The death of an online bodybuilding celebrity has led to the discussion of anabolic steroids by Australian newspapers even in the absence of a causal relationship between the two. Aziz “Zyzz” Shavershian recently died at the age of 22-years old. The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade concluded that Zyzz died from cardiac arrest resulting from an undiagnosed congenital heart defect in Thailand.
While Zyzz may have used steroids, steroids could not have retroactively caused a congenital heart defect. Nonetheless, the media has reported Zyzz’s death as a cautionary tale about the use of steroids.
“Zyzz”, as he is known on Facebook and popular bodybuilding forums, had gained considerably internet fame for his rapid physique transformation and entertaining online persona. Zyzz mastered the use of social networks to attract followers and fans. He popularized physique-oriented jargon where “riding bicycles” referred to going on a steroid cycle, “mirin” meant admiring a physique and “jelly” referred to jealousy of someone’s body.
Zyzz reportedly gained over 60 pounds of muscle during a two-year period. He has denied using anabolic steroids as part of this transformation. However, his discussion of “bicycles” on his Facebook page and posts on Steroid.com that discussed bodybuilding drugs such as trenbolone, testosterone propionate, Arimidex and DNP gave fuel to rumors that the use of anabolic steroids was a key component to Zyzz’s physique. The recent arrest of Zyzz’s brother Said “Chestbrah” Shavershian on charges of steroid possession also raised suspicions of steroid use by Zyzz.
Source:
Budd, H. (August 15, 2011). Customs reveals steroid abuse is skyrocketing. Retrieved from http://www.news.com.au
Whyte, S. (July 31, 2011). All pumped up, but tell us how? Retrieved from http://www.smh.com.au
