Miss Universe Sash Ceremony Cancelled After Thailand Director Barred from 2025 Pageant

Miss Universe Thailand national director Nawat Itsaragrisil has been barred from all official activities related to this year’s Miss Universe competition following a viral livestream that triggered widespread outrage across the global pageant community.

During a pre-sash ceremony broadcast live on November 4, Nawat was seen publicly reprimanding several contestants in a live stream, including Miss Universe Mexico, Fátima Bosch, whom he called a “dumbhead” for allegedly following her national director’s instructions not to post promotional material about the host nation, Thailand.

The confrontation escalated quickly, with Bosch walking out of the room, followed by several contestants — effectively halting the event in front of thousands of online viewers.

Miss Universe Organization Responds

In response, Miss Universe President Raúl Rocha Cantú condemned Nawat’s behavior in a statement, calling it “malicious acts” and “a serious abuse” against Bosch. Cantú said the Thai director “humiliated and insulted” the contestant and acted out of “his constant desire to be the center of attention.”

Cantú added that as the host, Nawat had a duty to ensure contestants experienced “kindness and courtesy” while in Thailand — not public humiliation. He confirmed that Nawat’s participation has been restricted or removed entirely, and promised corporate and legal actions in response.

Global Outrage and Solidarity

The livestream incident ignited a social media storm, with fans, former contestants, and national directors calling for greater professionalism and accountability within the Miss Universe Organization.

Miss Universe Mexico released a statement in defense of Bosch, saying, “No woman, under any circumstance, deserves to be insulted or humiliated.” Reigning Miss Universe Victoria Kjær Theilvig of Denmark also voiced her support, writing, “Standing up for yourself is one of the most important acts of strength and self-respect. Enough is enough, and our voices will be heard loud and clear.”

Bosch herself later spoke out in Spanish, saying:

“I’m not a doll to be made up, styled, and have my clothes changed. I came here to be a voice for women who fight for causes — and I’m completely committed to that.”

A Shadow Over Miss Universe 2025

The controversy has cast a cloud over what was meant to be one of the most inclusive and globally diverse editions of the Miss Universe competition, hosted this year in Bangkok, Thailand, with 122 delegates participating.

Despite issuing an apology on TikTok — saying, “If anyone was not comfortable, I apologize for everyone” — Nawat’s removal underscores a growing tension in international pageantry between image and ethics.

As the Miss Universe 2025 finals approach on November 21 in Pak Kret, Thailand, all eyes are on whether the organization can uphold its message of empowerment, respect, and grace — values that many now believe were put to the ultimate test.