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Tensions within the Miss Universe 2025 competition escalated Tuesday after Thai pageant executive Nawat Itsaragrisil confronted Miss Mexico, Fatima Bosch, during a livestreamed event in Bangkok, sparking a walkout by several contestants and a social media firestorm that has quickly gone global.
The incident unfolded during a sashing ceremony held at the delegates’ hotel, where Nawat, who serves as Vice President for Asia and Oceania within the Miss Universe Organization (MUO), publicly questioned Bosch’s absence from a sponsor shoot earlier that day. The exchange, broadcast live on the Miss Universe Thailand Facebook page, showed Nawat asking Bosch to stand and explain her absence while cameras rolled.
During the exchange he called her “dumb” and after she refused to be belitteled and insisted in “using my voice,” he called “the guns, security”.
The Mexican contestant appeared visibly uncomfortable before quietly leaving the room.
Within minutes, several other delegates and the current Miss Universe Victoria Kjær Theilvig, followed, walking out in a rare show of solidarity that drew cheers online from fans and influencers who described the moment as “the most empowering act in Miss Universe history.”
@jasper_wakin98 BREAKING NEWS MISS UNIVERSE 2025 What no one expected just happened in Thailand Mr. Nawat Itsaragrisil, director of Miss Grand International, publicly lashed out at Fatima Bosh and the Miss Universe Mexico organization, generating a strong controversy during the band imposition event. Facing tension, Nawat decided to withdraw from the event, while several female candidates opted to leave the ceremony in disagreement with the incident. If it were not enough, the current Miss Universe, Victoria, would have also shown her annoyance at the situation, making it clear that this was completely out of control. Social networks are exploding with reactions, and the public is demanding an official response from the organizations involved. & #MissUniverse2025 #fyp #MissUniverseMexico #BreakingNews #MissUniverseThailand
♬ original sound – Jhake – Jhake
Clips of the confrontation have gone viral on TikTok, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter), where hashtags such as #StandWithMexico, #JusticeForFatima, and #MissUniverseThailand have trended worldwide. Viewers have accused the Thai executive of humiliating Bosch in public, while others have called on the Miss Universe Organization to address the issue directly.
Miss Mexico talked to the media after leaving the conference. “I really love Thailand, and respect everybody”, and explained that she was disrespected and wouldn’t stand for it.
Miss Universe Mexico Defends Fatima Bosch
In the hours following the livestream, Miss Universe México released a strong statement condemning the incident and expressing solidarity with Bosch.
“What happened today with @fatimaboschfdz in Thailand is unacceptable. No woman, on any stage, deserves to be insulted or humiliated,” the statement read. “We firmly believe in the values that Miss Universe promotes: respect, dignity, and empowerment… The behavior of a person who does not belong to MU does not represent our beloved organization.”
The post ended with a direct message to Bosch: “Today and always, Mexico stands with you, Fátima. Your strength, your class, and your voice represent the best of our nation.” The hashtags #WeStandWithFatima and #NawatDoesNotRepresentMU quickly became rallying cries across Latin America, with national directors and fans echoing their support.
Miss Universe Organization Reacts
Hours later, the Miss Universe Organization released an official statement from Bangkok reaffirming its commitment to respect, safety, and collaboration.
“The Miss Universe Organization (MUO) reaffirms its commitment to working closely with the host community, the Miss Grand International Organization (MGI), and all local partners to ensure the continued success of the 74th Miss Universe competition,” the statement read.
“A high-level delegation, led by Chief Executive Officer Mario Búcaro, is traveling to Thailand to strengthen collaboration with the host country, MGI, and relevant authorities. This mission aims to coordinate efforts, ensure a secure and professional environment for all delegates, and reaffirm MUO’s commitment to transparency, respect, and unity.”
“All scheduled events and activities will continue as planned, reaffirming our shared goal of delivering an exceptional celebration that reflects the values of diversity, empowerment, and inclusion that define the Miss Universe legacy.”
While the MUO did not directly name Nawat Itsaragrisil or reference the confrontation, the statement signals an attempt to de-escalate tensions and restore order before the competition’s final stretch.
A Growing Power Struggle
Nawat, the founder and president of Miss Grand International, joined Miss Universe operations earlier this year after his company acquired shares previously held by JKN Global Group, led by former MUO CEO Anne Jakrajutatip. His appointment was seen as a move to strengthen the pageant’s reach in Asia.
However, the Bangkok confrontation has exposed deeper divisions within MUO leadership. Industry observers point to a growing power struggle between Nawat and current MUO president Raul Rocha, describing it as a clash of vision and control that has trickled down to production staff and delegates.
The Miss Universe 2025 coronation night remains scheduled for November 21 at Bangkok’s Impact Arena, where 90 delegates from around the world will compete for the crown. Will the pageant go on?
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