John Meadows dead: World-famous bodybuilder dies 'unexpectedly' aged just 49

Bodybuilder John Meadows has died "unexpectedly" aged 49, leaving his family in "complete shock", according to a Facebook post written on behalf of his wife.

The professional bodybuilder, trainer, and nutritionist based out of Ohio, US, died "peacefully" at home on Sunday, the post reads.

“Dear Friends and Family, I am posting this on behalf of Mary," the post by a person named Brook Nappo reads.

"This morning John passed away unexpectedly and peacefully in their home.

“As you can imagine, this is a complete shock to her and the boys. She will update as soon as she can.”

The bodybuilder's cause of death is still unknown, but it comes after he suffered a heart attack in May 2020.

According to Barbend, it caused blood clots that resulted in him spending a prolonged time in hospital and doctors telling him that part of his heart wasn't working properly.

Meadows had a successful career in bodybuilding and coaching for 30 years, and despite suffering a major health setback in 2005 that would've needed him to have his colon removed, he managed to go on to win an IFBB Pro card.

But his setbacks shaped the way he went on to train and coach as health became his main priority.

He became an established coach and nutritionist with half a million followers on his YouTube channel.

And despite the heart attack in May 2020, he went back into training as soon as he recovered, playing the coaching role in Shaun Clarida's win at the Men’s 212 Olympia.

People responded to the announcement of his death by paying tribute to the bodybuilding star, with some branding him a "legend" in the industry.

Paying tribute, IFBB Women’s Bodybuilding Pro Theresa, said: “John Meadows was a legend in the fitness industry, and not only a coach but a best friend!

“We have created such a strong bond in such a short period of time. He is and always will be such a huge part of my life. I am so heartbroken to hear we lost one of the best in the industry.”

While president, CEO and founder of Blackstone Labs Pj Braun posted an archive picture of Meadows competing saying: "We lost a hero. A true 'good guy.'"

One fan commented on Facebook: "He has touched the lives of so many and left such a positive impact. Deepest condolences."

Another said he was "an inspiration to so many" while one echoed this saying "the world is worse off" without Meadows.