FAMOUS bodybuilder Kali Muscle was hospitalized after suffering a massive heart attack that he thought was heartburn.
The 46-year-old actor shared the news to his thousands of YouTube subscribers on November 7 – a day after former Mr. Olympia champion Shawn Rhoden died.
Kali, of Oakland, California, said he woke up with chest pains on Thursday after taking a nap.
He thought the pain was heartburn before his girlfriend took him to the hospital.
The actor, real name Chuck Kirkendall, said that the artery that supplies blood to the left side of the body was “100 percent clogged”, according to FitnessVolt.
The bodybuilder said he previously suffered from migraines and swelling in his feet.
Kali said: “I’ve always been concerned so I don’t want to say it’s a wake-up call.”
The actor had emergency surgery but said he wasn’t scared.
He has since posted a YouTube video where he is lying in a hospital bed.
Kali said: “Make sure you guys take care of your health. That’s what I’ve been talking to you about anyway. And you know, God is using me as an example.
“Some people don’t get a second chance, man. I got my twins and I gotta live, man.”
Read our Shawn Rhoden live blog for the very latest news and updates…
The influencer has over 2.49million subscribers on YouTube and starred in commercials for brands such as Snickers, Taco Bell, and Honda.
Fans on social media wished the bodybuilder a speedy recovery.
One Twitter user said: “Thinking of you dog, I’ve watched your videos for motivation, the strength is within, we know that. I send my energy to you. Get well Kali Muscle.”
News of the star’s health scare comes as the bodybuilding community mourns the death of Rhoden.
The star, also 46, died on November 6 after suffering a fatal heart attack, according to Generation Iron.
Athletes, commentators, and fans have since paid tribute to the renowned bodybuilder.
One fan wrote on Twitter: “RIP Shawn Rhoden. Very sad news and a travesty that your (sic) never had another chance to win Mr O!”
Another said: “Still can’t believe it. Rest in power Shawn Rhoden.”
Friends and fans left messages of condolence on his final Instagram post that was shared on his account last week.
The post read: “Brick by brick and patience it will take. See you on the other side.”
Friend Rob Bailey wrote: “One of the greatest. We had so many good times together. You will be missed man.”
Bradley Martin added: “Such a kind soul. Rest In Peace.”
In his last Instagram Stories post, the bodybuilder shared a meme.
It read: “Be with someone who will take care of you. Not materialistically, but takes care of ur soul, ur well being, ur heart & everything that’s you.”
Rhoden added the words “Real talk” over the meme in red letters.
He discovered bodybuilding in 1992 and entered the sport at an amateur level.
However, he battled several injuries and after his dad died, he turned to alcoholism.
In 2018, Shawn defeated Phil Heath in the Mr. Olympia contest at the age of 43 – making him the oldest bodybuilder to ever win the title.
He was scheduled to appear as a special guest at the upcoming IFBB Pro Qualifier event due to take place next month.
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