Jason Bond, 54, has been crowned NABBA Universe men over 45s physique champion, earning him a place among the legends of bodybuilding.
The Newport athlete secured the title at the National Amateur Body Building Association (NABBA) Universe event in Gateshead.
The competition is famed for launching the careers of icons like Arnold Schwarzenegger and Frank Zane.
Mr Bond, who lives in Liswerry, said: “After 30 years I have finally done it and I am beyond excited, honestly ecstatic.
“I got back into competing in 2023 when my brother called me skinny so to now stand alongside those names, on the same stage and same merit, is an incredible feeling that I can barely put into words.
“This moment has been over three decades in the making full of lessons, resilience, and relentless drive.”
His journey to victory was built on a gruelling 13-week training plan that included two hours of cardio daily, much of it on the streets of Newport.
Mr Bond said he first took up bodybuilding in 1996 at Step Power Gym in Newport.
He competed in 1998 and 2012, winning both times.
However, after a personal loss in late 2022, he decided to return.
He said: “In December 2022 my mum died, and I lost loads of weight and was also restoring my new house.
“So, I got my head out the shed started training and won Nabba Wales then I decided to do the Universe.
“I did The Nabba universe in October 2023 and came second. I was still not happy, so I thought ‘go again’.”
Mr Bond thanked those who stood by him.
He said: “I want to say a massive thank you to everyone who has supported me through this journey including my family especially my amazing wife Tracy and daughter Chloe.
“None of this would have been possible without their love and support.
“And a massive thanks to the Old School Bodybuilding Prep team especially Tim Rosiekin for getting me the best shape of my life.”
Mr Bond suggests that the next time he competes he may even be aiming for the professional level.
