The bodybuilding community is in a state of mourning this week, as another brother in iron has passed away. This time it came in the form of Brad Hollibaugh, who has lost his life at the age of 54.
Largely competing during the 80’s and early 90’s, Hollibaugh was something of a mass monster during his time in the sport. With huge arms and a massive chest, the 5’9 bodybuilding oftentimes competed at a plodding bodyweight of 260lb.
After his career ended as a competitor, Brad was never far from the sport, working as a coach and trainer to younger athletes. He clearly found joy in helping others achieve their goals and sculpt physiques similar to his own.
Unfortunately, it seems that Brad Hollibaugh has passed away at just 54 years old. Although the exact cause of death has not been revealed, it has been reported that he was playing billiards with his friends, when he suddenly passed out, losing his life a short time later.
The news of his passing was broken by his ex girlfriend, Karrie Lynn. She posted to her personal Facebook page to reveal the tragic loss, and take a moment to mourn his passing.
“My heart is filled with such sorrow. My best friend went “Home” yesterday. Brad Hollibaugh, I can’t believe you’re no longer with us on earth school.
We started dating August 2018 and it’s been a blessing-filled 2 1/2 years. So much love, laughter and wonderful experiences that I will be forever grateful. In January, we decided to redefine our relationship due to the long distance status. We were best friends. We continued to talk or text almost every day as best friends do ending each conversation with an “I love you”.
He was and continues to be a blessing in my life. His favorite words to say were; “make positive impacts, go kick some butt and go make things happen.” I can see him in heaven free from his earthly body cracking jokes, flexing, playing pool and hugging his parents and brother, Scott. Thank you my love, and I’ll see you on the other side.”
My heart is filled with such sorrow. My best friend went “Home” yesterday. Brad Hollibaugh, I can’t believe you’re no…
Posted by Karrie Lynn on Monday, April 12, 2021
This is obviously tragic to hear, especially considering how young he was at the time of his passing. It is worth noting that he got a kidney transplant a few years ago, and this could have contributed to whatever caused his untimely passing, though that will not be known until a cause of death is determined.
Brad Hollibaugh Competition History
1995- Nationals – NPC, HeavyWeight, 12th
1998- USA Championships – NPC, Super-HeavyWeight, 14th
1999- USA Championships – NPC, Super-HeavyWeight, 11th
2000- Nationals – NPC, Super-HeavyWeight, 12th
2003- USA Nationals – NABBA, Medium-Tall, 2nd
Fitness Volt would like to offer our sincerest condolences to the Brad’s friends and family. He was seemingly a bright spot in the community, and will genuinely be missed.
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Published: 13 April, 2021 | 10:04 AM EDT
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I’m deeply saddened to hear of Brads passing. I talked with him last year around this time. Loved to work out at his World Gym in Vancouver Washington years ago. He was a great guy! He will truly be missed!
So sorry to hear my friend Brad for many year has left us. My condolences to his family. He will be missed
Mike g
Thinking of my friend Brad on this 1yr anniversary
Miss you much buddy
Mike g
Miss you my friend.
Mike gend
Thinking of my buddy Brad on his birthday today 11/23/22. We would of talked on the phone today for sure.
Powerhug my friend
Mike g
I lived in the same town as Brad
Remember seeing him for the first time at a gym called cascade fitness
He opened two world gyms I started training there and got to know him. Always friendly respectful and courteous. He was stronger than an elephant on meth and not someone you would want to tangle with. A 30 – 0 undefeated Idaho state champion wrestler.once an experienced wrestling coach of an opposing team informed his students that he decided he was going to teach Brad how to wrestle. The end result was the coach receiving 3 broken ribs in about 5 seconds. The last time I talked to him was on the phone about 20 years ago when I was in the process of buying supplements he was selling. Had a pleasnt conversation for about a half hour and remembered how humble caring respectful and courteous he was. It saddened me when he got into the seedy side of bodybuilding but do not judge but prayed for him
I loved the man