Popular bodybuilder Kali Muscle was hospitalized after suffering a “major health scare” on Saturday, January 17, while working out at the gym, TMZ reports. Kali, whose real name is Chuck Kirkendall, passed out at a fitness center in California and was rushed to the hospital.
The bodybuilder’s ex-wife, Dvyne Dirkendall, told the outlet that she “doesn’t know why he fell unconscious or the status of his condition.”
Kali has nearly 4 million subscribers on YouTube, in addition to posting on Instagram and TikTok.
Kali Muscle Previously Had A Heart Attack
Dvyne Dirkendall also told TMZ that Kali Muscle previously suffered a heart attack, which resulted in him getting a stent inserted to restore blood flow.
In an interview with Generation Iron in March 2025, Kali reflected on his health scare in 2021, which was caused by a clogged left artery due to steroid use.
“It was like I woke up from the dead. I was dead asleep. I just popped up. Hold on, what’s going on. It feels like I have heartburn. I told my wife to get me some heartburn medication. The only was I found it felt better is if I sat on the couch on my knees. It relieved the little burning sensation,” he explained. “After about 30 minutes of being in that position, I got cold sweats and I started vomiting like I’ve never seen in my life.”
Fans Show Support For Kali Muscle
“Wishing Kali Muscle a full recovery. Health always comes first—no physique is worth your life,” one person posted.
“Prayers up for Kali Muscle! I hope everything turns out to be all right!,” another person wrote.
“Wishing Kali Muscle a full and speedy recovery, health always comes first, and hopefully he’s surrounded by good care and support right now,” someone commented.
“That extreme bodybuilding grind is inspiring, but the body has limits especially with past heart issues. Health size every single time. Get well soon, king Praying for a speedy recovery for Kali Muscle,” one person said.
“Seeing someone as powerful as Kali Muscle collapse like this really puts things into perspective. We spend so much time chasing the ‘grind‘ and ignoring our bodies’ check-engine lights. He survived a 100% blockage once, but the heart never forgets that strain. I hope this is just a scare and not the end of the road. Health is the only real wealth, everything else is just show. Get well soon, Kali,” another person stated.
