Pageant Queen Rheanna Cartier Aims for Boxing Glory, Embracing Dual Passions
Rheanna Cartier, a 22-year-old pageant queen and former Swimsuit USA International Finalist, is breaking stereotypes by pursuing a career in boxing while continuing to compete in beauty contests. She believes that true beauty extends far beyond physical appearance, and her journey exemplifies this philosophy.
From Catwalk to Boxing Ring: A Unique Path
Rheanna, hailing from Guildford, Surrey, is currently preparing for the Miss Universe Great Britain competition in July, which serves as the UK qualifier for the global Miss Universe pageant. This event, held over a three-day weekend, brings together contestants from England, Scotland, and Wales to compete for the chance to represent Great Britain internationally. Despite her pageant commitments, boxing has become a central focus in her life.
"What has motivated me to continue is the confidence pageantry has given me," Rheanna explained. "I entered my first competition at 17 and was extremely shy. Since then, I’ve competed in four international pageants across three continents, and I feel I’ve grown immensely both personally and professionally."
Pageantry as a Foundation for Confidence
Rheanna credits pageants with pushing her beyond her comfort zone, fostering personal growth and lifelong friendships. She argues that modern pageants have evolved significantly from their traditional focus on looks.
"I believe pageants have changed a lot over the years," she added. "Looks are no longer the deciding factor. It’s more about confidence, purpose, impact and the message you bring."
This newfound confidence directly influenced her decision to take up boxing. After participating in an Ultra White Collar Boxing bout, she returned to kickboxing but soon realized her passion for boxing was stronger. She joined a local boxing club and is now training in a development class, with hopes of having her next bout later this year.
Embracing the Challenges of Boxing
Boxing has taught Rheanna discipline, resilience, and an even deeper sense of confidence. When asked about potential injuries, especially concerns related to her modelling career, she acknowledged the risks but emphasized her love for the sport.
"I do, but I love boxing so much," she said. "Some people question it because of my modelling background and worry about my face, but to me boxing means more than modelling. It’s something I genuinely love."
She finds the contrast between pageantry and boxing refreshing, noting that fellow pageant contestants have been supportive of her dual pursuits. Rheanna believes that combining these worlds challenges outdated stereotypes.
"Being both a beauty queen and a boxer shows that stereotypes don’t have to exist," she claimed. "Women don’t need to fit into just one box."
Prioritizing Passion Over Convention
While Rheanna still enjoys modelling and pageants, which have been part of her life for years, boxing has taken precedence. She views the integration of both interests as a positive development.
"Boxing has definitely become my main focus," she stated. "I still enjoy modelling and pageants, but right now, I’m really enjoying putting boxing first. I’m going to continue developing, and one day I would love to win a boxing title."
Her story highlights a shift in how beauty and strength are perceived, demonstrating that individuals can excel in seemingly disparate fields without compromise.
