Sounds as if you made need like a $1000.00 to get a card,,,inflation
The only chance I would have to become an IFBB pro is to compete at the Team Universe as you would only have to do an NPC event to qualify. At least I would be able to get my foot in the door before it was slammed shut on it although I've made a number of improvements offseason. But there's only so far a natural bodybuilder can go
As far as the amount needed, you better think the minimum $5,000 dollars at least with the amount of drugs, travel expenses, hotel accomodations, etc. My last show I did was the least amount I ever spent. I spent about $800 dollars total.
Doesn't mean not to compete but at the same time you have to know what you're capable of. Look at Layne Norton...infinitely smarter than most diet gurus out there and can literally come in peeled to the bone. However because of genetics, he's never won an WNBF pro card or an NGA/OCB professional title. But he's making a ton of cash and he's well adapted for powerlifting.
I'm actually considered doing some MMA because of my long reach. Maybe I'll get to fight Guy Grundy or Derek and beat some sense into those two....
