Up Close with Mike Antonio

How did you get started with modeling/fitness? 

I got started while I was on my first deployment to the Middle East. I was always a runner, but I’d never picked up weights before that trip.  One of my mentors was a big guy who kept me on track with regards to fitness and nutrition.  From there, I just kept at it and continued to put on mass and muscle.

As for modeling, I started out with small gigs for photoshoots to promote events, and eventually I gained enough confidence to take my shirt off and that just took me to another level of opportunities. I was involved in several fitness brands and promotions and eventually runway shows.

What are some of your favorite experiences in the industry? 

Seeing my face on a billboard in New York City. I hadn’t even known the photoshoot I did would be used for that, so seeing myself up there was such an overwhelmingly good feeling.

What are you biggest accomplishments and what are you most proud of?

Being able to represent some of the non-profits I was a part of while serving in the military. It was full circle for me to continuing serving in a different way and that’s what I love about what I do.

You are a US Military Veteran — what is the biggest takeaway you have from enlisting? 

After 13 years of service, I would say my biggest takeaway is that you truly don’t know your full potential until you push past barriers you thought you could never break through. There is no such thing is ‘I can’t’ or ‘I’m not strong enough’. You just get stronger, and you make stuff happen.

What are some of the craziest experiences you’ve had in the service?

I was in a C-130 (big aircraft) and the pilot says ‘prepare for descent’ and we just nosedive straight down until he pulls up just before hitting the ground. I thought it was game over for me. lol.

Photo by Kevin Smith • courtesy @mike_antoni01

What is your daily routine to maintain this physique of yours? 

My daily routine varies but I start out with some oatmeal and light stretching then a jog around the neighborhood if the weather isn’t too crazy. Then after work, I hit the gym for some weightlifting and more cardio after. I think the main thing for me is the diet. Eating right is most of the battle.

What do you do when you’re not at the gym? 

When I’m not gyming, I’m trying new hobbies like rollerblading, boxing classes, playing chess, and investing.

What came first: the world of social media or the world of modeling/fitness?  What is it that fans & followers enjoy most about your posts and what is it you enjoy sharing with them?

For me, I think they both happened at the same time. I used to do podcasts for investing so I was into social media but at the same time I’d be hitting the gym and trying to get my chest bigger. I think people hopefully can see that I’m just a genuine guy that happens to be attractive.

Do you consider yourself a romantic type? 

I definitely feel that I am. I love Rom-Coms and being cuddled up on a couch rather than in a club.

Photo by Sean Jones • courtesy @mike_antoni01

You’ll represent Maryland at the upcoming Mister USA pageant.  How did you get involved in this?  What does it mean to you if you were to win the title?

Funny enough, I’d gotten into watching pageants a few years ago and most recently being a part of the Miss World pageant. Right after that, I got an unrelated call about possibly participating in this Mister USA pageant after some preliminary interviews.

For me, winning this title is a game changer. Lately, I’ve refocused my entire life and started over from practically nothing. I moved, started a new job, new friends, new everything. So, for me, winning means that it’s a milestone. Not only can I motivate myself but I hope to inspire many others. No matter what adversities you may face or background you come from, you are worthy.

What’s next for you and where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?

I honestly want to start a non-profit partnership with housing sustainability projects in America and abroad. In addition, I hope to be traveling again all over the most remote places in the world.

Instagram: @mike_antoni01