Miss Universe executive Nawat Itsaragrisil issued a public apology after referring to Miss Universe Mexico Fátima Bosch as “dumb.” The incident occurred during preparations for the 2025 pageant.
The dispute erupted during the annual sash ceremony in November 2025. Itsaragrisil complained that Bosch did not participate in a photoshoot to promote Thailand, the 2025 host country.
When Bosch rose to defend herself, Itsaragrisil publicly called for security to intervene. A video of the chaotic scene quickly went viral. Bosch left the ceremony, followed by several other contestants, including Miss Universe 2024 Victoria Kjær Theilvig.
“I think the world needs to see this,” Bosch told reporters outside the venue. “We are empowered women and this platform is for our voices. Nobody can silence it. Nobody will silence me.”
Itsaragrisil, a prominent and often controversial Thai television personality, first gained recognition hosting travel documentaries. He joined Miss Thailand World in 2007 as an executive producer and director, later holding various executive roles in the pageant world.
In November 2025, Itsaragrisil held positions as President of the Miss Grand International (MGI) Organization and Vice President of Miss Universe Asia. He assumed control of the Miss Universe Thailand brand in 2025.
The public altercation, focusing on social media promotion for the host country, Thailand, happened on November 3, 2025. It was broadcast live on Facebook from Thailand during the sash ceremony. Itsaragrisil criticized certain contestants for their reluctance to “promote the host country” online.
“Be careful. You are in Thailand,” he warned. “You are in a game.”
Itsaragrisil specifically singled out Bosch for allegedly refusing to participate in a promotional photoshoot for Thailand. Bosch denied this, stating she had not followed any orders from Mexico’s pageant director to avoid social media posts about Thailand.
“No, you must listen to me first and then discuss with me,” Itsaragrisil demanded.
Bosch requested that Itsaragrisil treat her with respect. She added that his issues with the Mexican organization were not her fault.
During the exchange, Itsaragrisil allegedly suggested Bosch was a “hollow head,” an insult meaning “dumb” or “stupid,” if she followed her “national director’s orders.”
Bosch exited the ballroom in protest, accompanied by Miss Universe 2024 Kjær Theilvig and other contestants.
“Stop,” Itsaragrisil ordered. “No. Stop.” He even threatened to call security to restore order.
Bosch spoke to journalists outside the venue about her perspective. “As a country, [Thailand] has all my respect,” she stated. “I truly love Thailand. I respect all of you. I think you are amazing people, but what your director just did is not respectful.”
She continued, “[Itsaragrisil] called me ‘dumb’ because he has problems with the organization. I think that’s not fair because… I don’t mess with anyone. I just try to be kind. I try to do my best.”
The Miss Universe Mexico 2025 contestant vowed not to let Itsaragrisil’s behavior overshadow her reign. “It doesn’t matter if you have a big dream or a crown,” Bosch said. “If it takes away your dignity, you should leave.”
The Miss Universe Organization (MUO) confirmed its commitment to upholding “values of diversity, empowerment, and inclusion.” The MUO reaffirmed its dedication to working with the host community, MGI, and all local partners for the 74th pageant.
A high-level delegation, led by MUO CEO Mario Búcaro, will travel to Thailand to strengthen collaboration. All scheduled events and activities will proceed as planned, focusing on a global celebration that reflects Miss Universe’s defining values.
Miss Universe President Raúl Rocha Cantú expressed “solidarity and support” for all contestants in a video statement. “I will not allow the values of respect and dignity towards women to be violated,” Rocha stated.
“Unfortunately, Nawat has forgotten the true meaning of being a genuine host,” he added. “It means showing all delegates…that he, as a host, has the obligation to serve them, help them, and support them. And to guarantee them a unique life experience, full of kindness and courtesy.”
Kjær Theilvig, the reigning Miss Universe who left the ceremony with Bosch, told media the controversy centered on “women’s rights.” “We respect everyone, but this is not the way things should be handled,” she said. “Insulting another contestant is very disrespectful, and I would never do that. That’s why I’m putting on my coat and leaving.”
Itsaragrisil broke his silence on Instagram on November 4, 2025, acknowledging the complaints about his conduct. “If someone felt bad, if someone felt uncomfortable. If someone was affected, I apologize to everyone,” he said.
He promised to maintain a “higher level” of conduct among Miss Universe 2025 executives and delegates moving forward.