Model-turned-fighter Rome Trinidad finds inspiration in Catriona Gray’s Miss U win

Mixed martial artist Rome Trinidad found an added source of inspiration in fellow Filipina and newly-crowned Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray.

Gray on Monday became the fourth Filipina to win the prestigious title, but her road to the top did not come without failures.

And that’s what Trinidad admired most from Gray, who kept going despite the adversities.

“Catriona is truly an inspiration for us women. She is a living proof that anything is possible through hard work,” Trinidad said.

The 24-year-old Gray, who is also a martial artist and an advocate of free education and HIV/AIDS awareness, topped 93 other candidates from across the globe, only made it to the Top Five of Miss World in 2016.

Two years later, Gray earned the right to represent the Philippines in the Miss Universe after ruling the the Binibining Pilipinas.

“She didn’t give up on her dream. Failures didn’t stop her to reach for her ultimate goal. It is empowering to have a fellow Filipina like Catriona Gray,” said Trinidad.

“We belong to a totally different kind of fields, but seeing her succeed boosts my morale and inspires me to pursue my dreams just like her.”

Trinidad, who was into modelling before becoming a professional fighter, hopes the extra motivation will help her have a better campaign next year.

Trinidad last saw action in May when she lost to Priscilla Hertati Lumban Gaol by submission in the first round in ONE: Grit & Glory.

“It proved to be a year of success for the Philippines. I am drawing inspiration from that success as I open a new chapter in 2019. Like them, I am not giving up. I will be back stronger than ever,” she vowed.