athletic achievements and the deep emotional bonds he held.
