Since landing a gig as an Octagon Girl, and being the first-ever Filipina to do so, stunning model RED DELA CRUZ is fast becoming one of the hottest ringside properties in the UFC…
Hey, Red, tell us a bit about this shoot?
I’m so excited about this shoot because it’s my first magazine feature with MAXIM Australia. We shot this at Clovelly Beach in Sydney and it was such a beautiful location — not crowded at all. I fell in love with it.
How long have you been modelling?
I started modelling when I was 17 back in the Philippines. I was doing a lot of beauty pageants but then realised it wasn’t for me because most of the girls are over six foot tall and I’m only 5’5”. Height is a big difference in the modelling world. I then did some local TV shows and got introduced to a modelling agency.
When do you feel sexy?
When I’m at the gym. Every time I look at myself in the mirror I can see all of the hard work I’ve put in.
What is your best asset?
Probably my abs.
What would people be most surprised to know about you, Red?
Hmmm… I have five Persian cats!
You were the first-ever winner of the inaugural Octagon Girl Search in Asia. Why do you think you won?
It was nerve racking at first. I mean, there are 100 girls that auditioned and I was the chosen one. I think I won because of my fans – they supported me all the way until the end and I am very thankful for them. Winning it was one of the best moments in my life.
Describe what your life is like as a UFC Octagon Girl.
I’m very lucky to be part of the UFC — it’s the biggest Mixed Martial Arts organisation in the universe. And as one of their many Octagon Girls I get to meet a lot of different people while travelling around the world. It’s definitely opened a lot of doors for me and I get to do things like this feature shoot for MAXIM and also a lot more TV commercials.
Who is your favourite fighter?
Holly Holm – she always ends her fights with respect and professionalism.
You live in Australia now, right?
Yes, I’ve been living in Australia for over two years and I’m loving it – the culture, the people, the professional — and the food is very good, too! There’s more opportunities here than in my homeland the Philippines.
What’s the freakiest thing someone has sent you via social media?
Do you really want to know?! Naked pics! Haha… I just delete them straight away.
What do you find sexy in a man?
I like a romantic, honest and respectful man, with a good attitude, who is preferably tall and good looking. Oh, and I find beards attractive too.
What’s next for you?
I just finished up in Vegas for UFC International Week and there’s more in Asia and Australia this year. Stay tuned! ■
Photographed By Harry Hayes
Interview By Santi Pintado
For the full article grab the August 2018 issue of MAXIM Australia from newsagents and convenience locations. Subscribe here.
