'World's most monstrous bodybuilder' dies at 36, days after heart attack. Had 16,500 calories per day, 7 meals

Standing 6 feet tall and weighing over 340 pounds, Illia Yefimchyk was celebrated in the bodybuilding world for his immense size

Illia Yefimchyk, a Belarusian bodybuilder known for his imposing physique and massive caloric intake, passed away last week at the age of 36. His death was confirmed on Wednesday by the bodybuilding community through the Instagram account @whoisthebestbb. Reports indicate that Yefimchyk, often referred to as “Golem” or “The Mutant,” suffered a heart attack at his home on 6th September before falling into a coma.

His wife, Anna, recounted the harrowing details of the incident, stating that she attempted chest compressions while waiting for emergency services to arrive. Despite briefly showing signs of recovery, Yefimchyk was declared brain dead by doctors. “His heart started beating again for two days, but the doctor gave me the terrible news that his brain had died,” she said. Yefimchyk remained in a coma before succumbing to his condition. Anna expressed her gratitude for the support she received during this difficult time, noting, “It’s heartwarming to realise that I am not left alone in this world.”

Standing 6 feet tall and weighing over 340 pounds, Yefimchyk was celebrated in the bodybuilding world for his immense size and strict discipline. He maintained his remarkable frame with a rigorous diet, consuming up to 16,500 calories per day spread across seven meals. His meals reportedly included large quantities of steak and sushi, enabling him to maintain 25-inch biceps.

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A post shared by Illia Yefimchyk (@golem_illia)

Although Yefimchyk did not compete professionally, his impressive training regimen and strength—capable of lifting 600-pound bench presses and 700-pound squats—garnered him a significant following online, with over 100,000 fans across social media platforms.

Yefimchyk drew inspiration from legendary figures in bodybuilding such as Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sylvester Stallone, whose physical achievements motivated him to begin lifting weights.

The bodybuilder’s death follows similar incidents in the world of bodybuilding, including the recent deaths of Neil Currey, a British bodybuilder, and Brazilian competitor Antonio Souza, both of whom passed away due to health complications linked to their athletic lifestyles. Currey, aged 34, was found dead in September 2023, with his family citing the prolonged use of steroids as a potential cause. Souza, aged 26, died from cardiac arrest shortly after finishing in the top three at a competition in early August.