Miss Universe 2025 faces backlash after Miss Mexico leaves the event over a public insult by the Thai director, sparking global calls for respect and accountability.
The Miss Universe 2025 pageant in Bangkok has been rocked by controversy after Miss Mexico, Fátima Bosch, walked out of a pre-event ceremony following a public altercation with a senior Thai pageant director. The incident, which occurred on Monday November 3, has gone viral and triggered widespread demands for change within the beauty pageant industry.
Eyewitnesses and viral footage revealed that Nawat Itsaragrisil, a prominent figure overseeing Miss Universe operations in Asia and Oceania, harshly criticized Bosch for not promoting Thailand on her social media platforms. The exchange, reportedly heated, escalated quickly when Bosch attempted to defend herself. Itsaragrisil interrupted her, called her “dumb,” and ordered security to remove her in front of dozens of attendees.
The confrontation unfolded during the official sash ceremony—one of the major pre-pageant events—just weeks before the grand finale. The incident has sparked outrage among women’s rights advocates, fans, and fellow contestants. Reigning Miss Universe Victoria Kjær Theilvig of Denmark led a walkout in protest, declaring that no woman should face such disrespect on a stage meant to empower.
“This platform is supposed to uplift us,” Bosch said later to the press. “I was humiliated for standing up for myself. Empowerment should not come with conditions.”
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In response to mounting pressure, the Miss Universe Organization (MUO) issued a public statement condemning Itsaragrisil’s behavior, citing a “serious violation of respect and dignity.” MUO President Raúl Rocha confirmed that the director’s role in the competition has been restricted pending an internal review. He emphasized that the organization remains committed to the safety and well-being of all contestants.
Following the backlash, Itsaragrisil issued an apology on Tuesday November 4, 2025, admitting his tone “may have caused discomfort.” His remarks, however, did little to quell criticism. Many argue his apology lacked sincerity, pointing to the broader culture of disrespect within some areas of pageantry.
Despite the tension, the final Miss Universe 2025 coronation will proceed on November 21, with 90 delegates competing for the crown. The event, set to air on Telemundo and Peacock, now carries a heavier message—one that extends beyond pageantry. As Bosch stated in a powerful social media post: “Respect is not optional. Empowerment is our right.”