Several contestants have walked out of a Miss Universe event after Miss Mexico, Fatima Bosch, was publicly berated by Miss Universe Thailand director Nawat Itsaragrisil during a shocking confrontation caught on livestream.
What Happened
During a pre-pageant ceremony, Nawat scolded Bosch in front of dozens of contestants for not posting promotional content. When she tried to defend herself, he reportedly called her “dumb” and ordered security to intervene, threatening to disqualify anyone who stood and supported her.
Video footage shows several contestants, including reigning Miss Universe Victoria Kjaer Theilvig of Denmark, standing up and walking out in solidarity. “This is about women’s rights,” Theilvig said. “To trash another girl is beyond disrespectful.”
Miss Universe Responds
The Miss Universe Organization (MUO) swiftly condemned Nawat’s “malicious” behavior, calling it a “serious abuse.” MUO President Raul Rocha said Nawat had “humiliated, insulted, and showed a lack of respect” to Bosch, adding that his participation in the pageant would be “limited or eliminated entirely.” Rocha emphasized that Miss Universe “is an empowerment platform for women so that their voices can be heard in the world.”
Miss Mexico Speaks Out
Bosch, 25, later addressed the incident, saying she refused to stay silent. “I just want to let my country know, I’m not afraid to make my voice heard,” she said. “We’re in the 21st century. I’m not a doll to be made up, styled, and have my clothes changed. I came here to be a voice for all the women and all the girls who fight for causes.”
Nawat has since issued a public apology, claiming his words were misunderstood and that he didn’t intend to offend anyone.
The Bigger Picture
While the Miss Universe competition continues in Bangkok, this controversy has reignited conversations about how women in pageantry are treated—both onstage and behind the scenes. For Bosch and those who walked out beside her, the message is clear: empowerment means standing up, even when it’s uncomfortable.
The 2025 Miss Universe winner will be crowned on November 21.
