The 'Russian Hulk' died at 35: his heart couldn't withstand extreme bodybuilding

This impressive man, with records in deadlift, squats, and bench press, earned the prestigious title of Master of Sports in Russia.

Did you know that a lifter with those numbers reaches almost superhuman levels of strength? Well, Nikita achieved it. But the pressure to maintain and surpass those limits led him to resort to Synthol, a substance that promises bulky muscles but at a very high health risk.

A few months ago, a bodybuilder barely 19 years old also died

When Synthol Becomes the Enemy

Synthol is not a steroid nor a common supplement; it consists of oil injections that stretch the muscles to gain size in the short term. Yes, it sounds tempting, but have you ever thought about what happens inside the body when oil is injected? Well, the reality is brutal.

Nikita suffered severe organ failure due to prolonged use of this chemical. His lungs and kidneys began to fail, and sarcoidosis — an inflammatory disease that can affect various organs — further complicated his health.

In a cruel twist of fate, even COVID-19 worsened his condition, which is not surprising since we know the coronavirus can leave lasting pulmonary sequelae.

For months Nikita shared images from the hospital with his followers, recounting his ordeal. He underwent three surgeries, faced anemia, and kept fighting with the hope of returning. His strength moves me, but it also frustrates me to think about how much more damage could have been avoided. Why do so many people risk Synthol?

Perhaps because the bodybuilding market rewards what is visible, size, and not real health.

The tragic part is that Nikita already warned: “If I could go back, I wouldn’t do it. I ruined my sports career.” A painful regret that should make us reflect.

Legacy and Lesson for the Future

His wife María announced the loss with a mixture of love and sorrow: “His kidneys failed, he had pulmonary edema, and his heart couldn’t take it.” Additionally, the Ukhta Sports Federation mourned this tragedy that affects not only Russian bodybuilding but the entire global community that idolizes athletes. But, what can we learn here? Beyond the records and poses, health is irreplaceable. As a journalist and sports enthusiast, I insist that seeking professional help, avoiding shortcuts, and respecting the body must be law, not an option.

Do you know someone who admires the gym "giants" without understanding the sacrifices behind them? Perhaps this case can open eyes and spark an urgent conversation about health and physical culture. No muscle matters if, in the end, the body can’t bear the cost.

Nikita Tkachuk paid with his life a lesson that no one should learn too late. What do you think? Is a huge arm worth more than a full life?