The bodybuilding community is coming to grips with another crushing loss. On March 10, 2026, Craig Monson, known for his freakish size, passed away at 75.
Monson was one of the most imposing bodybuilders of his generation. He garnered international popularity thanks to his freakish physique, complete with massive arms and proportionate legs. His muscles weren’t just for the stage; he regularly impressed individuals with his strength at Gold’s Gym Venice and Muscle Beach.
Though he never became a household name like bodybuilding icon Arnold Schwarzenegger, Monson was a respected figure in the industry. He proved himself as an amateur onstage, having secured 12th place back at the 1985 NPC USA Championships. Beyond his competitive ambitions, Monson was beloved by fans and athletes, who always deemed him must-watch entertainment.
“Big” Craig Monson Dies at 75, Bodybuilding Community Pays Tribute
The unfortunate news was first shared by Rx Muscle – Truth in Bodybuilding:
“One of the LARGEST (and true “street bodybuilders” from the 80’s) and a staple of Gold’s/Muscle Beach Venice, “BIG” Craig Monson has passed away at the age of 75.
One of the true physical specimens from the 80’s era, who gained worldwide popularity around the world for his sheer freakish size, Monson would often attract sizeable crowds on Venice Beach to watch him lift mammoth amounts of weight,” Rx Muscle – Truth in Bodybuilding shared.
Fans gathered on social media to extend their condolences and pay respect:
“As a young Black man, and a frequent visitor to Venice Beach to stand in front of THE PIT, he was DEFINITELY someone I looked up to before I started lifting”
“I’ll dedicate today’s workout to Craig Monson by doing some of those old school skull crushers.”
“I recall seeing C.T. Fletcher say in a video that they used to call him Lil Craig Monson and he would say that he wasn’t Lil no damn body…Until he actually saw Craig Monson. 🤣🤣🤣 Rest Well Legend.”
“That boy was different ✊🏿”
“True lifters know this man by his biceps alone; I always loved seeing odd clips of him in the background at Venice beach.”
“RIP OG I chatted with him a few times on FB . He was the true mass monster and inspired us to train hard as possible”
“One of my mentors growing up, miss our days working together at dublins miss you big guy”
Monson isn’t the only notable bodybuilder from the Golden Era to pass away. Mr. Universe and Mr. America Pat Neve recently died at 78. Throughout his career, Neve squared off against bodybuilding royalty, including Robby Robinson.
Monson left an enormous impression on bodybuilding fans and helped others reach their full potential. Our team at Fitness Volt extends our condolences to his friends and family during this time.
RELATED: UK Bodybuilding Veteran Walter O’Malley Dies
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