What is the NABBA Universe Championships?
The NABBA Universe Championships is conducted under the auspices of NABBA UK and its chairman Jim Charles. A separate competition called IFBB Mr. Universe was organized by the IFBB however his changed its name to the World Amateur Bodybuilding Championships in 1976.
What happened to the NABBA Professional Division in 2014?
Following his victory, the NABBA International Council determined that in 2014 the NABBA Professional Division would be reestablished with the inaugural professional contest being the 2014 NABBA World Championships in Belfast, Northern Ireland. In 2014, Dave Titterton won the Professional Mr Universe title in Southport, England.
What are the women’s bodybuilding classes at Universe Championships?
Women’s bodybuilding classes were included from 1968 as Ms Physique and then divided in 1986 into Ms Physique and Ms Figure. The Ms Physique class has since been discontinued at the Universe Championships however a Ms Toned and Ms. Athletic Figure is now offered. In 1985, a Junior Mr Universe class was included for men under 21 years.
Who are some famous people who have won the Universe Championships?
Notable previous winners include bodybuilder, actor, and former governor of California Arnold Schwarzenegger, and bodybuilder and actor Steve Reeves (1926–2000). The Universe Championships includes the following classes:
Was there a Mr Universe contest in 1949?
While there was no contest held in 1949, behind the scenes, members of the Strength and Health League were arranging the formation of the National Amateur Body-Builders’ Association or NABBA. NABBA announced that it would be hosting the Mr Universe contest again in 1950.
Is Steve Reeves the original Mr Universe?
Steve Reeves returned to England to be crowned champion that year. Despite being the first NABBA Mr Universe, Steve Reeves was not chosen as the silhouette for the NABBA logo. That distinction would go to John Grimek and his likeness is still used to this day as the emblem of the association.