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Francisco ‘Paco’ Bautista Bodybuilder Then And Now

By Cornell Scott / March 12, 2024

Francisco ‘Paco’ Bautista Bodybuilder Then

Francisco ‘Paco’ Bautista was born in El Salvador on August 17, 1973. He began bodybuilding at the age of 16 and quickly rose through the ranks, winning his first competition at the age of 18.

Bautista went on to win numerous bodybuilding titles, including the Mr. Universe title in 1998 and 2000. He also competed in the Mr. Olympia competition, placing in the top 10 several times.

Bautista’s bodybuilding career was cut short in 2006 when he was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. He underwent surgery and chemotherapy, but the cancer returned in 2008. Bautista died on September 11, 2009, at the age of 36.

Competitive History

Francisco ‘Paco’ Bautista competed in the following bodybuilding competitions:

1995 NPC USA Championships – 1st place, Light Heavyweight
1996 NPC USA Championships – 1st place, Light Heavyweight
1997 NPC USA Championships – 1st place, Heavyweight
1998 NPC USA Championships – 1st place, Heavyweight
1998 IFBB Mr. Universe – 1st place, Heavyweight
1999 IFBB Mr. Olympia – 7th place
2000 IFBB Mr. Universe – 1st place, Heavyweight
2001 IFBB Mr. Olympia – 8th place
2002 IFBB Mr. Olympia – 9th place
2003 IFBB Mr. Olympia – 10th place
2004 IFBB Mr. Olympia – 11th place
2005 IFBB Mr. Olympia – 12th place

Personal Life

Francisco ‘Paco’ Bautista was married to his wife, Maria, for 14 years. They had two children together, a son and a daughter.

Bautista was a devout Catholic and was a member of the Knights of Columbus. He was also a strong supporter of the Special Olympics.

Francisco ‘Paco’ Bautista Bodybuilder Now

Francisco ‘Paco’ Bautista may be gone, but his legacy lives on. He is remembered as one of the greatest bodybuilders of all time, and his story continues to inspire people around the world.

Bautista’s widow, Maria, has established the Francisco ‘Paco’ Bautista Foundation in his memory. The foundation provides financial assistance to young bodybuilders and supports programs that promote health and fitness.

Bautista’s son, Paco Jr., is following in his father’s footsteps and is now a successful bodybuilder. He has won numerous competitions and is considered one of the top young bodybuilders in the world.