Shock after popular influencer dies moments before getting massive back tattoo

Ricardo Godoi, 45, went into cardiac arrest at Dia Revitalite Hospital in Santa Catarina's Itapema town during the tattoo session - with doctors unable to revive him.

The owner of the tattoo studio which was going to ink Ricardo said: "What happened was that, at the beginning of the sedation and intubation, he went into cardiac arrest. That occurred before they even started tattooing him."

"He was quickly checked and a cardiologist was called in to try to revive him, unfortunately without success."

The full statement went on: "Ricardo was going to have a full back tattoo done with us under general anaesthetic, sedation and intubation.

"To do this, we hired a private hospital with all the staff, equipment and anaesthetic drugs necessary for the safety of the procedure.

"We also hired a doctor with a specialism in anaesthesiology and experience in intubation, whose documentation was approved by the hospital."

"Blood tests were requested beforehand, which showed no explicit risk in carrying out the procedure. Ricardo signed the consent form regarding the risk of the procedure."

A message posted on Ricardo’s Instagram yesterday said: "It is with great regret that we inform you about the death of Ricardo Godoi yesterday at midday."

"At this painful moment, we show solidarity with his friends and family, wishing them strength and comfort to overcome this unbearable loss.

"Let Ricardo’s memory be remembered with affection and respect by those who had the privilege of knowing him."

Another touching tribute read: "Today we say goodbye to Ricardo Godoi, an incredible person who left his mark on the hearts of everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

"His joy, generosity and light will remain present in our memories and in every story he helped to build. May he rest in peace."

The influencer had built up a successful business selling luxury sports cars including Ferraris and Lamborghinis.

He also acted as CEO of his own business, Godoi Premium Group.

Before the deadly operation, Godoi had updated his fans on his status while also keeping them posted on what time he would be back to interact with them.

"I’m about to undergo a surgical procedure and will only be back here after 4 pm,” he had posted to his over 200,000 followers.

By the time of his death, Ricardo was married to Rafaela Gastaldi. The couple had a son, as seen in one of his Instagram posts from June 20, 2023, where the influencer wished his toddler a happy birthday.