ANDERSON — While Ed Nunn might intimidate people with his Incredible Hulk-type, bodybuilder muscles, his easy smile is a giveaway to the kind, gentle spirit within.

“I think a lot of people see me and they’re like, ‘Wow, he’s a monster,’ and they get the wrong idea,” Nunn said. “But I’m a laid-back person who can get along with anybody.”

After 18 years of educating himself on training, clocking in at the gym, and fine-tuning his diet, Nunn finally left the amateur ranks.

With a win in November 2008 at the NPC (National Physique Committee) National bodybuilding competition in Atlanta, Ga., Ed Nunn turned pro.

Not only did he win his class, Super Heavy Weight (over 225 pounds), he also came in first place as the overall competition winner, weighing in at a ripped 242 pounds.

“I was so excited when they announced me as the winner that I dropped down on one knee and I started praying right there,” said Nunn. “You could hear the cameras clicking, taking a million pictures.”

One of Nunn’s biggest blessings has been to realize his dream — as a professional, he’s on the cusp of making money doing what he loves.

“I don’t want to do this forever,” said Nunn. “But I’d like to make as much money as I can and use it as a steppingstone toward other things.”

Nationals is the top competition for turning pro and opens the door for professional competitions with increased financial rewards and recognition. Wins can lead to opportunities as a spokesman for products, appearances, and prestige as a personal trainer.

International Federation of Bodybuilders (IFBB) Hall of Fame member Shawn Ray said, “The thing that Ed Nunn has going for him is his foundation, his base, and his years of experience in training. He’s plugging himself right in to becoming one of the top pros, probably in his rookie season.”

Ray won the Nationals, turning pro 22 years before Nunn and went on to place top five at the Super Bowl of bodybuilding, Mr. Olympia, for 12 consecutive years.

“The way Ed performs and conducts his routines very much complements his work in the gym and the overall finished product that he has competitively on the stage,” Ray explained. “Ed is one of the guys that’s going to have a big future.”

The 2008 season, Nunn also won first place as Mr. Indiana NPC Super Heavy Weight and was overall winner. He placed first in the USA Championships Super Heavy Weight.

Nunn recalls that it was after his win at the USA Championships when Ray referred to him as “Ed Second to Nunn” during an interview. The title stuck.

Professional trainer Hany Rambod recognized Nunn’s potential and approached him about working together. Nunn said, “I could only go so far by myself with what I knew. He took things to the next level, changing some food and exercises, making me look sharper going into Nationals.”