Bodybuilder Cedric McMillan Reportedly Dies Of Heart Attack While On The Treadmill

Bodybuilder and 2017 Arnold Classic Champion Cedric McMillan reportedly died Tuesday at the age of 44.

The news was shared by his longtime sponsor, Black Skull USA, on their Instagram account. McMillan's family hasn't released a statement yet.

While an official cause of death has not been revealed, media reports said McMillan suffered a heart attack while on a treadmill.

"We regret to inform you that our friend and brother @cedricmcmillan passed away today. Cedric will be greatly missed as an athlete, comrade, friend, and father. Our prayers are with all his family and friends. He 'fought the good fight' and now he rests," Marcelo Bella of Black Skull USA wrote.

McMillan, who was born on Aug. 16, 1977, worked in the United States Army before starting his professional bodybuilding career. According to Muscle Memory, McMillan’s first bodybuilding show was the 2007 National Physique Committee (NPC) South Carolina State contest, where he placed first overall. He won the overall at the 2009 NPC Nationals, getting himself the International Federation of BodyBuilding and Fitness Pro League status.

In 2011, he won the Orlando Show of Champions and the following year he won the 2012 New York Pro.

Due to his recent health issues, McMillan had been postponing his return to competitive bodybuilding. McMillan told GI magazine in an interview in November 2021 he had tested positive for COVID-19 in 2020, which led to heart and breathing issues. He was also later diagnosed with pneumonia. The COVID-19 complication was so severe that he had to be put on life support. Recalling the incident at the time, McMillan said, “I was almost dead.”

After he recovered from the post-COVID situation, McMillan returned to guest pose at the Armed Forces National 2021.

In February, McMillan announced his resignation from the Arnold Classic via Instagram, citing health issues.

McMillan was famous for his esthetic physique, and considered Arnold Schwarzenegger his inspiration.

After the news of his death broke, fans and friends took to social media to pay tribute to him.

"RIP Cedric McMillan. We only had one opportunity to work together but I’ll never forget the laughs and stories. An incredible athlete/bodybuilder all while serving his country and being a stand up guy," Canadian wrestler Kenny Omega wrote on Twitter.