BANGKOK – The upcoming Miss Universe 2025 competition in Thailand has been engulfed in controversy after a heated confrontation between a senior pageant official and Miss Universe Mexico, Fátima Bosch, triggered an unprecedented contestant walkout, led by reigning Miss Universe Victoria Theilvig.
The incident occurred during a live-streamed sashing ceremony on the Miss Universe Thailand Facebook page, where Nawat Itsaragrisil, the organisation’s vice president for Asia and Oceania, publicly scolded Bosch for allegedly missing a sponsor shoot earlier that day.
Accusing her of showing “no respect,” Itsaragrisil demanded Bosch stand up and “explain herself” before other contestants. Bosch defended herself, saying she wanted to “use my voice” to stand up for her dignity — prompting Itsaragrisil to call her “a dumb act” and order security to remove her.
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Before she was escorted out, dozens of contestants stood up and walked out in protest, despite threats of disqualification. Outside the venue, Miss Universe 2024 Victoria Theilvig voiced support for Bosch, calling the confrontation “beyond disrespectful” and declaring, “This is about women’s rights.”
Bosch later told Thai media she was called “dumb” and told to “shut up,” vowing to stand firm for women’s empowerment. “I came here to be a voice for all women who fight for causes, and I’m not afraid to make my voice heard,” she said.
Hours later, Itsaragrisil apologised in a TikTok livestream, claiming frustration over “daily problems” due to absent organisers and promising to “take good care” of Bosch.
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The Miss Universe Organisation later issued a statement reaffirming its commitment to empowerment, diversity, and inclusion, while its president Raúl Rocha Cantú condemned Itsaragrisil’s actions as “an abuse of power.” Cantú confirmed that Itsaragrisil’s role in this year’s event had been restricted, with newly appointed CEO Mario Búcaro travelling to Thailand to oversee the remainder of the pageant.
The Miss Universe 2025 coronation is scheduled for November 20 in Bangkok, Thailand.