'Very sad': World rocked by body building icon's tragic death at 44

The sporting world has been rocked by news of Cedric McMillan's tragic death, with the body building icon dying of a heart attack at the age of 44.

Renowned as a “world class” body builder, McMillan passed away this week after suffering a heart attack while training, Generation Iron reported.

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McMillan won the Arnold Classic in 2017 and finished in sixth placed in the Arnold Classic Columbus in 2020.

He suffered a heart attack while on a treadmill, according to Generation Iron.

“RIP Cedric McMillan. We are very sad to report that Cedric passed away at 44 years old,” Generation Iron tweeted.

“GI sends condolences to friends and family during this time.”

RXMuscle wrote on Facebook: “Cedric, a truly great bodybuilder and one of the most entertaining to ever grace the stage, will be remembered for his generosity toward his fans.

“He gave his time and energy towards connecting and inspiring, completely aware of his stature as a bodybuilding icon.

“Cedric was an American hero, who was proud to be an American and to serve his country in our armed forces. We will never forget his service to our country.

“A dedicated family man, Cedric was a pure inspiration for bodybuilders and people to look up to. He will be greatly missed, by all.”

"He gave his time and energy toward connecting and inspiring, completely aware of his stature as a bodybuilding icon."

Another tweet read: “R.I.P. to one of my favourite bodybuilders and best personality in professional bodybuilding Cedric McMillan."

McMillan had opened up about heart issues and having a near-death experience in the past.

Before his tragic death, the 44-year-old had seemed optimistic about making a return to competition after delaying his comeback because of health issues.

McMillan experienced breathing difficulties after contracting Covid-19 in 2021 and was hospitalised for pneumonia, where he was put on life support.

“I was almost dead,” he said about the ordeal.

Tributes roll in after news of Cedric McMillan's death

Following news of McMillan's death, tributes have been pouring in across the sporting world.

“RIP Cedric McMillan,” professional wrestler Kenny Omega wrote.

“We only had one opportunity to work together but I’ll never forget the laughs and stories. An incredible athlete/bodybuilder all while serving his country and being a stand up guy.”

“I’ll never forget when @CedricMcMillan commented on my home gym & joked he was coming over to train,” fitness trainer Matt Weik wrote.

“He was everything this industry needed. We’ve lost WAY too many lately. Thank you for your service and for what you’ve brought to the industry. RIP Cedric.”

with agencies

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