Miss Universe 2025 Controversy: Why Contestants Staged a Walkout

While the world continues to advance in technology and innovation, we still lag behind when it comes to respecting women, their bodies, their choice and their character. While women across the world strive to bring a change and earn the recognition they deserve in a society that often fails women. One such incident of this is what unfolded at the Miss Universe 2025 in Thailand. What should have been a celebration of talent and empowerment has instead been overshadowed by controversy, disrespect, and negativity spreading across social media.

So What Went Wrong?

It all began during a livestreamed pre-pageant slashing event when several models including Miss Universe Mexico staged a walkout after the organizer of the show Nawat Itsaragrisil publicly humiliated Miss Mexico Fatima Bosch. He insulted her on the basis of not participating in promotional materials for Thailand. During the exchange Itsaragrisil reportedly said things like “if you follow orders from your national director, you’re a dumbhead” in front of other contestants. Bosch responded by pointing out she was there representing her country and demanded respect: “You are not respecting me as a woman.” The clip later surfaced on social media and people started calling him out. 

This led to several contestants walking out including the reigning Miss Universe Victoria Kjær Theilvig. After the confrontation Miss Mexico stated the walk out was because the director called her dumb, and told her to shut up, along with many other things. She further went on to say that as empowered women this platform gives us a platform for our voice. 

Miss Universe 2024 Victoria Theilvig said in her official statement “This is about women’s rights,” she said as she left the event. “This is not how things should be handled. To trash another girl is beyond disrespectful… That’s why I’m taking my coat and I’m walking out.”

In response, the Miss Universe Organization intervened, issuing a statement that emphasized the importance of dignity and respect for all participants. Miss Universe President Raúl Rocha announced that Nawat’s involvement in the 74th edition of the competition would be restricted, stating that the organization would not tolerate behavior that disrespects women.

Similarly, Indian model Rachel Gupta who won the Miss Grand International title in October 2024, who later returned the crown in May 2025 citing that the environment and the event organizers were toxic. She made serious allegations against the organisation, including body-shaming, lack of food, and poor living conditions. A recent Instagram post of Rachel Gupta’s became the talk of the town, when she posted glamorous photos in a black gown and captioned it with “Karma is a queen”.  

Amid the backlash, Nawat later issued a public apology, claiming his comments were made under stress and that he had no intention of offending anyone. He stated that I am a human, I didn’t want to do anything like that he tearfully told the press.

However, the controversy deepened as reports emerged of internal disputes between the MUO and the Thai host organization over unauthorized promotional events, including a “Special Dinner & Talk Show” that MUO claimed was conducted without approval. Additionally, Thai authorities began investigating potential violations related to promotional filming activities tied to casino branding within the host venue.

The incident has raised broader questions about professionalism, power dynamics, and participant autonomy in global beauty pageants. It has also spotlighted the tension between national directors, contestants, and local hosts, as well as the growing awareness among participants of their right to demand respectful treatment. Despite the turmoil, MUO confirmed that the Miss Universe 2025 grand finale will proceed as scheduled on November 21 in Bangkok, assuring all delegates of a safe and respectful environment. The organization continues to investigate the matter while reaffirming its commitment to upholding its core values of empowerment, respect, and integrity within the Miss Universe platform.