Rudy Bundini sat down and chatted with #Powerjournalist Markos Papadatos, where he takes us behind the scenes in the life of a made model living in New York City.
The Glamour and Grit of NYC’s Fashion Scene
New York City is the epicenter of fashion, a place where dreams are made—or broken—on the runway. Amidst the flashing cameras and high-fashion moments, there’s an untold story of hard work, discipline, and perseverance. One model who knows this all too well is Rudy Bundini, a New York-based fashion model and former boxing heavyweight champion.
Named Male Model of the Year by the International Modeling & Talent Association (IMTA), Rudy has worked with some of the world’s most prestigious brands, yet his daily grind goes far beyond the glitz and glamour.
The Daily Routine: Discipline Meets Dedication
For Rudy, modeling isn’t just about showing up to a photoshoot and striking a pose—it’s a full-time commitment that starts from the moment he wakes up. His morning routine includes a structured workout to maintain peak physical condition, combining strength training, boxing drills, and cardio. “Modeling is just as demanding as any sport. Your body is your brand, and you have to stay disciplined,” he explains.
After a healthy breakfast packed with protein and nutrients, the day unfolds based on his packed schedule—whether it’s castings, fittings, or high-profile fashion events.
Castings: The Hustle Behind the Spotlight
The road to landing a campaign or runway show is never easy, even for an established model like Rudy. Castings can take up an entire day, requiring patience, resilience, and confidence. “Sometimes, you walk into a room filled with hundreds of models, and you have 30 seconds to make an impression,” he says.
The rejection rate is high, but persistence is key. “You learn to take rejection as motivation. Every ‘no’ brings you closer to the right opportunity,” Rudy shares.
Runway Experiences: The Adrenaline Rush of Fashion Week
When Fashion Week season arrives, the pace intensifies. From last-minute fittings to back-to-back runway shows, the pressure is on. “The energy backstage is electric—stylists, designers, and models all working in sync to create something magical,” Rudy describes.
He’s walked for major designers, and each show brings a new challenge. “The walk, the look, the attitude—it’s all carefully curated. One second of distraction can cost you everything,” he adds.
Thriving in the Competitive World of Modeling
What does it take to not just survive but thrive in the industry? According to Rudy, it’s a combination of work ethic, versatility, and networking. “You have to treat modeling like a business. It’s not just about looking good—it’s about branding yourself, making connections, and constantly evolving.”
Social media also plays a crucial role in a model’s career today. “Your online presence is just as important as your portfolio. Clients want to see engagement, personality, and influence,” he notes.
Beyond the Runway: The Man Behind the Model
Despite his high-profile career, Rudy remains grounded. His background as a former boxing champion instilled in him a fighter’s mentality—one that has helped him navigate the highs and lows of the industry.
“Boxing taught me resilience, discipline, and the importance of hard work. That same mindset applies to modeling. Success doesn’t happen overnight—you have to earn it,” he says.
Final Thoughts
Rudy Bundini’s life as a model in NYC is a blend of relentless ambition and unwavering dedication. Behind the polished magazine covers and flawless runway walks is a man who works tirelessly to stay on top of his game. His story is a testament to the reality that modeling isn’t just about looking good—it’s about perseverance, hustle, and an unbreakable drive to succeed.
For aspiring models, Rudy’s journey proves that while the fashion industry is competitive, those who put in the effort, stay resilient, and adapt will always find their place under the spotlight.
To learn more about Rudy Bundini, follow him on Instagram.
