Antônio Leso Brás de Souza, a 26-year-old Brazilian bodybuilder, died from a heart attack after a bodybuilding competition at the Navega Open in Navegantes, Santa Catarina, Brazil on August 3, 2024. He had just won a trophy for a top-three finish in his classification. Despite the rapid response of on-site medical personnel, efforts to revive him were unsuccessful.
Before the competition, De Souza posted a video on Instagram in which he conveyed his excitement and optimism to his followers. He mentioned that he was heading to the weigh-in and hoped for success with divine favor. He also commented on his lean appearance, noting that it was evident from his face. His confident demeanor was well-recognized by his more than 9,000 followers on the platform.
De Souza’s wife, Yone Farias, confirmed his passing and expressed her sorrow on social media. She said that she would remember him fondly and that although his life had ended, her love for him would endure forever. Her sincere tribute touched fans who admired De Souza’s commitment to bodybuilding.
His sister, Mary Braz, highlighted his dedication: “His dream was to be recognized for doing what he loved and to be able to give our mother a better life.”
Reports revealed that De Souza had been experiencing chest pains before the competition. According to Farias, he had used diuretics, a common practice among bodybuilders, to reduce water retention and achieve a lean physique. This practice may have contributed to his dehydration and subsequent heart attack.
De Souza began his bodybuilding journey at the age of 15 and had been competing professionally for five years. His achievements included several prestigious titles from 2020 to 2022, cementing his status as a prominent figure in the bodybuilding community.
The Navega Open organizers issued a statement acknowledging the loss of a passionate and driven athlete. “Our condolences to the family and friends for this inestimable loss,” they stated.
De Souza’s body was transported back to his hometown of Manaus, where a funeral was held on August 6. Family, friends, and fellow athletes gathered to honor his memory and celebrate his contributions to the sport.
The sudden death of De Souza has prompted discussions about the health risks associated with competitive bodybuilding. The use of diuretics and the extreme demands of the sport underscore the importance of closely monitoring athletes’ health. His legacy will continue to inspire bodybuilders, reminding them of the dedication and perseverance required to excel in the sport.
Through his achievements and the impact he made on those around him, Antônio Leso Brás de Souza will be remembered as a passionate athlete who gave his all to bodybuilding.