John Lees (bodybuilder)
John Lees was an English bodybuilder and later a professional wrestler who won Mr. Universe in 1957. Lees was born in Stalybridge in 1930. In retirement, Lees operated a gym called John Lees Fitness Centre in Stalybridge, until it was destroyed by a fire in 2005.
He has taken part in the following bodybuilding competitions:
- 1949: Mr Britain - HSL, 3rd
- 1950: Mr Britain - HSL, 3rd
- 1950: Mr Universe - NABBA, Medium-Tall, 1st
- 1952: Mr Universe - NABBA, Tall, 2nd
- 1953: Mr Britain - HSL, Winner
- 1953: Mr Europe - 4th
- 1953: Mr Universe - NABBA, Tall, 2nd
- 1954: Mr Universe - NABBA, Tall, 2nd
- 1955: Mr Universe - NABBA, Tall, 3rd
- 1956: Mr Universe - NABBA, Tall, 2nd
- 1957: Mr Universe - NABBA, Tall, 1st
- 1957: Mr Universe - NABBA, Overall Winner
