Top model Sam Ajdani is all set to fly to the United Kingdom this July to compete in the Mister World 2016 pageant.

The 26-year-old Filipino-Persian model has been appointed by Cory Quirino, the Philippine franchise owner of the Miss and Mister World pageants, two years ago to represent the Philippines. With an ample time to prepare, Sam is now physically and mentally ready to win the elusive title for the country which was almost won by Andrew Wolff in 2012. Wolff’s 1st runner up finish that year was and is still the best placement by an Asian delegate in the London-based pageant so far. Our 2014 delegate John Spainhour failed to make it in the Top 10.

In an interview by The Standard, Sam revealed that he is not fond of competitions. But when asked to represent the country in Mister World, his gut tells otherwise.

“I never thought of it. I never even dreamed of it. It wasn’t part of the plan but it happened. My agent encouraged me, and I thought about it overnight. Something told me to just do it, just go. I usually listen to my feelings when it comes to these things. I know I don’t like competitions much, but let’s see what happens,” he said.

Since 1996, no man from Asia has snagged the Mister World title. Will Sam become the first?

The grand finale of Mister World 2016 will take place on Tuesday, July 19, in the Floral Hall at the Southport Theatre Convention Centre (STCC) in London, with preliminary events taking place in the local area in the 10 days leading up to the final. The 26+ gorgeous delegates from around the globe will stay at the Prince of Wales Hotel.