The Miss Universe pageant, usually known for its glitz and celebration of womanhood, has found itself at the centre of an unexpected storm. What was meant to be a glamorous prelude to the global competition turned sour when Miss Universe Mexico, Fátima Bosch, was publicly berated by executive director Nawat Itsaragrisil in front of contestants and cameras — an incident that has since gone viral and sparked widespread outrage.
The Moment That Sparked It All
It all began during a sash ceremony earlier this week. In a now-viral TikTok video, Itsaragrisil is seen confronting Bosch for not participating in certain promotional activities. The exchange quickly escalated, with the Thai businessman ordering security to remove her from the venue while she tried to explain herself.
“We respect you, just as you should respect us,” Bosch said, maintaining her composure. “I’m here representing my country, and it’s not my fault you have problems with my organisation.”
When she stood up and left, several contestants, including reigning Miss Universe Victoria Kjær of Denmark, followed in solidarity — a moment many fans online have since described as “a powerful show of sisterhood.”
“He Called Me Dumb”: Bosch Speaks Out
After the confrontation, Bosch spoke to the media outside the event, revealing that Itsaragrisil had insulted her directly. “He called me dumb because he has problems with the organisation,” she said. “That’s not fair because I’m here doing everything right. I don’t mess with anyone.”
Her comments have since gained traction across social media, with hashtags like #StandWithFatima and #MissUniverse2025 trending as fans and former pageant contestants condemned the executive’s behaviour.
Miss Universe Organisation Responds
The backlash was swift. Within hours, Miss Universe president Raul Rocha released a public statement condemning the incident and announcing that Nawat Itsaragrisil had been dismissed from all pageant duties.
“Unfortunately, Nawat has forgotten the true meaning of what it means to be a genuine host,” Rocha said. “I am greatly indignant at the public aggression committed against Fátima Bosch. He humiliated, insulted, and disrespected her — even calling security to intimidate a defenceless woman.”
Rocha confirmed that Itsaragrisil would no longer participate in any events related to the 74th Miss Universe Competition, adding that the organisation stands firmly with Bosch and all contestants.
Social Media And Cultural Reaction
Pageant fans, celebrities, and women’s rights advocates around the world have rallied behind Bosch, calling the moment a “wake-up call” for the global beauty industry. In Latin America, local outlets hailed her as a symbol of dignity and courage, while in Thailand, where Itsaragrisil is a public figure, opinions have been sharply divided.
South African fans also weighed in on X, with one user writing, “This isn’t just about Miss Universe — it’s about respect. Women shouldn’t be humiliated on global stages.”
A Reminder Of What Miss Universe Should Stand For
The Miss Universe organisation has long positioned itself as a platform for empowerment, diversity, and grace under pressure. But this scandal has raised critical questions about how contestants are treated behind the scenes — and whether the pageant’s leadership truly lives up to its message.
For now, Fátima Bosch remains one of the most talked-about contestants in the world, not just for her beauty or poise, but for the strength she showed in standing up for herself — and, in many ways, for women everywhere.
Source: IOL
Image Source: La Colonia Juarez on X
