Miss Mexico Fatima Bosch achieved the ultimate vindication after being labeled a ‘dummy’ by a pageant executive.
The beauty pageant industry is notorious for its drama, and this year, Fatima Bosch experienced a dramatic season that could have been plucked straight from a movie script.
Earlier this month, Bosch made headlines when she exited a pre-pageant ceremony following a confrontation with executive Nawat Itsaragrisil.
The incident, livestreamed on Facebook, quickly became a viral sensation.
The altercation reportedly began when Itsaragrisil criticized Bosch for not taking part in a promotional photoshoot, following orders from her team.
During the live broadcast, Itsaragrisil seemed to belittle Bosch by calling her a ‘dummy’.
Despite being ‘dismissed’, Bosch stood her ground and responded: “You are not respecting me as a woman.”
After several minutes of exchange, Itsaragrisil called for security, prompting disagreement from other contestants who could be overheard saying ‘no’.
As Bosch, 25, departed, she addressed Itsaragrisil, asserting: “As women, you need to show respect for us. I’m here representing a country and it’s not my fault that you have problems with my organization.”
Several contestants joined Bosch in leaving the room as a gesture of support.
Subsequently, amid public criticism, Itsaragrisil issued an emotional apology at a press conference.
He contested that he had not referred to Bosch as a ‘dummy’, claiming instead that he had used the word ‘damage’.
Despite his apologies, Raúl Rocha, President of the Miss Universe Organization, denounced his ‘malicious’ and ‘humiliating’ actions toward Bosch.
In the following days, it was announced that Itsaragrisil would be barred from participating in the 74th Miss Universe competition. Rocha stated, “I will not allow the values of respect and dignity towards women to be violated… Nawat, you need to stop.”
Shortly after, further controversy unfolded as two judges resigned, with one alleging that the competition was manipulated, according to the BBC.
The eagerly anticipated Miss Universe final took place in Pak Kret, Thailand, on Friday (November 21).
In a triumphant turn of events for Bosch, she claimed the title of Miss Universe.
She emerged victorious over 120 contestants for the prestigious crown, while Miss Thailand Praveener Singh, Miss Venezuela Stephany Adriana Abasali Nasser, and Miss Philippines Ahtisa Manalo were named runners-up.
Miss Universe is among the world’s leading international beauty pageants, established in 1952.
The competition draws participants from approximately 90 countries, evaluating not only their beauty and grace but also their personality and intellect.
Puerto Rico is scheduled to host the 75th Miss Universe next year.