Talking to Rio Marcantonio – March 2019

In this edition of the WORLD MODEL HUNT magazine, we speak Rio Marcantonio. He talks about his personal self, modeling, and his journey as a whole.

Question 1. How does it feel to appear on a modeling magazine cover?

This is my first cover feature so it is pretty exciting!

Question 2. What do these tattoos signify to you? You appear to be completely involved with art, and you don’t hesitate to practice it on your body?

I have a lot of random tattoos, there’s no specific theme. I would compare it to a scrapbook. I have memorial tattoos, tattoos for when my children were born, some inspirational Quotes, and others are just fun designs.

Question 3. Which one is your favorite from your collection? Do you mind explaining the background to any of them?

That’s a tough one, but I guess I’d say the tattoo on my stomach. It’s a woman with her head inside a lion’s mouth with a Quote that says “Be not Afraid” I got it after having my second child. I had a natural home birth and I feel it’s amazing what a woman’s body can do on its own. I actually almost had to deliver her on my own because she came so quickly. So I definitely had to be strong, calm, and not afraid.

Question 4. Have you ever had a modeling job rejection because of your tattoos?

Back in the day while dealing with an agency when I was younger getting jobs was much more difficult because of having tattoos and being only 5’7, commercial gigs were pretty much it, and then having tattoos was less acceptable. Now with alternative models becoming much more popular and acceptable, I haven’t had any issues.

Question 5. When did you get your first body art?

I got my first tattoo when I was 16. It was an Italian flag.

Question 6. How many more do you plan to get?

Not sure. I have an appointment coming up to have my other hand tattooed. I hope I’m still getting tattooed when I’m 60.

Question 7. Where do you see yourself 5 years down the line?

In 5 years I’m hoping to travel more, and continue to grow and expand my business as a freelance hairstylist.

Question 8. Share some of the stereotypes that you have had to break in order to do what you love.

I don’t feel I’ve had to deal much with that, to be honest. I march to the beat of my own drum and do what I want and don’t care much about other’s opinions, especially if they are negative. It’s important in this industry to be confident in yourself, and it’s amazing to see industry standards changing with so much body positivity in older models, LGBTQ models, alternative models, curvy models, etc.

Question 9. If you could remove or change one thing in the world, what would it be?

Hate and negativity, especially considering the issue amongst females. We should be building each other up, not tearing each other down. Oh and winter because I do not enjoy the cold.

Question 10. What is the one thing you would say is essential for every model to imbibe in their personality?

To be confident and not cocky, there’s a big difference between the two. Feel comfortable with who you are and that will exude through your work.

Question 11. What are your style secret and your go-to attire?

I love to have fun with fashion. I might have a shopping problem. I enjoy classic looks and styles but mixed with a fun edgy element. I never over-accessorize, I feel that takes away focus from an outfit. Layers and patterns and a killer shoe never fail.

Question 12. Have you ever had to hide your tattoos for a photoshoot?

Never have and don’t think I would, it’s a part of who I am, although it would be interesting to see what I would look like in bare skin.

Question 13. You have been into sports for a long time so what made you change your mind and try modeling?

I played competitive soccer for years, traveling and also in college. I played in some rec leagues up until 2 years ago, now just play charity tournaments. That is when I started getting into kickboxing. I have actually modeled on and off since I was 18. I was with an agency for a bit, and also placed 3rd in an online competition called “Canada’s next top model” this was all before social media took off, which has made it easier to network and get your name and face out there.

Question 14. How do people perceive your work as a model as well as a kickboxer?

I’m professional and hardworking, I like to push myself but also love to have fun.

Question 15. Does kickboxing help you maintain your figure or you need to do extra to achieve that model body?

I’ve always been active for the majority of my life and eat pretty healthy, I stay away from processed foods, and I try and eat a lot of clean and lean foods. I love to cook, but yes it definitely helps me stay toned and in better shape.

Question 16. Having the ability to perform both modeling and kickboxing is quite the accomplishment. Describe one quality from each that has helped you improve your abilities in the other.

I think staying in shape has helped me physically, and it’s helped with modeling in regards to certain poses enhancing my flexibility and becoming more confident

Question 17. In each of the areas, describe a goal you have for yourself?

I’d like to have an immature fight one day, and with modeling, I guess I’d hope to make a few more cover features, and do some destination shoots.