Mr Universe Shaun Davis aka 'Dinosaur' dies

Renowned bodybuilder Shaun Davis, fondly known as "Dinosaur" and the 1996 Mr Universe, has passed away at the age of 57, leaving friends and the bodybuilding community "absolutely devastated." 

Despite achieving remarkable success in his career, Davis faced kidney problems that led to his retirement, undergoing dialysis three times a week before finally receiving a kidney transplant in 2009 after a three-year wait.

Weighing an impressive 334lbs at the peak of his Mr Universe triumph, Davis, hailing from Long Eaton in Derbyshire, is survived by his partner Helen Burrows and their daughter. 

Tributes poured in for the bodybuilding champion, with local councillor Richard McRae acknowledging Davis's significant contributions, stating, "Shaun was Mr Universe in 1996. He was also Mr UK, Mr Britain, Mr Europe and Mr Pro Universe."

Close friend Kuldeep Bhardwaj expressed deep sorrow over the news, remembering Davis as a true inspiration from their school days through his remarkable bodybuilding career. Reflecting on Davis's impact, Bhardwaj stated, "Your smile and laughter will be missed." 

In a poignant moment, Davis's partner Helen shared a photo of the couple on Facebook, emphasising the void left by his untimely departure.

Shaun Davis, beyond his achievements on the bodybuilding stage, became an advocate for organ donation. In a 2009 interview, he emphasised the critical need for kidneys, urging people to sign up for the transplant donor register. 

Davis shared the emotional journey of receiving a kidney transplant after a period of desperate waiting, highlighting the poignant moment when his daughter wrote a letter to Father Christmas, expressing gratitude for her father's new kidney.

The bodybuilding community and beyond mourn the loss of Shaun Davis, celebrating his legacy as a champion and an advocate for organ donation.