Devon's Natural Mr Universe champ helps coach qualify for... Mr Universe!

Devon's Natural Mr Universe champion Ed Akay has helped coach Matthew White achieve a major milestone of his own after the Rotherham-based bodybuilding coach qualified for the 2027 IBFA (Independent Bodybuilding and Fitness Association) Mr Universe in Italy. 

The pair have worked together for six years, first teaming up for a charity body transformation challenge that saw Akay regain his former physique to raise money for good causes. 

What began as a single project has grown into one of natural bodybuilding's most successful coach-and-athlete partnerships.
White, founder of MW Strength & Performance, guided Akay to the Natural Mr Universe title, a World Championship silver medal and three British natural bodybuilding championships, earning a reputation as one of Britain's leading natural bodybuilding coaches. 

Inspired by the success of the athletes he had coached, White returned to competitive bodybuilding in 2026 after several years away from the stage. His comeback included victory in the Junior Masters class at the UKUP Natural Championships before an impressive performance at the IBFA GB Barnsley Colliery Classic secured qualification for the 2027 IBFA Mr Universe in Italy.

The achievement marks a unique role reversal. Having reached the top of the sport under White's guidance,  Akay has repaid his coach by becoming his posing coach and agent, using his own championship experience to help prepare White for the stage.

White will continue competing across the UK this season before representing Great Britain in Italy next year, with Akay remaining a key part of the preparations.

Kyle Vice, IBFA GB - Barnsley Colliery Classic says: “Matthew has great potential to go further in this sport and will be a strong competitor in the physique category. It was a pleasure to have him on stage at my show and an even greater pleasure to hand him his invite to compete for the Universe title in Italy.”

Ed Akay, Natural Mr Universe Champion says: “After all our success over the past few years it felt surreal acting as a coach for a guy who gave so much to me. Matthew’s drive is insane and we are definitely doing the skill exchange of a lifetime!”