Irish strongman Pa O'Dwyer died suddenly at the age of 40

The world of strength sports has lost one of its most prominent faces. Patrick "Pa" O'Dwyer, five-time holder of the title of Ireland's Strongest Man, died suddenly at the age of 40.

The Irish strongman, nicknamed 'The Lion of Limerick', breathed his last on January 3, 2026. He made history not only with a record number of domestic titles, but also by winning the 2018 UK's Strongest Man and regularly competing in the prestigious World's Strongest Man competition.

The Giants Live organisation, which confirmed the sad news, singled out his character in particular: "Pa was a fantastic strongman, but an even better person." O 'Dwyer was popular among fans for his humour and fighting spirit. He leaves behind a partner and three children.