The fitness and bodybuilding community is mourning the loss of 26-year-old Alessandro Antonicelli. On Dec. 6, 2025, sources revealed that he finally succumbed to a rare cancer.
In August of 2023, he was diagnosed with a rare type of malignant bone cancer called chondroblastic osteosarcoma. Months after he found out about the illness, he was forced to have a procedure where doctors removed his femur, knee, and hip joints, and a part of his quad muscle.
These measures were taken after medical staff discovered a bone tumor. TMZ reported that the cancer had spread to his lower back and clavicle in 2024. While radiotherapy was offered to mitigate the issues, the cancer continued to spread.
Antonicelli was a die-hard bodybuilding fan. He traveled to events to meet with his favorite bodybuilders. At one point, the rising star had the opportunity to go to Gold’s Gym Venice, where he pumped iron around former seven-time Mr. Olympia champion Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Having competed in his first Paralympic weightlifting competition, Antonicelli was a source of motivation not just for the bodybuilding industry but for anyone affected by cancer. His harrowing battle has inspired many, leaving fans of the sport reeling over the tragic loss.
Fitness Influencer Alessandro Antonicelli Passes Away at 26 from Cancer
A GoFundMe page was created to honor his life after he died last Thursday. Donations have reached over $215,000 and will be given to the National Cancer Institute of Milan to further cancer research and treatments.
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With over 197,000 followers on Instagram, Antonicelli had a major impact on those around him. He regularly shared physique updates, training sessions, and didn’t shy away from revealing intimate details about his fight against cancer. He also encouraged others with clothing designs that read ‘Fu** Cancer’ and ‘You’re Not Alone.’
His family stressed that they will continue supporting his cause.
“We’ll carry on his Fuck Cancer project with the same determination he taught us: it’s what he would have wanted, and it’s the realest way to keep him alive,” the statement read.
Heartbroken fans on his Instagram gathered to pay tribute:
“RIP brother. Life is short. One day we’ll all meet each other at a better place.”
“R. I. P… Fly as high as you can pure and sweet soul. You didn’t deserve this ending given you had the will and strength to live. We’ll be with you”
“So young and beautiful in every way… ”
“In the hospital days we encouraged each other I am really sorry it’s not fair a big hug to your loved ones”
Sadly, the fitness community has been plagued with misfortune lately. Women’s bodybuilder Hayley McNeff passed away at just 37 years old. Months after her death, cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl were found in her system.
Alessandro Antonicelli leaves behind a legacy defined by strength. Our Fitness Volt team extends our deepest condolences to his friends and family.
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