Fitness community reacts as Gabriel Ganley reported dead aged 22
Known to his fans online as ‘Bbzinho’, Gabriel Ganley was one of Brazil’s fastest-rising fitness influencers.
With over two million followers on Instagram, he found viral fame with a video showing his mega 500kg leg press. Ganley became well known for sharing his crazy progress (and controversial methods) in bulking up as an absolutely ripped body builder.
However, one of his sponsors, supplement firm Integralmédica, responded to reports yesterday (23 May) to say their ‘eternal Bbzinho’ had died at the age of 22.
Translated on Instagram, the company said ‘pain speaks louder’ as they announced his reported death ‘with great sadness’. LADbible has reached out to Ganley's rep for comment and confirmation.
While Ganley’s cause of death remains unconfirmed, the fitness community has shared tributes to the young man as they react to the very sad news.
Integralmedica wrote: “With great sadness, we say goodbye to our eternal baby, who lived intensely and with whom we had historical and unforgettable moments in the Integralmedica family.
“Today we lost a far more than a very talented and dedicated athlete with a bright future ahead. We lost a sports influencer who inspired thousands of young people daily with his energy, discipline and authenticity.
“Ganley left his mark wherever he went. His charisma, his presence, and his passion for life will live on in the memories of all who had the privilege of knowing him and walking alongside him.
“The reviews are on CT, the support to the fans he carried on his lap and his willingness to do good. In this moment of deep sadness, we unite in prayer in solidarity with the bbzinho and Integralmedica family.
“Rest in peace Ganley !!!”
According to an interview with Brazilian sports outlet ge, the influencer from Rio de Janeiro had started weightlifting when he was 15 years old. Although, his mum had banned him from going to the gym more than three times a week as she worried he would injure himself.
Fellow Brazilian bodybuilder Gabriel Zancanelli described Ganley as a 'unique personality' in their world, adding: "May God comfort his family and friends. Rest in peace Bbzinho."
And fellow lifter Ramon Dino described him as ‘always happy, always playful, always making those around him laugh’.
Another fitness influencer commented: "Very sad. Rest in peace. Your story will live on through the people you inspired," as others put: "Our eternal bbzinho, thank you for everything you did for us, may God comfort the family and friends."
Importantly, the cause of Ganley’s death is unknown but some members of the community say more needs to be done ‘to prevent more young deaths’.
It is reported the young man had previously used performance-enhancing drugs to boost his physical gains.
Topics: Social Media, Viral
Jess Battison