Miss Mexico Triumphs at Miss Universe After Courageously Confronting Host’s Bullying
Miss Mexico, Fátima Bosch Fernández, achieved a remarkable victory at the Miss Universe 2025 pageant held in Bangkok. The 25-year-old contest faced significant bullying from one of the event’s hosts, a situation that drew public attention and support.
Triumphant Victory Against Bullying
The event took place on Friday, marking the 74th iteration of the globally recognized beauty pageant. Bosch claimed the crown amid controversies sparked by a scolding from Thai national director Nawat Itsaragrisil. The incident, which unfolded during a livestreamed event with 130 contestants, highlighted the challenges contestants face regarding personal dignity and respect.
Recognizing the Finalists
- Miss Universe 2025: Fátima Bosch Fernández, Mexico
- First Runner-up: Praveenar Singh, Thailand
- Second Runner-up: Stephany Adriana Abasali Nasser, Venezuela
- Fourth Place: Ahtisa Manalo, Philippines
- Fifth Place: Olivia Yacé, Ivory Coast
During the competition, Bosch stood firm when confronted by Itsaragrisil, who accused her of not adhering to promotional guidelines. This confrontation ignited a walkout in solidarity from several contestants, including Miss Universe 2024, Victoria Kjær Theilvig from Denmark. Bosch voiced her frustrations publicly, stating, “What your director did is not respectful: he called me dumb.”
Outspoken Support and Advocacy
The incident prompted responses from various prominent figures. Raúl Rocha Cantú, president of the Miss Universe Organization, criticized Itsaragrisil’s behavior, describing it as “public aggression” and “serious abuse.”
In Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum, the country’s first female president, praised Bosch for her courageous stand, emphasizing that women should raise their voices for their rights. She referred to the outdated notion that women are more beautiful when silent, advocating for vocal empowerment.
Response from Contest Director
Following the backlash, Itsaragrisil offered apologies but his demeanor was perceived as both emotional and defiant. He addressed the contestants, suggesting the issue was resolved, despite many remaining affected by the confrontation.
Background on Fátima Bosch
Bosch’s Miss Universe biography reveals her background in fashion studies from Mexico and Italy. She is actively involved in sustainable design, using discarded materials, and has committed to various social causes, including youth health, environmental awareness, and migrant support.
Controversies and Additional Issues
This year’s Miss Universe event was marred by additional controversies, including the resignation of two judges who hinted at possible contest manipulation. These claims were dismissed by the organizers. Furthermore, Thai authorities investigated allegations of illegal casino promotions related to the pageant, further complicating the event’s reputation.
Controversies at the Miss Universe pageant are not new; similar issues arose during previous events, including criticism for the 2021 competition’s location. However, the resilience shown by contestants like Bosch continues to inspire advocacy for dignity and respect within the beauty pageant world.
