The Miss Universe 2025 pageant has stirred controversy as several contestants, including Miss Mexico Fátima Bosch, walked out during a recent event following a confrontation with Thai pageant director Nawat Itsaragrisil. The incident occurred just before a slated sash ceremony and was live-streamed on Facebook by Miss Universe Thailand.
Nawat, who holds the position of Vice President for Asia and Oceania for the Miss Universe Organization (MUO) and is also the director of the Miss Grand International (MGI) pageant, publicly called out Bosch regarding her absence from a promotional shoot earlier in the day. During their exchange, he used derogatory language, referring to her as “dumb.” In response to Bosch’s protest regarding the treatment she was receiving, Nawat allegedly summoned security.
The altercation prompted Bosch and several other contestants, including reigning Miss Universe Victoria Kjær Theilvig, to leave the venue in solidarity. The incident rapidly gained traction on social media, with some viewing the contestants’ departure as a powerful stand against disrespect within the pageant community. Among those who walked out were delegates from Armenia, Canada, Palestine, Bahamas, Cape Verde, Spain, Belize, Bolivia, and Bulgaria.
In a post-incident interview, Bosch expressed her admiration for Thailand yet condemned Nawat’s behavior, stating, “What the director just did was disrespectful; he called me ‘dumb’ because he has issues with the organization.” The current Miss Universe also voiced her support for Bosch, reinforcing the notion of unity among contestants.
The Miss Universe Mexico organization released a supportive statement, labeling the incident as unacceptable and emphasizing that no woman deserves to be disrespected on any stage. “Today and always, Mexico stands with you, Fátima. Your strength, your class, and your voice represent the best of our nation,” the statement declared.
In the aftermath, the Miss Universe Organization issued an official response that reaffirmed its commitment to respect, safety, and collaboration, although it did not directly address the altercation or name Nawat Itsaragrisil. The statement underscored that all scheduled events would proceed as planned, emphasizing the values of diversity, empowerment, and inclusion that are central to the Miss Universe legacy.
This incident may serve as a rallying point for advocating respect and equality within the pageant industry, as contestants unite against disrespectful behavior, demonstrating their solidarity and commitment to uplifting one another.