The incident unfolded during a formal gathering in Bangkok when Nawat Itsaragrisil, director of Miss Universe Thailand, publicly scolded Bosch in front of dozens of contestants for allegedly failing to share promotional content on social media. Witnesses say the exchange quickly turned tense as Bosch attempted to respond, prompting Nawat to call security and threaten disqualification for anyone who sided with her.
Video footage of the confrontation, which was live streamed, shows several contestants — many dressed in their sashes and gowns — rising in solidarity with Bosch. “If anyone wants to continue the contest, sit down. If you step out, the rest of the girls continue,” Nawat is heard shouting. Despite his warning, many contestants stood and left the room, visibly upset.
Miss Mexico later told reporters that the 60-year-old Thai executive had been “disrespectful” and called her “dumb.” Nawat denied using the insult, claiming his remarks had been misunderstood and that he meant Bosch had caused “damage.”
The Miss Universe Organisation (MUO) swiftly condemned Nawat’s conduct, calling it “malicious” and “humiliating.” In a video statement, MUO President Raul Rocha accused the Thai official of forgetting “the true meaning of what it means to be a genuine host,” and said his actions constituted “a serious abuse” by calling security to intimidate a contestant.
Rocha announced that Nawat’s participation in the competition would be “limited or eliminated entirely,” adding that the MUO was pursuing “legal actions” against him. A team of international executives has reportedly been dispatched to take over operations from local organisers.
Among those who joined the walkout was reigning Miss Universe, Victoria Kjaer Theilvig of Denmark, who denounced the incident as a violation of women’s rights. “To trash another girl is beyond disrespectful,” she said. “That’s why I’m taking my coat and walking out.”
In a later interview, Bosch said she stood by her decision to speak up: “I’m not afraid to make my voice heard. I have a purpose and things to say. We’re in the 21st century — I’m not a doll to be styled and dressed. I came here to be a voice for women and girls fighting for causes.”
Public reaction to the viral video has been fierce, with many pageant fans expressing outrage at Nawat’s behaviour and praising Bosch for her composure. Facing mounting criticism, Nawat issued a public apology: “If anyone feels bad, uncomfortable, or affected, I apologise to everyone — especially to the 75 girls who were present.”
Despite the uproar, the Miss Universe competition has continued with scheduled events in Bangkok. The grand finale is set for November 21, when the next Miss Universe will be crowned amid the fallout of one of the most dramatic pre-pageant controversies in recent years.