The Miss Universe 2025 pageant has been rocked by controversy after several contestants staged a walkout during a pre-event ceremony in Bangkok, Thailand, following the public humiliation of Miss Mexico, Fatima Bosch, by a top Thai official.
The incident unfolded when Nawat Itsaragrisil, director of Miss Universe Thailand, confronted Ms. Bosch in front of dozens of contestants, accusing her of failing to promote pageant-related content on social media. When she attempted to respond, he interrupted her repeatedly, raised his voice, and called for security, warning that anyone who left the room in protest would face disqualification.
Footage from the event, which was live-streamed, shows Ms. Bosch walking out as several contestants, many in their national sashes and gowns, rose to follow her in solidarity. Their defiance drew loud applause online, with viewers condemning what they described as “verbal abuse” and “bullying” in a competition meant to empower women.
In the viral video, Mr. Nawat can be heard saying, “If anyone wants to continue the contest, sit down. If you step out, the rest of the girls continue.” Despite the ultimatum, most contestants chose to stand and walk out.
Ms. Bosch later told reporters that Mr. Nawat had called her “dumb” during the altercation. “He was not respectful. I came here to represent my country and to use my voice, not to be insulted,” she said. “We’re in the 21st century. I’m not a doll to be styled and silenced.”
Mr. Nawat, a well-known Thai media personality, denied calling her “dumb” and insisted his words were mistranslated, claiming instead that he had accused her of “causing damage.” In a public apology video, he said, “If anyone feels bad or uncomfortable, I apologise to everyone, especially the girls who were present.”
The Miss Universe Organisation (MUO), which oversees the global franchise, condemned Mr. Nawat’s behaviour as “malicious and unacceptable.” MUO President Raul Rocha said in a statement that his conduct “humiliated, insulted, and intimidated” a contestant and “forgot the true meaning of being a gracious host.”
Mr. Rocha confirmed that MUO executives had arrived in Thailand to take control of the pageant’s operations and would consider legal action against Mr. Nawat. “His participation will be limited as much as possible or eliminated entirely,” he stated, reaffirming that Miss Universe “is an empowerment platform for women whose voices must be respected.”
Among those who joined the walkout was reigning Miss Universe Victoria Kjaer Theilvig of Denmark, who said, “This is about women’s rights. To trash another girl publicly is beyond disrespectful. That’s why I’m walking out.”
The altercation has ignited global debate about respect, representation, and women’s empowerment within beauty pageants. Supporters online have praised Ms. Bosch for standing her ground and sparking what many are calling “a defining moment” in Miss Universe history.
Despite the uproar, the competition has continued, with contestants attending a welcome event in Bangkok on Wednesday. The 2025 Miss Universe coronation is scheduled for November 21.
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