In a sash ceremony at Miss Universe 2025, a heated exchange between Miss Mexico, Fatima Bosch, and Thai businessman Nawat Itsaragrisil sparked controversy after a video of the confrontation surfaced online.
The incident took place on Monday, November 3, 2025, in Bangkok.
Nawat Itsaragrisil holds executive positions within both Miss Universe and Miss Universe Thailand, in addition to occupying the position of president of Miss Grand International.
Nawat reportedly called the Mexican model a “dumb head,” an expression that stands for “fool” or “airheaded”.
In the viral video, Miss Mexico can be seen as she tells Nawat, “We respect you, just as you should respect us. I’m here representing my country, and it’s not my fault you have problems with my organization.”
The executive responded, “No, you must listen to me first, then argue with me.”
Shortly after the argument, Bosch stood up and left the room while Nawat ordered, "Stop. Security.”
In consequence, several contestants, including the current Miss Universe from Denmark, Victoria Kjaer, walked out of the venue in solidarity.
According to the outlet N+, what stirred the controversy was that Nawat had questioned Fatima for not posting on social media about the host country, Thailand.
Bosch reportedly explained it was an outcome of a misunderstanding, but the situation escalated after the Thai businessman's derogatory response.
He said, “If you follow your national director’s orders, you’re a dumbhead.”
That comment led the other contestants to rally behind Miss Mexico and walk out of the ceremony.
While Fatima later spoke to the media, saying, “I think the world needs to see this, because we are empowered women and this platform is for our voices. No one can silence it. No one will silence me.”
Her closing remarks have been making rounds on the internet, and social media users are praising her courage to speak out.
She said, “It doesn’t matter if you have a big dream or a crown. If it takes away your dignity, you should walk away."
One user commented, “It takes courage to stand up against disrespect. You did it with elegance and power, Mexico love you.”
Another wrote, “Fatima, Congratulations to you because you stood up and spoke the truth. Love you from Vietnam.”
A third one commented, “Thank you for raising your voice. We are with you.”
Amid all the controversy, the Miss Universe Organization (MUO) released a statement, doubling down on its commitment to respect and safety of all the participants.
“The Miss Universe Organization reaffirms its commitment to work closely with the host community, the Miss Grand International Organization (MGI), and all local partners to ensure the success of the 74th edition of the pageant.”
Women’s empowerment has once again resounded strongly in the wake of this controversy, with users from around the world hailing the courage Bosch showed.
