By Peter.
In a stunning turnaround, Fatima Bosch, representing Mexico, was crowned Miss Universe 2025 on Friday night in Bangkok, Thailand, capping a pageant plagued by backstage drama, public feuds, and onstage mishaps.
The victory came after Bosch, 26, outshone finalists from the Ivory Coast, Philippines, Thailand, and Venezuela in the “big four” global beauty contest, which drew over 120 contestants. Bosch’s win marks Mexico’s second Miss Universe title, following Ximena Navarrete’s 2010 triumph.
Pre-Crown Turmoil: Walkouts, Insults, and Judge Quits
The path to the crown was anything but smooth. Earlier this month, Bosch made headlines with a high-heeled walkout from a promotional meeting, where Thai organizer Nawat Itsaragrisil publicly berated her for not posting enough social media content.
In a livestreamed clash, Nawat appeared to mock Bosch’s intelligence, calling her “dumb” and summoning security. Flanked by Miss Iraq, Bosch stormed out in her evening gown, with several contestants briefly standing in solidarity before Nawat ordered them to sit if they wished to continue.
“What your director did is not respectful: he called me dumb,” Bosch told reporters. “The world needs to see this because we are empowered women and this is a platform for our voice.”
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum praised Bosch as “an example of how we women should speak out” against aggression. Nawat later issued an apology, but the incident amplified scrutiny on the pageant’s treatment of participants.
Adding to the frenzy, two judges withdrew days before the finale:
- French composer Omar Harfouch alleged a “secret and illegitimate vote” rigged the contest, conducted by non-official panel members. The Miss Universe Organization denied this, insisting “no impromptu jury has been created.”
- Former footballer Claude Makelele cited “unforeseen personal reasons” for his exit.
Onstage Slip-Ups
The drama spilled onto the stage during Wednesday’s national costume round:
- Miss Britain Danielle Latimer tripped and fell flat while channeling Eliza Doolittle from My Fair Lady, but quickly recovered with poise.
- Miss Jamaica Gabrielle Henry suffered a more serious mishap, falling off the main stage during the evening gown segment and requiring hospitalization. Miss Universe Jamaica PR director Shannon-Dale Reid confirmed she was “resting under medical observation” with no serious injuries; no further updates were provided by Thursday.
Despite the upheavals, Bosch’s resilience shone through, turning controversy into a narrative of empowerment. As the new Miss Universe, she now embarks on a year of global advocacy, starting with her first official duties.
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