Bodybuilder Lenny Persin has died at the age of 60

Bodybuilder Lenny Persin, also known as “Big Lenny,” has died at the age of 60.

The legendary contestant reportedly suffered from heart failure before his death over the weekend, The Sun reports.

The news was confirmed in a YouTube video by fellow bodybuilder Dave Palumbo on Sunday.

He said: “The great Lenny Persin is no longer with us. He died in the last few days, we don't know exactly what day.

“He had been suffering from heart failure for some time.

“Big Lenny was an icon in this sport. He carved out a unique niche for himself and led a group of bodybuilders who called themselves the Del Rey Misfits.

“He was their fearless leader.”

His official cause of death is not yet known.

Big Lenny was known for his eccentric appearance, particularly his protruding belly, and his larger-than-life personality.

He did not have the traditional bodybuilding appearance due to a condition called palumboism, which is usually caused by the use of HGH and insulin and results in difficulty contracting the abdominal muscles.

Big Lenny competed in several bodybuilding competitions.

He took second place at the last event, the 2017 NPC Ruby Championship.

His goal was to be the biggest guy on the stage, and he was passionate about the sport, Fitness Volt reports.

Big Lenny was recognized for his extreme personality, unfiltered comments and unconventional approach to bodybuilding.

He often discussed his views on life, philosophy and fitness in unique, often outrageous ways, which has made him a cult figure in online bodybuilding circles.

In another recent YouTube video, industry expert Jon Bravo also confirmed Lenny's death and recalled his personality.

He said: “I had the opportunity to meet him and he was a gentle giant, you know?

“One of the biggest guys, the biggest guy in the room, and you know, one thing we can all learn from Big Lenny: He lived every day to the fullest, and it didn't matter if he lived in a dilapidated state in his apartment full of cockroaches, dirt and mold, he had a smile on his face every day and every day he found a way to make himself happy.”

Bravo expressed its condolences to Big Lenny's family and fans.

He added: “I would like to send my greetings to all his fans, he was very popular in the fitness industry for so many years.

“He is an integral part of the fitness industry and he is also someone we lost too soon.”

Since then, there have been numerous tributes to the late bodybuilder on social media.

One person wrote: “This is heartbreaking because this big gentle giant had no ill will toward anyone he might offend.”