Amateur weightlifter Ronald Montenegro has tragically lost his life at 55. News of his passing was revealed by Daily Mail on Dec. 3, 2025, who shared a video of him being killed while attempting a bench press.
CCTV footage of the incident was released to the public. During the clip, Montenegro is seen struggling with a barbell on the flat bench press. Moments later, the barbell came crashing down on his chest. He stood up and bent over in agony before gymgoers and workers came to help him. He was taken to a nearby medical center and passed away.
Video of the accident can be found below; viewer discretion is advised:
@dailymailau 55-year-old Ronald Montenegro was taken to a nearby health centre but there was nothing medics could do to save the ‘much loved’ dad-of-two. The accident happened on Monday as Ronald worked out at a gym he trained at regularly in the colonial town of Olinda on Brazil’s north-east Atlantic Ocean coast near the city of Recife. The manager was president of a famous museum in Olinda housing the giant paper mache and cloth puppets, about 15 feet tall and weighing as much as 45 kilos, that are a traditional aspect of its vibrant carnival every February. Police opened an investigation into the incident but have already concluded it was an accident. gym accident news australia fyp
♬ A tense suspense piece on the piano(1270072) – illmatic studio
The accident took place on Monday, in Olinda, on Brazil’s north-east Atlantic Ocean coast near the city of Recife. The museum he worked at as president, Palacio dos Bonecos Gigantes, issued a heartfelt statement.
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“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Ronald Montenegro, our president and an indispensable figure in the history and construction of the Palacio dos Bonecos.”
55-Year-Old Man Dies After Freak Bench Pressing Accident
The museum made it clear how big an impact Montenegro had on the community.
“Today we have lost not only a leader, but a friend, a creator, a passionate defender of popular culture, and one of the people most responsible for keeping alive the tradition of giant puppets that enchant Olinda and the world,” it read. “His dedication, vision, and love for carnival have marked generations and will live on in every detail of our work.”
Following his death, Palacio dos Bonecos Gigante postponed its carnival until Dec. 5.
“Out of respect for his memory and the mourning of his entire family and team, we inform you that the activities of the Palacio dos Bonecos will be suspended, returning to normal on December 5.
“We appreciate everyone’s understanding and ask that you join us in prayer and tribute to this great man who left an eternal legacy to the culture and tradition of the Olinda carnival.”
His gym, RW Academia, also reflected on the loss in a shared statement:
‘The entire team provided immediate assistance, promptly calling for specialised help. Despite all efforts, we received the news of his passing with immense sorrow.
“We extend our sincere condolences to his family and friends, wishing them strength and comfort at this time of immeasurable grief. Ronald Jose Salvador will always be remembered with respect and affection by all who were part of his journey in our community,” it read. “We are fully available to offer all necessary support to his loved ones, assisting in any way we can during this difficult time.”
Some online have suggested that these accidents are precisely why lifters should always have a spotter helping them during workouts. In 2019, a man died attempting the bench press. While he was able to eventually push the weight off, he later collapsed to the ground.
Bodybuilding expert Bob Cicherillo has been open about his disdain for the bench press. He argued that it’s the single worst exercise in the world and said it commonly causes injuries like pec tears.
Police have already conducted a thorough investigation and confirmed Montenegro died by accident. Our Fitness Volt team wishes his friends and family well wishes during this difficult time.
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