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“R.I.P. POPS!”: Bodybuilding World Emotional as 7x Mr. Olympia Legend Makes a Heart-Wrenching Confession for Late Father

Published 03/31/2024, 8:45 AM EDT

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Modern-day bodybuilding icon Phil Heath remembered his father on his 10th death anniversary. After spending a decade without his father, the bodybuilder wrote an emotional tribute to the man who supported Heath his entire life. The former Mr. Olympia remembered how proud Donald Heath felt when he won his first Sandow trophy.

The bodybuilding veteran thanked his father for his support, even in spirit. Although Donald Heath didn’t witness his son equal Arnold Schwarzenegger‘s Olympia record, he departed the world as a proud father. The Gift’s heartfelt tribute to his father struck a chord with the entire bodybuilding community. Fans and fellow bodybuilding stars showed their love for the champion.

Phil Heath misses his father

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The bodybuilding icon didn’t see his father every day while growing up. However, he always had faith that Donald Heath would show up when he needed him. “Those birthday dinners, baseball games, trips to the movies, and even fishing will forever be something I cherish,” wrote The Gift. However, he has felt his father’s presence and support even during these ten years without him.

 

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“You’ve shown up for me in your afterlife, as my dreams have been filled with love from you,” wrote the bodybuilding champion. The seven-time Mr. Olympia confessed to missing his father dearly. “I cannot lie, this day hurts,” wrote Heath. However, he cherishes his father’s fighting spirit and tries to live life with a similar zeal.

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Phil Heaht’s incredibly honest confession moved the entire bodybuilding community. They couldn’t help but offer their love and support to the seven-time Mr. Olympia.

The bodybuilding community stood in solidarity

“He’s super proud of you brother! Sending lots of love on this day,” commented Hany Rambod. Rambod is the man who helped Heath win seven Sandow trophies, and the two share a close relationship.

Another bodybuilding icon and fellow Mr. Olympia also connected. “R.I.P. POPS!” commented Dexter Jackson.

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“He is proud of his son,” commented a fan. “I remember that day well. My continued condolences to you and your family Phil. Always thinking about you,” wrote another fan.

Bodybuilding icon Chris Bumstead’s fiance, Courtney King, also commented. “Prayers for you R.I.P. to your father,” wrote the mom-to-be.

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The tenth anniversary of his father’s passing hasn’t been easy on Heath. However, writing his tribute and the love he received from the bodybuilding community may have helped The Gift feel a little better.

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Sagnik Bagchi

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Sagnik Bagchi is a senior bodybuilding writer at EssentiallySports. A passionate fitness enthusiast himself, Sagnik uses his knowledge of bodybuilding to focus on the coverage of major events like the Mr. Olympia and Arnold Classic.
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