A 55-year-old Brazilian bodybuilder known as the real-life Popeye passed away recently. Arlindo de Souza, with his prominent 29-inch biceps, reportedly succumbed to multiple organ failure. His massive muscles were achieved through the use of synthol, a hazardous mixture of mineral oil and alcohol that enlarges muscles without enhancing strength, leading to severe health risks.
Arlindo’s tragic experience with synthol was highlighted by the death of his friend, Pulinho, who also injected the substance and suffered fatal consequences. Arlindo, reflecting on his friend’s demise, warned against using synthol, emphasizing the dangers associated with it. Despite temptation to resume, he vowed to stay away from such substances.
Other bodybuilders, like Kirill Tereshin, have faced similar repercussions from synthol abuse. Kirill, also known as the Russian Popeye, may require double arm amputation after extensive use of synthol. His mother criticized his transformation, labeling him an “online guinea pig,” and medical experts have warned him about potential amputation due to his risky practices.
Similarly, bodybuilder Gregg Valentino’s story took a dangerous turn when his bicep exploded from synthol injections. After a severe infection, Gregg underwent surgery to drain the synthol and now advocates for a more natural approach to bodybuilding.
Valdir Segato, another Brazilian bodybuilder, tragically died at 55 due to a heart attack linked to synthol use. Despite warnings from doctors, Valdir continued injecting synthol to achieve his desired physique, garnering a large social media following. His untimely death serves as a cautionary tale against the dangers of synthol abuse in the bodybuilding community.