Remembered as one of the greatest bodybuilders of all time, the Lebanese Lion was a decorated athlete. His immense fame in the bodybuilding community was attributed to five NABBA Universe titles. But tragically, his professional journey was cut short when he passed away due to a heart attack in China in 2006.

The Lion is none other than Edward Kawak, whose incredible physique is still appreciated by fans. His journey to earn a pro card was astonishing; before joining the IFBB in 1986, he already had several pro titles in other competitions to his name. The internet is now taking a trip down memory lane to when he took part in Mr. Olympia and placed 8th in that contest in 1988.

Edward Kawak’s throwback video gathering attention

Despite not winning the coveted title, Edward Kawak’s physique still has a positive impact on fans even years after his passing. The legend’s untimely demise left the sports community in shock. A few days ago, The Golden Days, a page dedicated to the Golden Era of bodybuilding, shared a post to their official Instagram account. The page shared a reel video highlighting Kawak’s astonishing conditioning and muscle definition.

The caption claimed that the talented bodybuilder’s posing video was captured when he was only “22 years old.” This video is after his appearance in Venice, Italy, during the WABBA European championships in 1982. Kawak was hailed as “a true champion & we missed him, he’s definitely the most decorated champion that came out of Lebanon along with “The Lion of Lebanon” ofc.”

READ MORE: “Don’t Insult the King Like That”: Bodybuilding Fans Fume Over as 90s Bodybuilding Legends Compare ‘Neckzilla’ and 8X Mr. Olympia Ronnie Coleman

Bodybuilding community was stunned to see the body of the sport’s pioneer

Amazed at what Edward Kawak used to look like, fans poured into the comment section. One wrote, “Unbelievable for the 80s He’d stand out in today’s world!.” One fan’s admiration for him was beyond any comparison as he said, “My man was a walking representation of a Greek God.” Another complimented his shape and body structure by saying, “Amazingly beautiful the art of bodybuilding.”

One explained the definition of his sculpted physique, “Definitely worthy of admiration for his physique. Incredible symmetry and size for that period.” One fan added, “How to the 70s and 80s achieve that structure.”

Regardless of his tragic demise, Edward Kawak’s legacy will remain the same in his fans’ hearts.

WATCH THIS STORY: Real-Life Bruce Wayne States Astonishing Fitness Advantages Of Skipping Breakfast