The bodybuilding world is being hit with yet another tragic passing from a legend in the sport. This time around, it comes in the form of Victor Richards, who was 56 years old at the time of his passing.
Richards was born in Nigeria, before moving to the United States. He is regarded as being one of the original mass monsters, walking around with a frame that measured well over 300lb, and looking incredibly jacked.
Sad news broke on Wednesday morning by Ron Harris of Muscular Development and other media outlets that Victor had passed away at the age of 56 years old. At the time of writing, there has been no cause of death determined, although some have speculated that a heart attack may have been the reason.
R. I. P Victor Richards, 56.
Posted by Andreas Cahling on Wednesday, November 10, 2021
The Life and Career of Victor Richards
Victor Richards was an athletic child growing up, finding success playing football, track and field, and wrestling during his days in school. However, it was the world of bodybuilding that inspired him from an early age.
Inspired by the likes of Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sergio Oliva, Victor began hitting the weights and growing into the massive frame he eventually would become known for. Interestingly enough though, he never competed as a pro bodybuilder, instead making a handful appearances as an amateur.
Instead, Richards made his name off of the back of doing a ton of guest posing spots, throughout the 80’s and 90’s. There was even one point, where he was seen doing a pose down with an off-season Dorian Yates, apparently even holding his own for the most part.
Contest History
- 1992 Nigerian Championships – 1st place
- 1989 Mr. Barbados – 1st place
- 1984 California Gold Cup Classic – 1st place
- 1983 Teen Los Angeles – 1st place
- 1982 American Cup – 2nd place
Victor Richards was by no means the most popular or famous bodybuilder out there, but he was clearly a pioneer for the types of mass monsters that are so well known today. There is even an argument to be made that he paved the way for the likes of Ronnie Coleman, Phil Heath, and Big Ramy, showing that it was possible to be freaky and still have a solid physique.
It is quite tragic to hear the news of his untimely passing, and it accentuates the issues that have been plaguing the sport over the last several months. There has been an increased amount of deaths in the sport, with the likes of Shawn Rhoden, George Peterson, and John Meadows, among many others, and its is becoming difficult to see.
Victor Richards Phots
Fitness Volt would like to offer our sincerest condolences to the friends and family of Victor Richards. He will certainly be missed.
