It is a sad day for the bodybuilding world as one of its iconic stars, Albert Beckles, passed away. The Barbados-born British bodybuilder was 95. RxMuscle announced the news of his passing on May 16.

Beckles was born on July 14, 1930, in Barbados, and later moved to London and slowly became a well-known figure in the British bodybuilding scene. He was known for having one of the best physiques throughout the 1970s and 1980s. His symmetry, aesthetics, and unmatched conditioning set him apart from other bodybuilders in his class.

He competed against some of the biggest names in bodybuilding, including Arnold Schwarzenegger and Lee Haney. Despite retiring from professional bodybuilding, Beckles maintained an elite-level physique well into his later years.

Among many of his achievements, his most notable are winning the 1965 NABBA Mr. Britain, being the runner-up at Mr. Britain in 1968 and 1969, and winning the NABBA Mr. Britain and Mr. Europe. His other pro achievements include

• 1981 IFBB Grand Prix New England
• 1982 Night of Champions
• 1982 World Pro Championships
• 1984 Canada Pro Cup
• 1984 World Grand Prix
• 1984 World Pro Championships

Beckles made his Olympia debut in 1977, and in 13 appearances, he had six top-five finishes. His best results include placing third in 1975, fifth in 1982, fourth in 1984, second in 1985, and fourth again in 1986. During the 1985 appearance, he managed to finish second to Lee Haney at the age of 55. 

Many fans and noted names from the bodybuilding world expressed condolences for the legendary star.

Fans and Pros React to Beckles’ Passing

The bodybuilding world is in shock at the loss of one of its greats, and the fans are with them. The news was received with an outpouring of tributes, condolences, and heartfelt messages from across the fitness and fan community.

One user wrote, "One of the greatest to ever do it! Truly a beautiful physique!"

The outpouring of love for the bodybuilder was showing through comments like these,

“RIP One of the greatest of all time” and "A great Bodybuilder and an even Better Man! Rest in Peace, Legend."

Marvelling at the age of the legendary bodybuilder, one fan noted, 

"Want to see more bodybuilders hit 100 or get close to that age."

Many greats from the bodybuilding world also paid tribute to the icon.

Eight-time Ms. Olympia, Lenda Murray, also commented, 

"A Pioneer. He loved a long and obviously peaceful life. Competed successfully into his 60’s."

Milos Sarcev paid tribute to Beckles on his Instagram page. He uploaded a video with old clips of the two competing together. He wrote, 

"Rest in Peace, legendary Albert Beckles. I just read the heartbreaking news of the passing of one of bodybuilding’s true icons."

8x Mr. Olympia Lee Haney honored Beckles on his Instagram page, with a long caption remembering his legacy and impact on the sport.

The Bodybuilding world will remember Beckles for the legend he was.

May he rest in peace.

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Written by

Ruwa Javed

Edited by

Zaid Quraishi