Bodybuilding champion, 31, dies just months after proposing to girlfriend

Tributes have poured in for a renowned Brazilian bodybuilder and influencer who tragically passed away at just 31 years old, shortly after becoming engaged to his personal trainer girlfriend. Ricardo Nolasco dos Santos' father, Amauri Santos, shared a heartbreaking social media message following news of his son's death, announcing funeral arrangements with the words: "The saddest day of my life. My beloved son."

The fitness enthusiast, widely recognised as Kadu Santos, had claimed victory in bodybuilding competitions on 11 occasions and secured the overall champion title twice at a prestigious regional Muscle Contest event. He regularly displayed his gruelling workout sessions and impressive physique to his 13,000 Instagram followers, whilst also providing fitness guidance and training tips.

Among his social media posts was a touching image of him proposing on one knee to Sabrina Wollman, whom he had been romantically involved with since August 2021, with their engagement taking place on July 19 this year.

She expressed her feelings at the time, saying: "I love you with all my heart, I admire you and I'm very proud of what we have become together throughout these years.

"Thank you for helping me become the best version of myself. I choose you every day to share this mad life with you."

Kadu, who combined his competitive career with work as a fitness instructor and digital consultant, passed away on Monday in the southern Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul. The circumstances surrounding his death remain undisclosed.

His funeral service was held on Tuesdayin Novo Hamburgo, located on the outskirts of Porto Alegre, following a period of mourning.

In a heartfelt tribute on social media, friend and fellow bodybuilder Diego Wiegand said: "Today, heaven is certainly celebrating. Kadu was a person who was completely out of the ordinary, incredible as an athlete, coach, and even more so as a person.

"It is with great sadness that I say goodbye to you today. It is very difficult to accept, and I still haven't come to terms with it, but you have left a legacy here on earth and will always be remembered by everyone for the man you were! I love you, brother."

PowerCT, the training centre where he worked, expressed their sadness over his passing, writing: "Kadu was always an example of dedication, discipline and companionship, leaving a mark of inspiration among colleagues, teachers and friends."

Details of Kadu's funeral were shared on Instagram by his fiancee, who has yet to make any official comment.