The bodybuilding and fitness communities face yet another loss after the passing of Lenny Persin, also known as Big Lenny. In a recent YouTube video shared on October 10, 2024, industry expert Jon Bravo confirmed Persin’s death. While the cause of death has yet to be disclosed, Big Lenny was suffering from congestive heart failure leading up to his passing.
Big Lenny was known for his larger-than-life personality and his unique physique, particularly his distended stomach. He didn’t have the traditional bodybuilding look due to a condition called Palumboism, typically caused by the use of HGH and insulin, which makes it difficult to contract the rectus abdominis muscles. Despite that, he was still entertaining on the competitive stage, earning himself a large fanbase.
Big Lenny competed at numerous bodybuilding events, the most recent being the 2017 NPC Ruby Championship, where he took home second place. He had a passion for the sport and was determined to become the biggest guy on stage.
Bodybuilder ‘Big Lenny’ Dies at 60 After Battling Heart Failure
Big Lenny had previously revealed he had been suffering from congestive heart failure leading up to his death. In a recent YouTube video, Jon Bravo confirmed his passing at the age of 60 while remembering Lenny Persin’s magnetic personality.
“I have sad news to tell everyone that Big Lenny of the Del Rey Misfits passed away this morning and it was it was heart failure” Bravo stated.
Bravo shared clips from Big Lenny who explained his condition and what he believed it was caused by.
Level Up Your Fitness: Join our 💪 strong community in Fitness Volt Newsletter. Get daily inspiration, expert-backed workouts, nutrition tips, the latest in strength sports, and the support you need to reach your goals. Subscribe for free!
“Yes Lee congestive heart failure, which makes the left ventricle of my heart doesn’t pump blood out properly as it should. I firmly believe that those heart ablation procedures I had caused this problem with the left vent, I really do” Big Lenny had said.
Jon Bravo emphasized the impact Big Lenny had on him and recounts the many positive traits that he possessed.
“I had a chance to know him and he was a gentle giant, you know. One of the biggest guys, the biggest guy in the room and, you know, if there’s one thing we can all learn from Big Lenny is that he lived each day to the fullest and it didn’t matter if he lived in a rundown apartment filled with roaches and dirt and mold, each day, he had a smile on his face, and each day he found a way to make himself happy.”
Bravo made sure to send his condolences to Big Lenny’s fans and family as they process this difficult loss.
“I want to send my regards to all his fans, he was well loved in the fitness industry for so many years. He’s a staple of the fitness industry and he’s another one that we have lost too early.”
In addition to Jon Bravo, retired bodybuilder Dave Palumbo also reacted to the news of Big Lenny’s passing.
“It’s with a heavy heart that I report the passing of a legend in bodybuilding…. BIG LENNY …. There’s no official cause of death yet but I know he was dealing with congestive heart failure. BIG LENNY had a cult following of bodybuilders known as the “Delray Missfits”… men who marched to his drumbeat like the Pied Piper leading the children to the Promised Land!
Lenny always joined us on the After Hours Podcast any time I asked him; he agreed to fight Mr G for charity… and he always was willing to give his unique opinions on any topic. I will miss you Lenny… you were a unique man who carved out your own piece of bodybuilding history … you were an innovator; never an imitator … NEVER a Cookie Cutter! R.I.P.”
Illia ‘Golem’ Yefimchyk is another bodybuilder known for his monstrous physique who tragically passed away after suffering from a heart attack. Though he was only 36 at the time of his death, Golem left behind numerous accomplishments, including being able to bench press nearly 600 pounds, a feat his fans will long remember.
With the rise of heart attacks in the bodybuilding community, many individuals are questioning the safety of performance-enhancing drugs. Reform regarding the use of steroids could protect athletes from unnecessary harm and lead to fewer deaths.
To watch the full video, click the link below:
Big Lenny will be remembered for his charismatic personality. We extend our condolences to the friends, family, and fans of Lenny Persin during this difficult time.
RELATED: 21 Bodybuilders Who Died of Heart Attack
You can also follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and
YouTube for even more content.
