Tragedy as dad dies in freak gym accident while bench-pressing
☠️A Brazilian man lost control of a barbell and died right in the gym
He was using an unsafe grip — without wrapping his thumb around the bar. It slipped, crashed onto his chest, and the impact caused his heart to stop.
👍Gym lovers, watch your thumbs — it might literally save… pic.twitter.com/mSEiq5vdqj
— NEXTA (@nexta_tv) December 4, 2025
A Brazilian man lost control of a barbell and died right in the gym
He was using an unsafe grip — without wrapping his thumb around the bar. It slipped, crashed onto his chest, and the impact caused his heart to stop.
A dad of two tragically died during a gym session when a heavy barbell slipped from his grasp and hit him during a weightlifting session.
The tragic incident took place on Monday, December 1 at RW Academia, Ronald’s regular gym in Olinda, near the city of Recife in Brazil’s. Police launched an investigation into the tragic incident but have already concluded it was an accident.
Ronald Montenegro, 55, was enjoying a workout doing weight training when the horror accident happened. He was able to free himself from the heavy weight but harrowing footage showed him get to his feet, before then collapsing to the ground in agony.
He was rushed to hospital, but despite the best efforts of medics he was not able to be saved. Since his death tributes have been pouring in for the museum boss.