Cedric McMillan passes away, loss of a third athlete rocks bodybuilding community in US

Cedric McMillan, a world-class bodybuilder and former US Army instructor, passed away on Tuesday. The loss of a legend has shocked the bodybuilding community. According to his sponsor, bodybuilder Cedric McMillan took a year-long break due to a cardiac condition.

This is the third death of a bodybuilder in the United States in the previous six months, raising questions about the sport's safety.

In 2017, McMillan won the Arnold Classic and was recognized for returning Men's Open bodybuilding to its classic roots. After winning the 2009 NPC National Championships, McMillan became a professional. He then went on to win the Orlando Show of Champions, the New York Pro Championships, and the Golden State Pro Championships.


Cedric McMillan was facing health issues post-COVID-19

According to sources, he experienced a heart attack while exercising on a treadmill. He left behind his wife and four children. McMillan had previously spoken about his previous heart issues and a deadly experience last year, stating that he suffered from COVID-19. After suffering from COVID-19, he reportedly had breathing issues. Eventually, he was rushed to the hospital with pneumonia and placed on life support due to his breathing problems.

Due to health issues, the bodybuilder has been delaying his return to competitive bodybuilding since then, although he recently announced that he would be able to return soon.


Following the deaths of Shawn Rhoden and George Peterson at the end of last year, it is the latest in a succession of catastrophes to strike the sport. Both took place at an early age. The deaths continue to be a cause of concern for bodybuilders, whose usage of drugs has been scrutinized both within and outside the sport.

After hearing about the significant loss, tributes flooded in for a much-loved bodybuilding hero, whose 'classic physique' epitomized the sport's 'golden period.'