THE Miss Universe 2025 pageant, set to be held in Bangkok, has been overshadowed by controversy after a confrontation between a senior pageant official and Miss Universe Mexico triggered a walkout by several contestants — including the reigning Miss Universe, Victoria Theilvig.
The incident occurred during a livestreamed sashing ceremony on the Miss Universe Thailand Facebook page, where Nawat Itsaragrisil, vice president for Asia and Oceania at the Miss Universe Organisation, publicly berated Fátima Bosch for allegedly missing a sponsor-related photoshoot earlier in the day.
Accusing her of showing “no respect”, Itsaragrisil ordered her to stand and “explain herself” before the other delegates. Bosch, visibly uncomfortable, resisted being singled out, stating that she wished to “use my voice” to defend herself. Itsaragrisil replied by describing her behaviour as “a dumb act” and instructed security personnel to escort her out.
Before Bosch could be removed, dozens of contestants rose from their seats and began walking out in protest.
Many contestants walk out after Miss Mexico criticised during live-streamed ceremony in Bangkok
“Stop, stop. Sit down!” Itsaragrisil can be heard shouting in the livestream, warning that those who continued to leave risked disqualification. The delegates continued to walk out regardless.
‘Women’s rights’
Outside the venue, Miss Universe 2024 Victoria Theilvig voiced her support for Bosch, telling reporters: “This is about women’s rights. We have respect for everyone, but this is not how things can be handled. To trash another girl, it’s beyond disrespectful. That’s why I’m taking my coat and I’m going.”
Bosch later told Thai media that she had been called “dumb” and “told to shut up”.
“I just try to be kind and do my best,” she said. “The world needs to see this, because we are empowered women and no one can shut our voice… no one will do that to me.”
In another interview, she reiterated her purpose: “We’re in the 21st century. I’m not a doll to be made up and styled. I came here to be a voice for women who fight for causes, and I’m not afraid to make my voice heard.”
Itsaragrisil issues apology
Hours later, Itsaragrisil went live on TikTok to address the backlash. He claimed several contestants had refused to take part in promotional recordings for pageant sponsors and said he had been managing “daily problems” due to the absence of Miss Universe Organisation officials in Thailand. While defending his frustrations, he extended an apology to delegates who had remained in the hall and to international viewers.
“If anything happened today, and you are not happy, some delegate feeling not comfortable, I do apologise, and also to the fans around the world. But please understand our side too,” he said, adding that he would “take good care” of Bosch and “resolve the issue with her”..
Organisation’s response
Following widespread criticism online, the Miss Universe Organisation (MUO) issued a statement. “The MUO reaffirms its commitment to working closely with host community, the Miss Grand International Organisation, and all local partners to ensure the continued success of the 74th Miss Universe competition. Together we are dedicated to upholding the highest standard of respect, safety and integrity for all participants, staff and stakeholders.
All scheduled events and activities will continue as planned.”
Video statement
Separately, MUO President Raúl Rocha Cantú released a strongly worded video statement condemning Itsaragrisil’s “malicious acts” towards Bosch.
“He humiliated, insulted, and intimidated a defenceless woman, trying to silence and exclude her,” Cantú said, calling the behaviour “an abuse of power” driven by “a constant desire to be the centre of attention.”
The organisation confirmed that Itsaragrisil’s participation in this year’s events has been “restricted” and may be revoked entirely pending further “corporate and legal actions”.
Newly appointed MUO CEO Mario Búcaro will travel to Thailand to oversee the remainder of the competition, which is scheduled to conclude with the crowning ceremony on Nov 20.
Published in Dawn, November 6th, 2025
