EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — El Paso Community College nursing student Daniel Dominguez will represent the United States at the 10th Mister Universe International competition in Panama this November.
Dominguez won a casting call to compete as Mister Universe International USA 2026.
He will be among 46 contestants representing countries across five continents during the Nov. 1-9 event.
It will be a return to the international stage for Dominguez, who represented the United States at the Mister Teen Universe International competition in Panama in 2024 and won the teen title.
He will now compete in the adult division.
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Dominguez, a former Americas High School football player, has spoken about overcoming bullying, learning challenges and the death of his brother, officials with EPCC said.
After graduating from high school, he lost more than 60 pounds in about three months, an experience that inspired him to become a personal trainer and advocate for health.
He is continuing his nursing studies at EPCC and works for a home health care provider. Dominguez has also earned recognition as El Paso Top Model and Audi of El Paso Male Model of the Year, and has appeared in fashion events across the Southwest.
When I walk onto that stage wearing USA across my chest, I will also be carrying El Paso with me,” Dominguez said. “Everything I have gone through has prepared me for this moment.
He hopes to use his platform to promote healthier lifestyles, combat obesity and support older adults and medically vulnerable people.
His father, Juan Carlos Dominguez Sr., said he is proud of his son’s perseverance.
“What makes me proud isn’t simply seeing Daniel with a title or a sash. It’s seeing him overcome obstacles and continue working to become the best version of himself,” he said.
“I want young people in El Paso who are struggling to understand that where you are today does not have to be where you finish,” Dominguez said. “Keep working. Keep believing.”
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