A MAJORCAN bodybuilder has died aged 50 after surviving a gruelling battle against cancer and a life-threatening peritonitis.
Xisco Serra reportedly passed away from natural causes after he had suffered from stomach problems.
Serra’s untimely death came eight years after the athlete was struck with the daunting disease.
He was well-known and loved in the world of bodybuilding both domestically and internationally with his career spanning over three decades.
In his latest social media post, showing him wear a pair of skimpy black trunks, he urged his fans to “Work your Dreams” before adding: “This is a phrase that undoubtedly represents me since I can remember.”
In 2016, Serra’s “world fell on top of him” when he was diagnosed with a skin cancer.
Speaking about his nightmare illness, he said: “After several months of tests, operations and medication that leave me far from the appearance of a bodybuilder, this is the biggest of my battles to win against this disease and although there are hard moments when you think about throwing in the towel, you want to be strong to overcome all the bumps not only physical, but especially mental.
“But as I always like to say, EVERYTHING in life happens for a reason: it was necessary that an illness arose that made me focus on life and my future from a different perspective and, despite my insistence, part of the machinery failed and I had to prioritise my recovery.
“I also had to find a trigger along the way that would make me focus on life and my future from a different perspective.”
Just a year later, the bodybuilder suffered acute peritonitis – an infection brought on by bacteria that results in inflammation of the thin layer of tissue lining the inside of the abdomen.
The dangerous condition could lead to death within days if left untreated, but luckily Serra survived the horror ordeal.
In August 2018, the athlete became a first-time father to his daughter, Maria, which made him feel like “the luckiest human being alive”.
Serra often showed off his physique on his Instagram page where he documented his bodybuilding journey and gave advice to hundreds of athletes.
He was also an owner of a gym called XS Fitness Center in his native Majorcan town of Alcudia.
Only days before his tragic death, Serra posted videos of his punishing workouts to his 27,500 followers.
Serra first fell in love with the sport when he began lifting weights at the age of 16.
He made his bodybuilding debut in 1994 and since then went on to participate in over 90 contests.
The bodybuilder had notable wins under his belt, including Mr World IBFA in Rome in 2011 and Mr universe IBFA in the 40-plus category in 2014.
In the same year, Serra was crowned the Musclebeach Champion in Venice, California.
After overcoming his cancer diagnosis, he continued competing and last year was named a champion at the Hercules Olympia contest in Tenerife.
After learning of the athlete’s death, tributes poured online from his well-wishers.
One fan wrote today: “RIP coach, may the good lord welcome you with open arms.”
Another one said: “I can’t believe it, I really feel for your family and above all your daughter.
“You were and always will be a role model Xisco.
“Many thanks for everything you’ve done and rest in peace.”
Someone else posted an emotional letter to his daughter online, saying: “Dear Maria, in these these difficult times, I want to extend my deepest condolences for the loss of your beloved father, Xisco Serra. I know his departure leaves a huge void in your heart and in the world of world bodybuilding.
“Your dad was a hero in the gym, but most of all, he was an amazing dad to you. I know it can be confusing and painful right now, but I want you to know that his love for you will never fade away.
“Every memory, every hug and every smile you shared will be with you forever.
“When you read this, I want you to know you are surrounded by love and support. Although your dad is no longer physically here, his spirit lives on in you and everyone around you.
“You are strong and brave, just like him, and we will always be here for you, to help and support you in everything you need.”
Last month, a Brazilian bodybuilder and fitness influencer tragically died aged only 29 after being rushed to hospital with Covid.
Jonas Filho, known as Jonas Big, was rushed to Sao Jose Hospital in the Ceara state capital Fortaleza in the early hours of April 15.
The influencer left his 10,400 Instagram followers worried after he published photos of himself on a respirator shortly after his admission.
He posted the photos alongside the caption: “Only God knows the pain and tears of the clown.”
It has since emerged that he was diagnosed with pneumonia shortly after, and then Covid-19.
His death was confirmed late on April 19.
