User:Tblinn/IFBBpro

The Early Years
In 1946, Joe Weider and Ben Weider created the International Federation of BodyBuilders, the IFBB  Later on in 1965, Joe Weider went on to start the first IFBB professional competition – the Mr. Olympia. In 1975, Arnold Schwarzenegger was named chairman of the first Professional Committee. In 1977, the movie “Pumping Iron”, starring Arnold and Lou Ferrigno, was released. In 1978, Bill Pearl became the first Professional Judging Director. The first Night of Champions was held in New York City.

The 1980s
In 1980, Joe Weider created the Ms. Olympia and the Grand Prix series of competitions were organized throughout the USA and eventually, Europe and Australia/New Zealand. Oscar State (O.B.E.), created the first Professional Rules and Code of Ethics. In 1982, IFBB professional bodybuilding was officially managed by a “Professional Liaison Officer”. In 1986, this title was changed to “Director, Professional Committee”. In 1987, IFBB professional bodybuilding was restructured and became the “IFBB Professional Division”, which was headed by an IFBB Vice President. In 1989, Arnold Schwarzenegger and Jim Lorimer teamed up to create the Arnold Classic.

The 1990s
In 1990, John Balik created the Iron Man Pro Invitational. In 1995, Joe Weider created the Fitness Olympia and, in 2003, the Figure Olympia. In 2005, the IFBB Professional Division officially became the “IFBB Professional League”.

Progress
In 1965, Joe and Ben Weider created IFBB professional Bodybuilding (and later, professional Fitness and Figure) as a way for elite amateur athletes to further their competitive career and to earn money. In 1966, Larry Scott received $1,000 for his Mr. Olympia win. In 2006, there were over 40 IFBB professional competitions and the total prize money topped 1.6 million dollars.