Formby’s very own John Youssef crowned Mr Universe in phenomenal international triumph!

What an absolutely incredible moment for Formby! One of our own, well-known local resident John Youssef, has reached the very top of international bodybuilding after being crowned IBFA Mr Universe Champion and officially securing his WPC Professional Bodybuilder status!

Years of relentless dedication, gruelling training, sacrifice, discipline and sheer determination have led to this extraordinary moment as John fulfils a boyhood dream and takes his place among the professional ranks of the sport.

And what a journey it has been.

John’s incredible competitive record now includes the prestigious IBFA Mr Universe title, WPC Professional Bodybuilder status, third place at the World Championships, second place at the British Championships, an astonishing 11 first-place titles, nine second-place finishes, four third-place finishes, an Overall Champion title and a Best Poser Champion award.

Speaking after achieving the dream he has pursued since childhood, John said:

“Winning Mr Universe and earning a professional card has been a boyhood dream of mine. Achieving this goal only raises the bar for what comes next. Every milestone reached makes the next target even greater, and this is just the beginning of what I plan to accomplish on the professional stage.”

But behind every champion is a team of people who have been there through the early mornings, the long training sessions, the sacrifices and the highs and lows. John was quick to pay tribute to those who have stood beside him throughout his remarkable journey.

“This achievement belongs to a whole team of people. I want to specifically thank my coach, Ryan, and my wife, Jen, alongside my family and friends for their unwavering support. I am also incredibly grateful to the event promoters who organise these top-tier competitions, and to everyone locally and on social media who has sent well-wishes and supported me at the shows.”

Now, with the title of Mr Universe to his name and professional bodybuilding status officially secured, John is preparing for an exciting new chapter as he sets his sights on competing at the highest level on the elite international professional circuit.

Just think about that for a moment… Formby has its very own Mr Universe!

From a boyhood dream to the international stage, John Youssef has shown exactly what can be achieved through passion, perseverance and an extraordinary determination to never give up on your dreams.

A truly phenomenal achievement for one of Formby’s own. Huge congratulations, John, Formby is incredibly proud of you!