Good Vito Undergoes Surgery to Improve Breathing After 10-Year Nasal Spray Dependency
Bodybuilder Vitaliy Ugolnikov, better known to fans as “Good Vito,” has revealed that he recently underwent surgery in hopes of improving his breathing and ending a decade-long dependency on nasal sprays.
The Russian bodybuilding star shared the update with fans on Instagram, explaining that years of relying on decongestant sprays had reached a breaking point and that surgery was the only long-term solution.
The procedure marks another health hurdle for the rising Men’s Open competitor, who has battled multiple injuries and surgeries throughout his bodybuilding career.
Good Vito Reveals Years of Nasal Spray Use Led to Surgery
In his Instagram post, Good Vito explained that he had become dependent on nasal sprays over the last 10 years and hopes the surgery will finally allow him to breathe normally again. [Translation]
“I used around 900 nasal sprays over the last 10 years, approximately 15 liters of oxymetazoline and other vasoconstrictor sprays.
The dependence on these sprays followed me for 10 years.
The time has come to have surgery to get rid of this once and for all.
I really hope this helps me breathe better and feel better.
Thank you, doctors.”
While Good Vito did not disclose the exact medical details of the procedure, his comments suggest it was related to chronic nasal obstruction and long-term use of decongestant sprays. Prolonged use of medications such as oxymetazoline can sometimes lead to rebound congestion, creating a cycle where users become increasingly reliant on the sprays to breathe comfortably.
For a bodybuilder carrying more than 275 pounds of muscle during the offseason, improved breathing could have benefits both inside and outside the gym.
Another Surgery in a Career Filled With Setbacks
This is not the first time Good Vito has been forced to deal with medical issues during his bodybuilding journey.
In early 2024, Ugolnikov underwent successful umbilical hernia surgery ahead of the competitive season. The procedure temporarily interrupted his training but allowed him to address a condition that can be common among strength athletes exposed to years of heavy lifting and abdominal pressure.
Before that, he also dealt with a serious knee injury after a guest posing appearance in Brazil. During the event, Good Vito jumped off the stage while interacting with fans and later revealed he may have torn a ligament in his knee. The injury occurred just weeks before he was expected to compete at the Europa Pro.
Despite the setback, Ugolnikov eventually returned to training and competition, continuing to build momentum as one of the most talked-about physiques in the Men’s Open division.
Who Is Good Vito?
| Full Name: Vitaly Ugolnikov (Men’s Open Bodybuilder) | ||
| Weight | Height | Date Of Birth |
| 255-265 lbs | 5’11″ | 5/11/1997 |
| Division | Era | Nationality |
| Men’s Open | 2020s | Russian |
Vitaliy Ugolnikov first gained attention in bodybuilding circles due to his massive size, freaky muscle bellies, and classic “mass monster” look. Originally from Russia, he began his bodybuilding journey while attending naval school in Saint Petersburg.
After winning the 2021 Saint Petersburg Bodybuilding Championship in the Open division, Ugolnikov transitioned into the NPC and IFBB ranks, where he quickly became one of the sport’s most intriguing prospects. He cracked the top ten at last year’s Mr. Olympia.
Known for pushing his bodyweight well above 275 pounds during the offseason, Good Vito has earned a loyal fanbase thanks to his combination of extreme size, entertaining personality, and willingness to openly discuss both the highs and lows of his bodybuilding career.
Now, after overcoming knee issues, hernia surgery, and another operation aimed at improving his breathing, fans will be hoping this latest procedure helps him return healthier and stronger for the next chapter of his competitive career.
Featured image via Instagram @goodvito
