Mr Universe champion Shaun Davis dies aged 57: Tributes to bodybuilder nicknamed 'Dinosaur' who won 1996 contest before being forced to retire due to kidney problems

Former Mr Universe bodybuilder Shaun Davis, nicknamed 'Dinosaur', has died aged 57.

Mr Davis, who won a string of bodybuilding titles including Mr Britain and Mr Europe, was previously forced to end his career early due to health struggles.

He was crowned Mr Universe in 1996, before struggling with kidney problems that left him needed a kidney transplant. He received the surgery in 2006, having waited three years. 

His cause of death is not yet known. Mr Davis leaves behind his partner Helen Burrows and their daughter Harley. 

At the time of his Mr Universe success, he weighed an impressive 334lbs. 

Tributes are pouring in for the bodybuilding star, with Stapleford councillor Richard McRae thanking Mr Davis for putting Long Eaton, Derbyshire, on the map.

Mr McRae wrote: 'IP Shaun Davis, a very well-known and respected gentleman who most definitely put Long Eaton on the map. Shaun was Mr Universe in 1996. He was also Mr. UK, Mr. Britain, Mr. Europe and Mr. Pro Universe.'

Fellow bodybuilder Edward Abbew added: 'I woke up this morning to the sad news that Shaun Davis, my fellow iron warrior has passed away.

'Shaun beat me to win the British Overall Champion title in 1996. I came third. Shaun came first. In fact, we were both prepped by the same coach Patrick Nichols. I saw Shaun’s condition in 1996 when he beat me.

'I asked him who his coach was and he put me in touch with Patrick, who prepped me to win the 1997 overall title. That was the time when only one pro card was given in the UK.

'On winning our pro cards, Shaun and I competed in many countries. We were also at one time sponsored by the same company. That meant we shared hotel rooms in New York, Toronto, Budapest and Essen.

'Shaun and I always had a laugh. If you knew Shaun, you’d know what a big personality he was and how funny he could be. Rest in peace Shaun. You will be missed.'

A second bodybuilder, Troy Brown, wrote: 'Woke up this morning to sad news of fellow Brit Shaun Davis passed away.

'He helped me get known when I came over to north America after turning pro and more importantly helped me get a contract with Allmax nutrition. A NABBA legend and one of the UK's best bodybuilders ever.

'Sending prays to his family and friends.'

Another friend wrote: 'Rest in Peace my friend you was a true inspiration right from the day I met you at school, through your amazing bodybuilding years and after. Your smile and laughter will be missed.' 

After his kidney problems, Mr Davis became a fierce advocate of organ donation.