Jerry Ward, a well-known bodybuilder, fitness Youtuber, and NPC/IFBB Pro Judge, died unexpectedly on Friday at the age of 46.
According to reports, Ward died in his sleep after complaining of rib pain. There is currently no information available regarding the cause of death.
His death is one of many heartbreaking incidents to happen in the sports world recently.
Ward’s death was announced on Saturday by his bodybuilding promoter Gary Udit on Instagram.
“Sadly we lost a terrific friend today with the passing of Jerry Ward,” Udit wrote on his Instagram. “Jerry died suddenly last night.”
“He was here in Pittsburgh commentating on the Live Stream of the NPC Teen, Collegiate, and Masters Nationals.
“In the NPC and IFBB PRO LEAGUE over the years, Jerry was an excellent competitor, judge, expediter, head judge, and PPV commentator.
“His knowledge of the sport of Bodybuilding was unparalleled! Jerry was liked and loved by everyone he came in contact with! We are devastated at his passing,” Udit concluded.
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According to Rx Muscle’s Dave Palumbo, Ward was complaining to a friend that he thought he pulled a left rib. Palumbo said the suspected injury was caused after carrying luggage to where he was staying for the week while fulfilling his recent livestream duties.
Dave Palumbo added that Ward used a massage chair but thought the rib issue felt worse after. His friend Rich told him to get checked out by a physician, though Ward decided to sleep it off instead. After Rich texted Jerry reminding him to show up for the livestream duties on Saturday, promoter Gary Udit informed Rich that Ward had passed away.
In addition to leading a successful career as a bodybuilder, Ward received notoriety online, courtesy of his growing YouTube channel of 155,000 subscribers. As one of the more outspoken commentators in the sport, Ward always provided in depth analysis and detailed observations. Revered for his ambition and work ethic, Jerry owned a successful supplement brand and personal training program called Bios3 Training.
Jerry Ward’s love for bodybuilding and fitness was unrivaled and it showed anytime he spoke on the matter. He began his professional career in 1994, when he earned his personal training certification. In 2001, the bodybuilder switched gears and kickstarted a new line of work as a fitness model. After finding success, he decided to try his hand in the entertainment industry, participating in a number of acting gigs like commercials and some Television programs.
Following Ward’s passing, numerous tributes have been offered.
We mourn the sudden passing of Jerry Ward. Jerry was truly one of the most passionate people in all of bodybuilding. His energy and enthusiasm for the sport was unmatched.
We will miss his strong and straightforward opinions on all things bodybuilding.
RIP, Jerry Ward. pic.twitter.com/abgpYfIbqG
— RXMuscle.com (@RXMuscledotcom) July 23, 2022
My entire life will be dedicated to carrying on the memory of Jerry Ward, a man who loved me for no reason other than he was a good man and he believed in me. RIP Jerry.
— Marc Lobliner – IFBB Pro (@MarcLobliner) July 24, 2022
Bodybuilder and NPC/IFBB Pro Judge Jerry Ward has suddenly passed away at 46 years old. Generation Iron sends condolences to friends and family during this difficult time. Full story here: https://t.co/IXjipgxYBQ#JerryWard #RIP #bodybuilding #GenerationIron pic.twitter.com/4pgeMOl3sZ
— GENERATION IRON (@GenerationIron) July 23, 2022
I am heartened to learn of the passing of Bodybuilding personalty and youtuber #JerryWard. He was only 46, died while sleeping. May he rest in peace, I have learned alot from him!#sadnews #bodybuilding #ifbbpro pic.twitter.com/MDxUMq8TeT
— Eihab Al-Nakib (@EihabNakib) July 23, 2022
Ward was a staunch critic of the COVID-19 mandates.
He shared an article from The Gateway Pundit last week saying, “very simple. DO NOT COMPLY! All mandates are ILLEGAL! Period. If you want to wear a mask or stay home that is totally cool. But NOBODY can be forced to wear a mask or shut down their business. BY LAW.
RIP
