Bodybuilding Legend Undergoes Emergency Surgery for Sudden Health Scare originally appeared on Men’s Fitness.
Bodybuilder Victor Martinez, 51, is on the mend after undergoing an emergency surgery this week, as TMZ reported.
Martinez, a retired IFBB Pro, is best known for winning the 2007 Arnold Classic and placing second at the 2007 Mr. Olympia, finishing just behind Jay Cutler.
His professional bodybuilding career began in 2001 at the IFBB Night of Champions. Over the course of his career, he racked up several pro victories and competed at the Mr. Olympia between 2004 and 2016.
He officially retired from competition at 47 but has remained a prominent figure in the fitness community.
Related: 4x Mr. Olympia Jay Cutler Shares the Workout Split That Keeps Him Ripped in Retirement
Generation Iron broke the news on July 16, reporting that Martinez had undergone an emergency procedure and was currently recovering in the hospital.
“Wishing the Dominican Dominator a speedy and healthy recovery,” Generation Iron wrote on Instagram.
While the specific nature of the medical emergency hasn’t been disclosed, Martinez shared a heartfelt message with fans on social media.
“To have physical and mental health is to be blessed and if we ever lose one or the other, we can only try to regain it. I am currently working on that, so with whatever energy I have to spare is respectfully being saved for my beautiful kids and family,” Martinez shared in a statement. “It hurts, so let’s try to take a nap and recover.”
The bodybuilding world has rallied behind Martinez, with fans and fellow athletes sending well-wishes for a full and speedy recovery.
“May God provide you strength, but most importantly healing throughout this chapter Brother. Get well soon. You’re loved by many,” Phil Heath commented on Martinez’s post.
“Sending prayers and love ❤️,” Angelica Teixeira wrote.
Related: Ronnie Coleman Breaks Silence on Life-Threatening Medical Emergency
Bodybuilding Legend Undergoes Emergency Surgery for Sudden Health Scare first appeared on Men’s Fitness on Jul 18, 2025
This story was originally reported by Men’s Fitness on Jul 18, 2025, where it first appeared.