In a dramatic turn of events, Fátima Bosch of Mexico was crowned Miss Universe 2025, despite a highly publicized fallout that saw her walk out of a pre-pageant event just two weeks earlier.
On November 4, during a live-streamed on-stage rehearsal in Bangkok, Bosch was publicly berated by pageant executive Nawat Itsaragrisil.
The exchange began when he chastised several contestants—including Bosch—for allegedly rejecting a sponsored social-media shoot. When Bosch refused his narrative, he reportedly insulted her, calling her “dumb.”
Bosch defended herself, telling him, “You are not respecting me as a woman.” According to reports, Itsaragrisil then summoned security to remove her from the room.
The walkout made headlines around the world. Critics condemned Itsaragrisil’s behavior, calling it disrespectful and demeaning. Bosch, meanwhile, addressed the media: “No one will ever make me feel small,” she said, emphasizing that she saw her role as more than just a beauty queen.
The fallout didn’t stop there. Several contestants—including Victoria Kjær Theilvig, the reigning Miss Universe—joined Bosch in a walkout, condemning the way she was treated.
Despite the controversy, Bosch returned to compete—and won.
During the final round, Bosch delivered a powerful answer when asked about the challenges facing women in 2025. She called for authenticity, courage, and collective change, resonating with the audience and judges.
Bosch’s journey to the crown has been marked by her strength on and off stage. Born in Tabasco, Mexico, she’s been open about her struggles growing up with dyslexia and ADHD, and has turned those experiences into a platform for advocacy.
She becomes the fourth Mexican woman to earn the Miss Universe title.
The controversy surrounding the walkout prompted a response from the Miss Universe Organization. A judge Omar Harfouch resigned over concerns about the judging process, citing possible bias. Meanwhile, Itsaragrisil’s behavior continues to draw criticism from pageant fans and media alike.
Miss Universe Organization President Raúl Rocha Cantú publicly defended Bosch, saying that her dignity should never have been questioned. He criticized the incident as a violation of the respect and courtesy due to all delegates. Under pressure, Itsaragrisil apologized. He acknowledged being under stress and admitted he “cannot always control” himself, calling his conduct unintentional yet regrettable.