Harry Uzoka - who had modelled for brands including Mercedes and Zara - was found injured in Old Oak Road, Shepherd's Bush, just before 4pm on Thursday.
Police believe the 25-year-old was assaulted and stabbed outside a block of flats by more than one person, before staggering to a nearby street.
He was pronounced dead at the scene at 5pm.
Two men, aged 27 and 28, have been arrested on suspicion of murder.
Detective Inspector Beverley Kofi said: "This is another tragic murder with a young male victim who has met a violent death.
"We believe that the incident started at Ollgar House, in Ollgar Close, and the victim was assaulted and stabbed before staggering and collapsing in Old Oak Road.
"We believe there were a number of people involved, but we are still working to establish the circumstances and a possible motive."
Mr Uzoka was signed to Premier Model Management - one of the world's top modelling agencies, responsible for launching supermodel Naomi Campbell's career.
Premier posted several shots of Mr Uzoka on their Instagram page, writing that they were "heartbroken" and offering their "thoughts and prayers" to his family and friends.
He had recently modelled for GQ magazine, who posted a picture from the shoot on Instagram, saying they were "stunned" to hear of his death, and offered their condolences.
An outpouring of tributes on social media included a tweet from fellow model Jourdan Dunn, who wrote: "Wow... I just woke up to the news about Harry Uzoka." She posted a picture of Mr Uzoka calling him a "young king".
Singer MNEK wrote on Twitter: "Just read about the murder of Harry Uzoka. SHOCKED. i met him various times and thought he was always so cool. my heart goes out to his family. RIP."
Eighty people died in 2017 as a result of knife crime in the capital.
Figures from the Mayor's Office of Policing and Crime which show knife crime was up 31.3% year-on-year between 2015-16 and 2016-17.
Police have urged anyone with information to contact them on 0208 358 0100 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.