The cause of death for Aziz Shavershian, the Australian bodybuilder and internet personality known globally as 'Zyzz,' has been revealed more than a decade after his untimely passing. Shavershian died at the age of 22 in August 2011 while on a trip to Thailand.
A new documentary, "Revealed – Poster Boy: Becoming Zyzz," has provided further details, confirming that Shavershian died from acute respiratory failure caused by a combination of cocaine, morphine, and benzodiazepines. Filmmaker Selina Miles stated that while Shavershian did have an enlarged heart, the exact cause of this condition remains unknown, though anabolic steroid use can lead to such changes. The fatal event occurred at a wellness spa, not a sauna as previously reported.
Shavershian gained a significant online following in the 2000s, becoming a cult figure for his bodybuilding lifestyle and distinctive online persona. He shared videos of his workouts and showcased his physique, amassing tens of thousands of followers on platforms like Facebook. He also developed a clothing line, a protein supplement brand, and authored a book.
Early Life and Rise to Fame
Born in Russia to Kurdish-Armenian parents who later immigrated to Australia, Shavershian and his brother Said (who adopted the persona 'Chestbrah') were the subjects of online attention. Shavershian, who described himself as 'ridiculously thin' in high school, turned to bodybuilding to transform his physique. He attributed his sculpted appearance to intense gym sessions and a strict diet, though he sometimes used slang related to performance-enhancing drugs. His brother Said recalled walking in on Aziz using a needle, indicating steroid use.
Speculation and Circumstances of Death
At the time of his death, initial reports suggested Shavershian had suffered a heart attack in a sauna, potentially exacerbated by a previously undiagnosed congenital heart defect. The mystery surrounding his death fueled widespread speculation about his alleged steroid use, with many viewing his case as a cautionary tale. However, Shavershian had publicly denied using steroids during his life.
Adding to the confusion, Shavershian's personal belongings, including his laptop, wallet, and identification, were reportedly stolen from his hotel room after his death, which caused delays in identifying his body and repatriating his remains to Sydney.
Legacy and the Bodybuilding Community
Even years after his death, Shavershian continues to be remembered by fans who were inspired by his dedication to fitness and his 'aesthetics' message. The documentary's release coincides with a resurgence of interest in 'looksmaxxing,' a term describing extreme methods for achieving peak male aesthetics. The bodybuilding community, in general, faces scrutiny for practices that can strain the cardiovascular system, including intense training, rapid weight loss, dehydration, and the use of performance-enhancing substances, according to experts.