Former IFBB Pro Craig Licker has passed away at 57 years old. The news was first reported by Ron Harris, though the cause of death has not yet been revealed.
At the peak of his bodybuilding career, Licker shared the stage with some of the sport’s most legendary names. He battled through highly competitive lineups during the 1990s and later returned to compete in the 2010s.
After retiring from the stage, Licker continued to stay close to the fitness industry. He also pursued his passion for cars and built a reputation in sales.
Now, the bodybuilding community reflects on his career and life. Many peers have already spoken about his impact, both as a competitor and as a friend.
Dave Palumbo:
“I met Craig back in 1995 and started coaching him soon after… and ultimately that developed into a lifelong friendship…I will miss our always interesting conversations and his great sense of humor … RIP my friend!”
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Craig Licker – IFBB Pro and Bodybuilding Veteran, Passed away at 57
Craig Licker began an incredible career during the NPC Nationals and USA Championships in 1994. He won the Middleweight title at the event, earning his Pro Card, which was a rare accomplishment at the time.
He went on to make his IFBB debut in 1995 at both the Houston Pro Championships and Niagara Falls Pro Invitational. This was the first of 13 appearances he made on the IFBB stage.
In 2015, Licker returned to competition after a decade away. He placed 12th at the Chicago Pro and 16th at the Tampa Pro. Those shows would mark the final chapter of his career.
Career Timeline
| Year | Contest | Division | Placing |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1994 | NPC Nationals | Middleweight | 🥇 1st (earned Pro Card) |
| 1995 | Houston Pro Championships | IFBB Pro | — |
| 1995 | Niagara Falls Pro Invitational | IFBB Pro | — |
| 1995–2005 | Various IFBB Pro Shows | IFBB Pro | Multiple appearances |
| 2015 | Chicago Pro | IFBB Pro | 12th |
| 2015 | Tampa Pro | IFBB Pro | 16th |
Craig Licker earned his Pro Card during an era when very few were awarded. He dominated the ultra-competitive Middleweight class at the 1994 NPC Nationals, the same year Paul DeMayo won the Overall title.
Although he struggled to place highly in the IFBB Pro ranks, his career gave him the chance to face legends like Ronnie Coleman and Kevin Levrone. Those battles solidified his place in bodybuilding history.
Even outside the stage, Licker was known for his personality, humor, and drive. Friends and coaches described him as loyal, passionate, and full of energy.
Following his retirement, Licker worked as a salesman in New England for Species Nutrition. By 2012 and 2013, he became one of the company’s top performers.
He also pursued his love for cars. He was a BMW enthusiast, constantly upgrading and sharing his knowledge about performance and design.
Through these passions, he built lasting friendships and left an impact far beyond bodybuilding.
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Dave Palumbo, one of his longtime friends, reflected on their bond, saying he would always remember Licker’s sense of humor and their many conversations.
Craig Licker overcame obstacles, carved out a place in bodybuilding, and touched countless lives through his work and passions.
Colosseum Strength sends condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time.
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- Pro Bodybuilder Craig Licker Has Passed Away at 57 Years Old
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Overview
Craig Licker passed away at 57, built a respected career as an IFBB Pro bodybuilder. Next, he earned his Pro Card at the 1994 NPC Nationals, a rare accomplishment at the time. Then, he faced some of the sport’s toughest competitors during the 1990s and 2000s. Later, he returned to competition in 2015, proving his dedication to bodybuilding. Finally, off stage, he pursued fitness, worked in sales, and shared his passion for cars, leaving a lasting impact on friends and the community.
Featured Image – Pro Bodybuilder Craig Licker Has Passed Away at 57 Years Old – Credit: @troublecraig (Instagram)
