The professional bodybuilding world is in mourning for the death of Dwayne Quamina, known as 'King Q', who passed away on Sunday, August 16, at the age of 40. The news was confirmed by his wife, Leah Jerez. The cause of death has not been made public at this time.
Quamina's death occurred just a week after his last competition. On August 9, he participated in the Lenda Murray Atlanta Pro in Georgia, in the 212 category for bodybuilders up to 212 pounds (96.2 kilograms), finishing in sixth place.
His passing has caused a stir due to the recent nature of his return to competitions. Quamina had stepped away from competition in 2020 but returned to the professional circuit in 2025. In his comeback, he achieved a third place in the Chicago Pro and continued competing throughout the 2026 season.
Born in Trinidad and Tobago and residing in California, Quamina began his bodybuilding career after serving in the United States Navy for over ten years. In 2016, he won the lightweight title at the NPC USA Championships, a result that opened the doors to the professional circuit. The following year, he was crowned champion at the Europa Phoenix Pro.
His greatest achievement came in 2018 when he competed in the Mr. Olympia in Las Vegas, the most prestigious bodybuilding competition in the world. Quamina finished tenth in the 212 category, placing him among the world's top specialists.
After more than five years out of the spotlight, his return had sparked interest among fans. In addition to competing, Quamina worked as an online coach and had built a significant following on social media, where he shared workouts and motivational messages.
A message that has gained special relevance
In recent weeks, Quamina had posted several messages on social media encouraging self-improvement. One of them, written shortly before his death, urged his followers not to take life for granted and to live without regrets. Following his passing, the message took on a particularly poignant meaning for his followers.
The bodybuilding community has reacted with numerous messages of condolence. Among those expressing sorrow is Lenda Murray, an eight-time Ms. Olympia champion, whose name was precisely carried by the Atlanta competition in which Quamina participated shortly before his death.
Quamina leaves behind his wife and two children. The specific circumstances of his death and the cause of his passing have not been publicly disclosed so far. Therefore, any speculation about a possible connection between his death and bodybuilding, competition preparation, or the use of certain substances currently lacks veracity.