Rob Orlando, the “Strongman of CrossFit” died on April 6, 2026, at the age of 50.
On Jan. 20, 2025, Orlando was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer, affecting his lower jaw and lymph nodes in his neck. Just a day prior, he achieved a personal best powerlifting total, lifting 1,525 lb.
Remembering Rob Orlando
Orlando was the longtime owner of CrossFit Hybrid Athletics, where he led the affiliate for 15 years. Known for his larger-than-life presence as both a strongman and athlete, he built a reputation by taking on some of CrossFit’s toughest workouts and often even increased the prescribed loads.
He shared his enthusiasm with the wider community by developing the CrossFit Strongman specialty course, introducing athletes worldwide to Atlas stones and a wide range of techniques that emphasized varied programming and the idea of continually learning and trying new sports.
He first competed at the CrossFit Games in 2009 in the Individual division, qualifying for three consecutive years. In 2016, he returned to compete in the Masters division. Orlando also created the iconic “Pig,” a large weighted box ranging from 300 to 500 pounds, which has been featured at the CrossFit Games since 2013.
