Controversy Erupts at Miss Universe 2025 in Thailand: Walkouts, Insults, and Tears Steal the Spotlight.
The Miss Universe pageant in Thailand, meant to celebrate global beauty and empowerment, has instead turned into a spectacle of off-stage drama — complete with accusations of disrespect, contestant walkouts, and a tearful public apology from the event’s host.
More than 120 contestants from around the world have gathered in Thailand for the prestigious competition, but tensions flared after a confrontation between Miss Mexico, Fátima Bosch, and pageant host Nawat Itsaragrisil, a well-known Thai television personality.
‘He Called Me Dumb’: Miss Mexico Walks Out
The controversy erupted during a livestreamed meeting earlier this week when Nawat appeared to single out Bosch for allegedly failing to post promotional material on social media. In the heated exchange, he was accused of calling her a “dumbhead” — a claim he later denied.
As security staff approached, Bosch — dressed in an evening gown and high heels — walked out of the event, flanked by Miss Iraq, who joined her in protest. “What your director did is not respectful — he called me dumb,” Bosch told reporters outside. “We are empowered women, and this platform should amplify our voices.”
Several contestants appeared to support her before Nawat instructed others still participating to “sit down.”
Backlash Reaches Mexico’s President
The incident quickly spread across social media and caught the attention of Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, who praised Bosch’s stance. “She is an example of how women should speak out,” Sheinbaum said, adding that “women look even stronger when they raise their voices.”
Mexico’s embassy in Thailand confirmed it is “in constant communication” with Bosch and her family but declined to provide further details.
Miss Universe Organization Steps In
The uproar prompted a public response from Miss Universe Organization president Raul Rocha, who criticized Nawat’s conduct. “I will not allow the values of respect and dignity toward women to be violated,” Rocha said in a statement. “Unfortunately, Nawat has forgotten the true meaning of what it means to be a genuine host.”
He accused Nawat of “public aggression” and said his role in the pageant would be restricted going forward.
Tears and Apology on Stage
Soon after, Nawat appeared at a press conference dressed in a tuxedo, wiping away tears as he said he felt “betrayed.” At the competition’s opening ceremony the next evening, he issued a public apology.
“I am human,” he said. “The pressure is a lot. I have never intended to harm anyone because I respect all of you. I am truly sorry.”
A History of Pageant Drama
It’s not the first time Nawat has been at the center of controversy. As president of Miss Grand International, he has faced criticism for mistreating contestants. Last year, MGI participants complained about being made to sit on plastic chairs and eat peanuts during what was billed as a “luxury river cruise” in Cambodia.
Even before the current dispute, this year’s Miss Universe had already faced scrutiny when Thai police investigated contestants for allegedly filming promotional videos featuring casino-branded props — potentially violating Thailand’s strict gambling laws.
Comments are closed.