The legendary Japanese bodybuilder Shigeru Sugita passed away at the age of 78-years-old on April 13th. He was perhaps the greatest ever bodybuilder in the history of his country, leaving behind a legacy that will live forever. Shigeru passed away from natural causes, as reported by the Tokyo Sports.
Shigeru Sugita has set many standards in the sport of bodybuilding, becoming the first Japanese athlete to achieve multiple things. Even after his competitive career, Shigeru continued to make an impact on a number of generations throughout the years.
Shigeru Sugita’s Career
Shigeru Sugita started his bodybuilding career competing on a national level, claiming podium finishes at the JBBA Mr. Japan in 1970-1971, but unable to take the win. However, it was third time the charm for Shigeru, as he won the show in 1972.
Shigeru Sugita made his debut at the NABBA Mr. Universe short the very next year, where he had an impressive showing, resulting in a second-place finish. Shigeru replicated the feat in 1975, narrowly missing the win once again.
In 1976 Shigeru Sugita achieved the greatest feat of his career, becoming the first Japanese bodybuilder to win the NABBA Mr. Universe short. Shigeru made a couple other appearances in the remainder of his career, with his win at the 1981 IFBB Mr. International (middleweight) standing out.
Shigeru Sugita wrapped up his career after a 14th-place finish at the 1985 IFBB Night of Champions. He was approaching his forties at the time and was satisfied with the legacy that he built. He walked away from the sport as one of the legends of the sport, paving the way for generations of Japanese bodybuilders to come.
Shigeru Sugita had some interesting experiences during his time in bodybuilding, from the time that Arnold Schwarzenegger marveled at his calves to the time when a crowd gathered during his public photoshoot in London. His physique was truly an incredible sighting, appreciated by both the athletes of the highest level and everyday people.
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The bodybuilding community has been struck by a string of deaths in recent times, with Shigeru Sugita’s passing being the most recent one. One of the most shocking ones was the unfortunate death of 20-year-old bodybuilder, Jodi Vance, as she tragically passed away during the 2025 Arnold Sports Festival. Jodi was reportedly throwing up the entire morning leading up to her death, resulting in speculation about the cause of death.
A bodybuilding champion, Suel Nogueira, also lost his life earlier this year following a motorcycle accident. On the other hand, the South Korean star, Kim Woong Seo, also passed away at 38-years-old in February.
The Fitness Volt team extends our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and all those impacted by the passing of Shigeru Sugita. Our thoughts are with everyone mourning his loss during this difficult time.
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