Who was Otis Perkins aka Black Tom Cruise? Tributes pour in after the powerlifter dies due to a tragic car accident

(Image via Instagram/ black_tom_cruise)
(Image via Instagram/ black_tom_cruise)

Powerlifter Otis Perkins, better known as Black Tom Cruise, died in a car accident that resulted in his vehicle flipping while he was inside. It is unofficial if his death is a result of the accident at this time. He was 39.

Perkins was famous for his deadlifts on Instagram. He gained over 110 thousand followers on Instagram, sharing reels of his training while promoting a healthy lifestyle for others.

Black Tom Cruise also had a YouTube channel and a business under the same name.

News of Black Tom Cruise's passing was shared by training partner Larry "Wheels" Williams on Instagram. In a heartfelt post depicting the two men standing together, Wheels shared the news of Perkins's passing on July 24th.

"I love him and hold him closer to almost anyone I know. It hurts to accept he's gone. No matter what life threw at him he kept a smile and his head held high. Otis Perkins you will be missed."

Wheels did not state when Perkins officially passed away.


How did Black Tom Cruise die?

While there have been no official reports of death, his convertible was involved in an accident which resulted in him suffering injuries to his back and right eye that required surgery.

People close to him believed he would survive, but that his powerlifting career would be in question. A GoFundMe page was created to help Perkins, but following the surgery, he sustained a high fever and lung complications from pneumonia.

Fiancee Lynn Wilson stated that Perkin's lungs could not get enough oxygen and his heart gave out.

Many fans of the powerlifter began commenting on his latest post on July 8th on Instagram, sending their well wishes and condolences to Perkin's family and close friends.

One user commented:

"My God...heartbroken. Rest In Peace my brother."

Another user from Larry Wheel's post attributed to Black Tom Cruise commented:

"He was an extraorindarily uplifiting man, those around him often always found themselves getting better alongside him. Rest peacefully, sir."

At the time of the article, no details have been released regarding a memorial service for Perkins. Lynn Wilson stated that she will be sharing details regarding that information soon. Perkins' family has requested privacy.

To help his family during this difficult time, a GoFundMe has been set up.


Also read: Who was Mike Mitchell? All about the “Gladiator” star as he passes away at 65


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