Italy-based federation reveals IBFA GB amid UK split

Now there will be TWO IBFA federations in the UK this season

By Gary Chappell

THE ongoing dispute between IBFA UK and its former international parent organisation has entered a new phase following the launch of a separate UK entity – IBFA GB – by the Italy-based International Bodybuilding Fitness Association.

As previously reported by FrontDouble, IBFA UK president Matthew Ali has confirmed that his organisation is no longer affiliated with the international federation and is now operating as the Independent Bodybuilding Fitness Association UK, while continuing to use the acronym “IBFA UK”.

Ali has rejected claims that control of IBFA UK has changed hands and has warned of potential legal action over what he describes as unauthorised use of the UK designation.

Italy-based IBFA launches IBFA GB

In response to the split, the international federation has now launched IBFA GB, effectively establishing a separate British entity operating independently of Ali’s organisation.

The move appears to formalise what had previously been an internal governance dispute into a clear structural separation, with two distinct federations now operating in the UK under similar branding but different titles.

IBFA GB issued a statement on Saturday, January 17, which read:

IBFA GB STATEMENT
“Going forward we think it’s important that everyone involved, whether that be staff, competitors and people attending shows, understand our values.
HONESTY
TRUST
FAIRNESS
EQUALITY
INTEGRITY
All five values are what we think our federation, and every other federation involved in bodybuilding, should work with to bring the best out of the sport that we all love and, most importantly, bring the best out of competitors.
At IBFA GB we welcome all competitors with absolutely zero tolerance to discrimination towards race, religion, gender and ability. We are working tirelessly to create a supportive, encouraging and positive atmosphere, which will hopefully create a community of this country’s best bodybuilders and supporters.
Finally, the health and well-being of our competitors is our main and most important focus, because it’s you that keep the cogs turning in this sport. We are here to look after you and provide you with a stage to showcase your fantastic ability.
Thank you all,

Team IBFA GB”

In a further post on social media, IBFA GB announced their officials as:

President: Kenneth Brown

Secretary: Kyle Vice

Committee members: Gemma Vice, Connor Coulson, Anna Barrass, Johnny Woodhead and Demi Ruberts.

Despite having no show calendar to date, IBFA GB added: "We have some exciting plans in the works so make sure you all stay well tuned. Rest assured we’re working hard behind the scenes to put on the most unforgettable shows for all you amazing athletes to showcase yourselves and your hard work. Bodybuilding at its finest. Announcement soon.

"Again thank you from everyone at IBFA GB and the Filizola family for your continued and growing support."

Ali has previously stated on social media that cease and desist notices had been issued instructing the international federation to stop using the acronym “IBFA UK”.

Ali had also indicated that he was due to meet with solicitors to discuss the matter. It is understood that this meeting was scheduled to take place last week, although no formal update or documentation has since been published.

Central issue: branding and authority

With the launch of IBFA GB, the central issue now appears less about presidency and more about branding, continuity, and authority.

Ali’s position rests on his claim that:

• IBFA UK has been formally registered in the UK as an unincorporated association
• the acronym “IBFA UK” is legally his to use domestically
• his organisation represents the continuation of the UK federation he rebuilt

The international federation, by contrast, appears to have accepted the split and responded by establishing a new UK-facing body under a different designation, rather than continuing to assert control over the IBFA UK name.

This may reduce direct naming conflict, but it does not fully resolve questions around:

• historical use of the IBFA UK identity
• athlete eligibility for international competitions
• and whether past governance arrangements were ever formally documented

What this means for athletes

For UK competitors, the practical consequence is that two separate pathways now exist.

Athletes competing under IBFA UK will do so within an organisation that is no longer affiliated with the Italy-based international federation, but which Ali says is continuing to expand domestically and internationally under its own banner. Indeed, IBFA UK are planning a World Championships in Alicante, Spain in 2027 and this season will host their own Mr & Miss Universe in Cardiff.

Athletes aligning with IBFA GB are likely to retain direct access to international IBFA events. However, Ali has said that the Italy-based organisation has now made the Universe and Worlds open events rather than invite only. This has yet to be confirmed.

FrontDouble advises athletes to seek written clarification regarding federation affiliation and international eligibility before entering competitions.

IBFA GB – an evolving situation

While the creation of IBFA GB clarifies that the international federation is now pursuing a separate UK strategy, significant questions remain unanswered.

FrontDouble has contacted the Italy-based federation seeking clarification on:

• the governance structure of IBFA GB
• its relationship to previous UK officials
• and how it intends to manage athlete eligibility going forward

At the time of publication, no response has been received.

The situation remains fluid, with legal, organisational and reputational implications still unfolding on both sides.

FrontDouble will continue to report developments as verifiable information becomes available.

This story will be updated.

READ THE ORIGINAL IBFA ROW STORY HERE.

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