The world of bodybuilding is processing the recent and sudden loss of Walter O’Malley, a pioneer, whose career spanned over 20 years. In an Instagram post shared on July 17, 2025, it was revealed that O’Malley died on Monday, as reported by his home gym’s account and family. At the time of this article’s publication, an official cause of death has not been disclosed.
“It is with great sadness that we regret to inform you all of the passing of our great leader, Walter O’Malley,” said Thomas Young, owner of O’Malley’s gym.
“A legend and a hero to all of us, take this day to remember the memories he gave us.”
In the 1970s, O’Malley made considerable waves in the international bodybuilding circuit. While most of his work and accolades were accomplished outside of the IFBB Pro League, that didn’t stop him from building one of the most complete and balanced physiques of his era. Even as he got older, fans and gym-goers were always impressed with his monstrous calf development.
He was a prominent figure in North West England, where he eventually opened up his extremely popular gym on Norman Street in Warrington. He was regarded as ‘The People’s Champion’ and was always willing to help others regardless of skill level.
UK Bodybuilder and Gym Owner Walter O’Malley Dies
Tributes have poured in since O’Malley’s passing around the age of 90, including from WWE Hall of Fame wrestler Davey Boy Smith Jr.
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“Sad to hear the news of one of my dad’s best friends, training partners, and someone who my dad very much looked up to- @walteromalley2810 from Warrington’s @omalleys_gym_warrington gym passed away. Sending my love to Walter’s family. Walter was a great man, father, and husband.
Even though I hadn’t seen Walter in many years, I have lots of great memories with all of us. I hope one day I can see Walter’s interview from my dad’s A&E bio that they didn’t include. He was one of first people I thought of to be apart of the bio, because of the bond and history my dad and him had.
I hope you and my dad have reunited and can get training session in🪽🙏🏼🕊️ RIP Walter ❤️ 1939-2025,” they wrote.
He built a respectable tenure in not just the NABBA federation, but also competed in the IFBB. O’Malley’s family also reacted to his death and thanked fans for their ongoing support as they navigate the gut-wrenching loss:
“Our family wants to express our heartfelt thanks for the immense kindness and support we’ve received since Dad’s passing on Monday evening. Your messages have been a source of great comfort during this incredibly challenging time, particularly for our mum, Brenda.”
https://www.instagram.com/omalleys_gym_warrington/p/DMN92qttME9/
O’Malley’s Competition History
1969
- Mr Universe – NABBA, Tall, 4th
1973
- Mr Britain – NABBA, 4th
- Mr Universe – NABBA, Tall, 2nd
1974
- Mr Britain – NABBA, 3rd
- Mr Universe – NABBA, Tall, 2nd
- Mr World – AAU, 2nd
- Mr World – AAU, Most Muscular, 1st
- Mr World – AAU, Tall, 1st
1975
- Mr Britain – NABBA, 3rd
- Mr Europe, Tall, 1st
- Mr Universe – NABBA, Tall, 4th
1976
- Mr Britain – NABBA, 6th
- Mr Universe – NABBA, Tall, 3rd
1977
- Mr Britain – NABBA, 4th
- European Championships – NABBA, Tall, 3rd
- European Championships – WABBA, Tall, 3rd
1978
- Mr Britain – NABBA, Tall, 3rd
1979
- Mr Britain – NABBA, 6th
- World Championships – WABBA, Tall, 6th
1980
- Mr Britain – NABBA, 7th
- Mr Universe – NABBA, Tall, 5th
- World Championships – WABBA, Tall, 6th
1981
- Mr Britain – NABBA, 6th
1982
- European Amateur Championships – IFBB, HeavyWeight, 5th
- World Amateur Championships – IFBB, HeavyWeight, 12th
1983
- Mr Britain – NABBA, 7th
1987
- Universe – Pro – NABBA, Did not place
1988
- Universe – Pro – NABBA, 10th
1991
- Mr Universe – NABBA, Masters, Did not place
Unfortunately, the sport has endured quite a bit of loss recently. Women’s Physique standout, Christina Bitner, tragically died at the age of 41. While there’s no cause of death that’s been publicly revealed, it’s still left the fitness and bodybuilding sector on high alert.
O’Malley represented the best our sport had to offer. Our team at Fitness Volt wishes his family and friends strength and resilience during this challenging time.
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