The organiser of the Miss Universe pageant, Nawat Itsaragrisil, has been embroiled in a major controversy after a video went viral showing him in a heated exchange with contestant Miss Mexico, Fatima Bosch.
A Viral Altercation and Accusations
In the now widely-circulated footage, Itsaragrisil appeared to reprimand Bosch for failing to post promotional content about Thailand, this year's host country, on her social media. Reporters present at the event alleged that he called her a 'dumbhead', a claim he has firmly denied.
Bosch was seen responding to the organiser by stating, 'You are not respecting me as a woman.' Following this verbal altercation, Nawat called for security, and Bosch walked out of the room.
Contestant Solidarity and Official Condemnation
In a powerful show of solidarity, other contestants joined Miss Mexico in her walkout, including the reigning Miss Universe. This collective action amplified the seriousness of the incident and turned it into an international scandal.
The pageant's president, Mexican businessman Raul Rocha, did not hold back in his criticism, describing Itsaragrisil's behaviour as 'public aggression' and a 'serious abuse'.
A Dramatic Press Conference and Apology
At a subsequent news conference, Nawat Itsaragrisil insisted he had used the word 'damage' and not 'dumbhead', urging journalists to review online footage. Despite his denial, he offered an apology, stating, 'This issue has dragged me down to this point. I understand and I apologise.'
When pressed further by journalists, his composure broke. He was seen sobbing dramatically and said, 'I am a human who can feel hurt.' He also apologised to the contestants, though his tone was questioned when he added, 'If anyone (was) affected and not comfortable, it happened, I am so sorry. It's passed. Okay? Are you happy?'
Despite the outcry and calls for his resignation, Itsaragrisil has told Sky News he cannot stand down from his position. The controversy has significantly overshadowed the Miss Universe contest, which has several events leading up to the grand final on 21 November 2025.
