Chaos at Miss Universe 2025: Miss Mexico walks out after Thai director calls her dumb in shocking confrontation

The glittering world of Miss Universe 2025 took an unexpected turn into controversy when Miss Mexico, Fátima Bosch, stormed out of a pre-pageant event in Bangkok after being publicly insulted by Thai pageant director Nawat Itsaragrisil. The shocking incident, which unfolded on November 3, has ignited global outrage and prompted calls for accountability within the beauty pageant industry.

According to multiple reports and viral social media footage, tensions flared when Itsaragrisil—who oversees Miss Universe operations in Asia and Oceania—accused Bosch of failing to promote the host country, Thailand, on her social media platforms. Witnesses said the situation quickly escalated as he berated the contestant in front of dozens of delegates.

When Bosch attempted to defend herself, Itsaragrisil allegedly interrupted her and called her “dumb,” ordering security to remove her from the room. His tone and manner were so demeaning that several contestants, including reigning Miss Universe Victoria Kjær Theilvig of Denmark, stood up and walked out in protest.

“This platform is supposed to empower women, not silence them,” Bosch later told reporters. “I was humiliated for simply standing up for myself. I have done everything required of me, yet I was told to shut up.”

The confrontation took place during the contestants’ sash ceremony, a major prelude to the upcoming Miss Universe final set for November 21. Footage of the incident, which was broadcast live, has since gone viral, sparking outrage among fans and women’s rights advocates across the world.

Miss Universe Organization Responds

In a swift and decisive statement, the Miss Universe Organization (MUO) condemned Itsaragrisil’s behavior, describing it as a “serious violation of respect and dignity.” MUO announced that the Thai director’s participation in this year’s competition would be “restricted” pending further investigation.

“Miss Universe stands as a global platform for women’s empowerment. What occurred in Bangkok goes against everything we represent,” said MUO President Raúl Rocha in a public address.

He further added that MUO will “take all necessary measures” to ensure the well-being and safety of every delegate competing this year.

Widespread Solidarity Among Contestants

The walkout has become a symbolic moment for many contestants who view Bosch’s treatment as part of a larger issue of disrespect towards women in the pageant industry.

“This is not just about Miss Mexico—it’s about dignity,” said Theilvig, the reigning Miss Universe, as she left the event. “No woman should be spoken to that way in public or private. We’re standing together.”

Other contestants echoed her sentiment online, using hashtags like #RespectMissUniverse and #StandWithFatima to express support.

Nawat Itsaragrisil Issues an Apology

Following the backlash, Itsaragrisil released a public apology on November 4, admitting that his tone “may have caused discomfort.” He stated: “If anyone felt bad, uncomfortable, or affected, I apologize sincerely to all contestants.”

However, critics have called the apology “too little, too late,” with some suggesting that his remarks have done irreparable damage to the image of the Thai organizing team.

The MUO has since dispatched a delegation of executives to Thailand to oversee final preparations and to prevent further incidents.

What’s Next for Miss Universe 2025?

Despite the controversy, the Miss Universe 2025 competition is moving ahead as planned, with the final coronation night scheduled for November 21 in Bangkok. The event will be broadcast live on Telemundo and Peacock, with 90 contestants vying for the crown.

For many, however, this year’s competition has already become more than just a beauty contest—it’s a moment of reckoning for how women are treated in high-profile global platforms.

As Bosch herself declared in a heartfelt social media post:
“From Mexico to the world: Respect is not optional. Empowerment is not a trend. It is our right.”

FAQs

1. What caused the Miss Universe 2025 controversy?
Miss Mexico, Fátima Bosch, was publicly insulted by Thai pageant director Nawat Itsaragrisil, who called her “dumb” during a pre-pageant event.

2. How did other contestants react?
Several contestants, including reigning Miss Universe Victoria Kjær Theilvig, walked out of the event in solidarity with Bosch.

3. What was the Miss Universe Organization’s response?
MUO condemned the Thai director’s behavior and restricted his participation in the event.

4. When is the Miss Universe 2025 final taking place?
The final competition will be held on November 21, 2025, in Bangkok, Thailand.

5. Did Nawat Itsaragrisil apologize?
Yes, he issued a public apology on November 4, saying he was sorry if anyone felt “uncomfortable.”