Bullied Mexico Pageant Contestant Triumphs by Winning Miss Universe Crown
Fátima Bosch Fernández of Mexico achieved a remarkable victory by winning the Miss Universe 2025 crown on November 21, 2025. This event took place in Nonthaburi province, Thailand, during the 74th Miss Universe pageant. Bosch, 25, overcame significant public bullying from one of the event’s hosts, marking a pivotal moment in the competition.
Controversy Erupts at Miss Universe 2025
The pageant was overshadowed by a confrontation between Bosch and Thai national director Nawat Itsaragrisil. During a sashing ceremony on November 4, 2025, Itsaragrisil criticized Bosch for allegedly failing to follow guidelines for promotional activities. When she defended herself, he called security, prompting her to walk out in protest, joined by several other contestants, including Miss Universe 2024, Victoria Kjær Theilvig from Denmark.
Support and Solidarity
Bosch firmly addressed the media after the incident, stating, “What your director did is not respectful: He called me dumb.” She emphasized the importance of dignity, saying, “If it takes away your dignity, you need to go.” Following the fallout, the president of the Miss Universe Organization, Raúl Rocha Cantú, condemned Nawat’s actions as public aggression and serious abuse. The incident drew attention from various political figures, including Claudia Sheinbaum, Mexico’s first female president, who praised Bosch’s courage in speaking out.
Bosch Triumphs and Sets New Standards
Upon being crowned, Bosch was met with cheers from the audience, who celebrated by waving Mexican flags. She expressed her hope to redefine the image of Miss Universe, saying she wants to be remembered as someone who gives their heart. She highlighted the pageant as a platform for women to have a voice.
Results of the Competition
- Winner: 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)
Bosch’s official biography notes her background in fashion design, with studies in Mexico and Italy. She actively engages in sustainability initiatives, focusing on creating eco-friendly designs and supporting various social causes, including mental health and environmental awareness.
Issues and Allegations During the Event
The 2025 Miss Universe event faced additional scrutiny. Reports indicated that two judges resigned, citing concerns about potential rigging within the competition, although these claims were denied. Thai police also investigated allegations of illegal promotion related to the event’s publicity.
Recap of Pageant Challenges
Mishaps and controversies have become somewhat routine at the Miss Universe pageant. Previous events faced criticism for their host locations or staged errors, such as a contestant falling during the evening gown segment. The 2025 competition, however, will be remembered for Bosch’s inspiring triumph amid adversity.
