Bodybuilder dies after breaking his neck trying to entertain fans with backflip

A South African bodybuilder tragically died on Saturday after his attempt at entertaining fans went horribly wrong.

Harrowing footage from the event shows Sifiso Lungelo Thabete enter an arena at a bodybuilding competition and begin riling up spectators.

The 23-year-old can be seen slowly walking into the centre of the gym before breaking into a trot, raising his hands above his head to the tune of applause from onlookers.

Thabete then picks up speed and attempts to perform a backflip at the center of the mat, which was reportedly a signature move of his.

Apparently, the bodybuilder didn't gain the proper momentum to rotate his body enough to complete the flip, causing him to land on his head and break his neck.

WARNING: This tweet contains extremely graphic footage.

After the fatal impact, Thabete can be seen laying motionless on his side before rolling over onto his back. A group of concerned men then rushes onto the mat to fruitlessly try and help him.

South African bodybuilding magazine Muscle Evolution said the community was "shocked and saddened" by Thabete's sudden death.

"Described by many as a young man with a bright future Sifiso's passing is a huge loss to the sport," the publication wrote.