Josef O’Brien chatted with #Powerjournalist Markos Papadatos about competing as Mister International USA.
Winston Church once said: “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” This quote applies to Josef O’Brien.
He is a chemical engineer, and he is a professional rugby player who plays for both Rugby Football Club Los Angeles and Belmont Shore Rugby Football Club.
In the 2024 Mister USA competition, he finished in third place as the second runner-up. “Placing third overall at Mister USA was huge for me. I was very excited for my friends Cormac and Daryn (as I had pinned them to win from the start), but I was out of my element when it came to modeling and performing on stage,” he said.
“I am an athlete first and foremost, so when my body was exposed next to the others, I felt a little out of place. I believe my personality truly shined that day and is what truly pushed me towards the final Top 5,” he added.
Jino Cabrera serves as president and CEO of the Mister Universe organization.
On his experience competing in Mister International, he said, “It was an incredible experience. I had never been to Asia before this and from the moment I stepped off the plane, the Mister International team was there greeting me and ensuring I had everything I needed to be successful. We were well fed and never had to stress (except during the pageant). Everyone was committed to making it a great experience for two weeks.”
On repping the United States in Mister International, he said, “It was a different feeling than when I was at Mister USA. This pageant was on the world stage! Every movement I made was watched and it was funny sharing my countries values and customs with the guys around me.
O’Brien was named “Mister Congeniality” at this year’s Mister International competition. “I was truly honored to win that title,” he said. “Not only did I come into the pageant to be successful, but I came in trying to make some new friends and connections around the world. To be given the title of Mister Congeniality showcases that I truly did touch the hearts of my fellow contenders. I would like to thank all who voted for me and I am excited to see them all soon, wherever that may be.”
On his New Year’s resolutions, O’Brien revealed, “My current resolution is to try and gain 25 pounds of muscle for rugby. Never been 225 to 230 pounds before. Think it would be a game changer.”
On the lessons learned from his pageantry journey in 2024, O’Brien said, “The journey revived the idea of modeling for me. I had an idea of possibly modeling when I was in high school, but after multiple stitches in my face from Rugby injuries, I let that dream fade. Now I have an opportunity to potentially revive that dream and keep it alive this time.”
Regarding his future plans, O’Brien shared, “My current plans are to relax for a bit. Since August, I have been nonstop going, going, and going. I have my Rugby season to look forward to as well as the U14 coaching I am doing this season. Hopping to figure out the next move here in a couple months.”
On the best advice that he has ever been given, he revealed: “To kind to everyone.” “Treat the janitor like he is the CEO of the company,” he said.
For his fans, he said, “Thank you for all the support over the past few months. It has been an incredible ride and I am happy for all my family, friends, and fans that were able to watch and support me. This is not the end but the beginning!”
For more information on Josef O’Brien, follow him on Instagram.
