Antonio Hernandez Torres, a celebrated bodybuilding champion and former Mr. Universe, has died at the age of 57 in Tenerife. His passing was confirmed by a local neighborhood association on the Spanish island.
Torres, widely known by his nickname "Jocha," was a six-time Spanish Champion and the Overall Champion of the Netherlands. He also held the Mr. Universe title from 2004 and was a Spanish Boxing Champion. With over 40 years dedicated to sports and the operation of his well-known gym in La Verdellada, he was recognized as the most internationally decorated sportsman in the history of the La Verdellada-Barrio Nuevo area. The neighborhood association conveyed their deepest sympathies to his family and friends.
The cause of Torres's death was not immediately disclosed. He was reportedly set to turn 58 next month. His funeral was scheduled to take place on the day the news was confirmed.
Former competitor and police officer Alejandro Mena recalled Torres as a "wonderful person, an excellent friend and a role model." Mena, who competed alongside Torres at the 1989 Spanish Championships, where Torres was crowned overall champion and Mena finished as runner-up, remembered his "humility, camaraderie and passion for this sport."
The Spanish Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation shared in the grief, posting, "We share the grief of Jocha's family and friends. Rest in peace friend."
Jose Maria Garcia described Torres as "a legend of our sport," noting his prominence in the 1980s as one of the first Spaniards to compete at a world-class level internationally. Condolences were extended to his family during this difficult time.