Atlético versus América was known as the Clássico das Multidões ("Derby of the Masses") before the construction of the Mineirão, as they were the most popular clubs in the state.[144] In their first years, América was known as an elitist club, while Atlético had popular appeal;[2] the former dominated the early years of the encounter, winning ten consecutive Campeonato Mineiro titles from 1916 to 1925. In the 1930s, Atlético pioneered professionalization of football in Minas Gerais, whereas América resisted against it. From that time on, Galo became the major force between the two, with América suffering a setback as a result of its internal disagreements regarding professionalism.[145]