Bodybuilder George Peterson Passes Away at 37

George Peterson, a popular bodybuilder who competed at several competitions throughout the world, has passed away at age 37.

Wednesday on Instagram, the official Instagram account for the Mr. Olympia contest — a competition in Orlando, Florida, that Peterson was scheduled to enter — announced the tragic news that Peterson had died.

“It is with great sadness that we report the unexpected passing of George Peterson, a champion on stage and off. Our condolences go out to his family and all who respected and admired one of the kindest men we have ever known,” the statement read.

On Thursday, TMZ reported that Peterson’s coach and close friend Justin Miller reportedly found Peterson facedown on the floor of his hotel room.

Though Miller called 911 and was instructed to perform CPR, Peterson could not be resuscitated.

Miller adds that Peterson was in great spirits the night before he died and was excited for the upcoming competition.

After the devastating news broke, several members of the bodybuilding community paid their respects.

“I’m in shock George was an absolute legend. I was always grateful to share the stage with such a great man,” said Chris Bumstead, the reigning Mr. Olympia Classic Physique winner.

“Absolutely in shock by this. Such a great guy gone too soon. My prayers go out to his close friends and family during this rough time. We’ll miss ya champ!” wrote Shaun Clarida, the 2020 winner of the Men’s 212 division of the Mr. Olympia contest.

“I’m so sadden[ed] to read this. George was [an] incredible athlete, and a wonderful smile to see in any room. I don’t know anyone that had a bad word to say about this man, I’m seriously having a hard time getting my head around another young man lost. RIP George,” commented bodybuilder Flex Lewis.

Known as “Da Bull,” Peterson competed at Mr. Olympia four times, and won the Classic Physique competition at the 2019 Arnold Classic.