Weeks After Being Called a “Dummy,” Fatima Bosch of Mexico Wins Miss Universe

In an emotional and triumphant night, Fatima Bosch outshone more than 100 contestants to claim the 74th Miss Universe crown on Friday in Bangkok. She succeeded Denmark’s Victoria Theilvig, who held the Miss Universe title the previous year.

The crowd erupted as the Mexican contestant stepped into the spotlight—an outpouring driven not only by her win but also by the dramatic events that unfolded earlier in the competition.

Bosch’s victory came after a controversy that shook the pageant world. During a live-streamed sash presentation earlier this month, Thai pageant executive Nawat Itsaragrisil confronted Bosch for missing a promotional shoot and pressured her to defend herself publicly.

In a tense exchange, Itsaragrisil called her a “dummy,” a remark that shocked viewers and fellow contestants watching the incident unfold on screen.

Bosch pushed back firmly, saying he was disrespecting her as a woman and as Mexico’s representative. Delegates standing nearby applauded her refusal to stay silent. “You are not respecting me as a woman, nor as a representative of my country,” Bosch declared.

The tension soon escalated. More than a dozen contestants—including reigning Miss Universe Victoria Theilvig—walked out in solidarity with Bosch.

Following widespread criticism, Itsaragrisil issued a public apology. He claimed his comments were misunderstood and said he had privately discussed the matter with the delegates involved.

Who Is Fatima Bosch?

At just 25 years old, Fatima Bosch has built a respected profile both within Mexico and internationally. She earned her place at the 74th Miss Universe pageant in Thailand after being crowned Miss Universe Mexico in September, where Praveenar Singh was named first runner-up.

Bosch is widely recognized in her hometown of Villahermosa, Tabasco, for her deep commitment to animal welfare. Diagnosed with dyslexia, ADHD, and hyperactivity at a young age, she has often said these challenges strengthened her resilience and shaped her character.

She studied fashion and apparel design at Universidad Iberoamericana in Mexico City before relocating to Italy. Bosch began her pageant journey in 2018 after winning the Flor de Oro title in Tabasco, setting her on the path that ultimately led her to the Miss Universe crown.