On April 6, 2026, Rob Orlando’s valiant battle with cancer came to an end. The recent outpouring of love and messages of support around the world showed just how truly special and unique Rob was to everyone he encountered. He will be greatly missed for so many things by the many who loved him. For all the messages or calls or support to his people whether it was a check in on their overall physical and mental health or how they were doing after a loss of a loved one were things he did on a daily basis behind the scenes. For all the times he made you made you feel like you could accomplish anything by giving you that little push or piece of advice. For all the things that annoyed him so much like the weather, Jeep Wranglers with rubber duckies and people who spoke on their speakerphone in public places - the things that made everyone laugh and love him so much. He was by far the best and most devoted husband and father to his wonderful family.
In the Fall of 2025, the deadlift challenge was set up and the details are below. Feel free to continue to do that or just lift or squat something heavy in Rob’s honor.
CrossFit OG legends Dan Bailey, Rich Froning, Jason Khalipa, Annie Thorisdottir, Matt Chan, Josh Everett, Mikko Salo, Chris Spealler, Kristen Clever, Annie Sakamoto, Adrian Bozman, Sam Briggs, Tanya Wagner, and Becca Voigt Miller challenge you to the Rob Orlando Deadlift Cold Bar Challenge to help Rob and his family with his battle against head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.
Rob has always been the ultimate competitor and warrior. The consummate family man, friend, mentor, coach and strongman extraordinaire has been battling a difficult cancer diagnosis since January 2025 enduring a comprehensive surgery, numerous chemotherapy treatments and extensive radiation. Despite all of this, he continues to fight and show everyone just how tough and strong he really is.
It is with that in mind, along with Rob’s Hybrid community in Monroe, Connecticut, fans across the world and with help from his OG CrossFit Legend friends the ‘Rob Orlando Deadlift Cold Bar Challenge’ is born to assist Rob and family.
How it works:
Each gym or individual interested in participating will set up a barbell with weights (one for men, one for women, if applicable). When you arrive at the gym, put your bag down and lift the bar. Add weight and do this everyday until you cannot successfully lift the bar anymore. When you have successfully lifted your max, donate a certain amount per pound or KG lifted into the Go Fund Me. There is no timeline for the execution of this, but every time you perform the Rob Orlando Cold Bar Deadlift, think of Rob and join him in his fight. Once you donate, note your deadlift with your donation. No amount is too small!