The global nature of the IFBB, and the opportunities within it for UK athletes, were highlighted at last weekend's Elite Pro World Championships and 72nd amateur Men's World Championships.

Slovakia's Michal Krizanek became the first IFBB Pro World Champion in open bodybuilding to cap a great year that has seen him emerge as a phenomenal talent who combines spectacular mass and shape on a tall frame.

Mika Sihvonen from Finland was the judges' pick in an incredible up to 90 kg line-up. The runner-up in this category was from Russia; third place was from Algeria – these are true world championships, not events dominated by one or two nations.

Roshanzamirtabari Morteza from Iran won the super-heavyweight and overall world title in amateur bodybuilding.

His victory crowned a great weekend for Iran, which topped the medal table ahead of South Korea and China.

Britain's James Price took fourth in the Games Classic over 175 cm class.

Britain’s James Price, pictured here at the UK Nationals in April. Photo by Christopher Bailey

James booked his place at the WADA-tested UK Nationals in April, which will next year again be the selection event for those wishing to compete at the World and European Championships.

“I’m very pleased and felt the result was fair,” said James. “The guys who beat me deserved their places. I've been very impressed and thankful for the experience and opportunities provided by the UKBFF, all the way from the standard of drug testing at the UK Nationals, to Europe and then onto the Worlds.”

More cheques were handed out in the $300,000 amateur rankings, for amateur athletes that accumulated the most points in major international events throughout the year.

It was also announced that the United Arab Emirates will host the 2019 IFBB Men's World Championships.

The action turns to China this weekend, which hosts the £100,000 Women's World Championships.

The competitors, including Britain's Ade Bishop, have had the costs of their accommodation paid for by the Chinese IFBB federation.

WORLD BEATERS