Guilherme Henrique, known as Gui Bull, was a well-known figure in the sport and fitness world in Maringá, a city in Paraná.
He excelled in the Classic Physique and Classic Bodybuilding categories and secured five overall champion titles.
He was on track to secure a degree in nutrition at the University Center of Maringá.
Henrique, who had a PHD in Biochemistry, also had an online training and diet consultation business, helping others live healthier.
After hearing the devastating news of the bodybuilder’s passing, people have taken to social media and paid tribute.
One person shared: “This still doesn’t feel real. Rest in peace.”
Another added: “My deepest condolences to his girlfriend and family.”
A third person wrote: “Such a heartbreaking loss. He worked so hard at such a young age. May he rest in eternal peace.”
Henrique’s girlfriend, Jéssica Belenello, also posted a tribute on Instagram for her late partner, saying: “I love you so much, my love!
“I wish I could wake up from this nightmare and feel the comfort of seeing you by my side again, holding me, telling me, ‘It’s okay, calm down! I’m here!’ just like you did when I’d wake up scared.
“I’m still waiting for you to come and tell me it was all just a joke, just one of your pranks. In the two years we spent together, I learned something I’ll never forget: that there are genuinely good people out there, people with kind hearts, and I was lucky enough to love and be loved by one of them — and that was you.”
The Parana Fisiculturismo federation has expressed its deepest sympathy following the news, stating: “Gui Bull was not just an athlete; he was a human being with a giant heart, who radiated energy and inspired everyone with his determination and sportsmanship.
“In this moment of pain and longing, we raise our thoughts and prayers to God, asking that He receive him in His arms and envelop him in His eternal light.
“May faith comfort the hearts of family and friends, bringing peace and serenity to face this difficult loss.”
Although the official cause of death has not been confirmed, Henrique’s girlfriend reportedly shared on Instagram: “The cause of death was asphyxiation due to bronchoaspiration and has no connection to the unfounded speculations that have been circulating.”
According to the National Library of Medicine, “Asphyxiation due to bronchoaspiration occurs when foreign material, such as food or liquids, enters the airways, obstructing the breathing passages and leading to a lack of oxygen, which can potentially result in death.”
Henrique is survived by his partner, Jéssica Belenello.
