Miss Universe Contestants Walk Out After Miss Mexico Was Berated
A video of a confrontation at a Miss Universe pre-pageant event in Thailand has gone viral, showing several contestants walking out after Miss Mexico, Fatima Bosch, was publicly admonished by the event director.
Incident at the Pre-Pageant Ceremony
During Tuesday’s ceremony, held ahead of the main competition, Miss Universe Thailand director Nawat Itsaragrisil criticized Fatima Bosch for not posting required promotional material. The tense moment was witnessed by dozens of contestants wearing their sashes and gowns.
"If anyone wants to continue the contest, sit down. If you step out, the rest of the girls continue."
Mr. Nawat called security and reportedly threatened to disqualify those who supported Bosch. When Bosch objected to his comments, he raised his voice, repeatedly telling her to stop talking.
Walkout and Reactions
Following his outburst, Fatima Bosch left the room, and several contestants followed her in a show of support. In the video, many participants appear standing or moving toward the exit despite the director’s warning.
Later that day, Bosch described the organiser’s conduct as disrespectful, stating that he had called her “dumb.”
Response from the Miss Universe Organisation
The Miss Universe Organisation (MUO) condemned Mr. Nawat’s behaviour, calling it “malicious.” He has since issued a public apology following the widespread backlash.
Context and Social Media Impact
The incident, live-streamed online, rapidly gained attention across social media platforms. Viewers expressed support for Bosch and applauded the contestants who joined her in leaving the event.
Author’s Summary
The Miss Universe controversy highlights contestants uniting against disrespectful treatment, prompting public outrage and an official apology from Thailand’s pageant director.