Brazilian bodybuilder and fitness influencer Gabriel Ganley’s cause of death has been reported as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy after he died at 22.
The update came from the New York Post, citing G1 Globo and Ganley’s death certificate. Ganley was found dead inside his São Paulo apartment on Saturday, May 24, 2026.
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, often shortened to HCM, is a condition in which the heart muscle becomes thickened. The Mayo Clinic notes that the thickened muscle can make it harder for the heart to pump blood and may contribute to dangerous irregular heartbeats or sudden death.
What Was Reported About Gabriel Ganley’s Death
Ganley was reportedly found face-down in his apartment after a friend had not heard from him for two days. Building staff helped the friend enter the unit, according to reports citing São Paulo’s Public Security Secretariat. Officials had not publicly confirmed the exact time of death.
Authorities initially registered the case as “suspicious death — sudden death.” The Public Security Secretariat said no apparent signs of violence were found at the scene.
Reports also stated that investigators found several medications in the apartment, including possible anabolic steroids. No report cited by the New York Post established those items as the cause of death.
Ganley, known online as “Bbzinho,” had built a large fitness audience with 2.4 million Instagram followers. He regularly shared training photos and physique updates and was preparing for Musclecontest Brazil in July.
Sponsor Pays Tribute to Gabriel Ganley
Integral Médica, one of Ganley’s sponsors, issued a tribute after his death.
“Today, the pain speaks louder (…) we lost much more than a talented and dedicated athlete with a bright future ahead. We lost a sports influencer who inspired thousands of young people daily with his energy, discipline, and authenticity,” the company said, according to the New York Post.
“Ganley left his mark wherever he went. His charisma, his presence, and his passion for life will remain alive in the memories of all who had the privilege of knowing him and walking alongside him.”
Fitness Community Reacted to Ganley’s Death
Ganley’s death drew widespread attention because of his age, following, and active competition plans. FitnessVolt previously reported that Ganley died at 22 after Brazilian outlets first covered the case.
The bodybuilding community has lost several notable names in recent years, including Albert Beckles, who died in May at 95. Ganley’s case is different in scale and circumstance: he was a young, active influencer preparing to compete when the death investigation began.
The case remains under review by São Paulo authorities, but the death certificate cited in the latest report lists hypertrophic cardiomyopathy as Ganley’s cause of death.
Featured image via @ganleygabriel / Instagram
