Following his Gold medal performance at the INBA Natural Olympia in November, Michael Waddington continues to set the standard for Australian natural bodybuilding - not only as a champion athlete, but as a leader, coach, and advocate for the sport.
Competing in the United States against the world’s best natural athletes, Michael claimed Gold in Natural PRO Men’s Bodybuilding, proudly representing Australia on the global stage.
Michael bearing the Australian flag and Natural Olympia gold medal.
A Proven Natural Career Built on Consistency
With over 35 years of training experience, Michael has built a career grounded in discipline, longevity, and continual learning. A long-time natural competitor and respected figure within the INBA community, his journey reflects a commitment to doing things the right way - year after year.
“I’ve been training over 35 years and I feel I’ve still learnt new things - and even now, I want to show I can be a force to be reckoned with on stage.”
INBA Natural Olympia Gold - Earned, Not Given
Michael’s Natural Olympia Gold represented more than a podium finish.
“It was personal satisfaction knowing the hard workouts and the time dedicated to cardio and nutrition all paid off.”
Preparation at this level required balance, patience, and sacrifice.
“Managing work, family and training was the most challenging part of preparing for the Olympia.”
That balance is what makes the achievement especially meaningful.
Michael in a front double bicep pose at the INBA Natural Olympia.
Representing Australia Internationally
Stepping onto the U.S. stage carried a deep sense of pride.
“I felt very proud to represent Australian natural bodybuilding and the INBA in Australia.”
Michael’s performance reinforced the strength of Australia’s natural bodybuilding community on the world stage.
Vice President of INBA Australia - Shaping the Future
Beyond competition, Michael plays a vital role as Vice President of INBA Australia, helping guide the sport’s growth nationwide.
“I’d love to see more financial interest injected into the sport from companies and businesses that could benefit from the association - helping natural bodybuilding continue to grow.”
His vision is focused on sustainability, opportunity, and elevating the sport for future athletes.
A Genuine Connection With Buff Studs
Michael has been a supporter of Buff Studs from the beginning and is the owner of Oxley Fitness, the gym where much of our content is filmed. He regularly reps our gear in training and supports the brand for its creativity and wearability within the gym environment.
“Buff Studs has a cool spin on characters on an easy-to-wear T-shirt - and I love the socks too. They’re an easy fit and don’t slip down.”
With Buff Studs becoming an official INBA sponsor in 2026, the relationship reflects mutual respect for the natural bodybuilding community, the athletes within it, and the environments that support them - from the stage to the gym floor.
Michael repping Buff Studs as a pump cover at the Natural Olympia.
Train With a Proven Natural Champion
Michael also offers personal coaching at Oxley Fitness, bringing decades of experience and elite-level insight to athletes serious about their training.
Learning from someone who lives the process is often the difference between progress and plateaus.
