The bodybuilding world is mourning the loss of a beloved figure, Ricardo Nolasco dos Santos, better known as Kadu Santos. The 31-year-old bodybuilder and social media influencer passed away suddenly in Novo Hamburgo, southern Brazil. The cause of his death has not yet been revealed. His father, Amauri Santos, confirmed the news on social media, describing it as the “saddest day” of his life.
Santos was a highly respected figure in the bodybuilding community, having won the prestigious Muscle Contest twice and earning the title of bodybuilding champion 11 times. His recent engagement to his girlfriend, Sabrina Wollman, was a highlight of his personal life. The proposal took place on stage at an event in July, marking their four-year anniversary. Wollman, a personal trainer herself, shared her admiration and love for Santos on Instagram, posting about the moment he proposed.
In addition to his successful bodybuilding career, Santos was also a personal trainer and provided online consulting. He was known for sharing his rigorous workout routines and competition experiences with his 13,000-plus followers on social media. His dedication to fitness and his charismatic personality earned him a significant following and respect within the bodybuilding community.
Tributes have poured in from fellow bodybuilders and friends. Diego Wiegand, a fellow bodybuilder, paid homage to Santos, stating that “Heaven is definitely partying today.” He acknowledged the legacy Santos left behind and the impact he had on those around him.
Joel Rodriguez, an event promoter and friend of Santos, shared that Santos began his bodybuilding journey at the age of 17 with the dream of becoming a champion. Rodriguez described Santos as a “very charismatic, friendly person” who was loved by everyone. He also noted that the sport had lost an athlete with immense potential.
The training center where Santos worked, PowerCT, also mourned his loss. In a post, they described Santos as an “example of dedication, discipline, and companionship.”