Reigning Miss Universe Fatima Bosch says she has no regrets about standing up for herself during her dispute with Miss Grand International (MGI) president Nawat Itsaragrisil.
The dispute returned to the spotlight after Nawat posted on Instagram on August 22. He claimed that Bosch is facing an expedited process linked to an alleged defamation case.
Nawat said the case involves alleged defamation, false allegations and the spread of false information. He also claimed that authorities have clear evidence supporting the case.
A day later, Bosch responded on Instagram. She said she would not regret speaking out, despite the consequences that followed.
“Today, it’s my turn to tell this story; my wish is that no woman will have to live through it tomorrow,” Bosch wrote in a post originally published in Spanish.
She said women should not face intimidation for speaking up, setting boundaries or demanding respectful treatment.
“I do not regret standing up for myself that day,” Bosch wrote. She added that the dispute continues to have consequences months later.
Bosch also said she hopes other women will learn from her experience. In her view, defending personal dignity should never become a reason to live in fear.
How it started
The dispute dates back to the Miss Universe 2025 pre-pageant activities.
On November 4, 2025, Nawat confronted Bosch over her alleged failure to take part in a sponsored promotional shoot.
According to Bosch, Nawat called her “dumbhead” during the confrontation. She then left the event along with several other contestants.
Nawat disputes Bosch’s version of events. He said he used the word “damage” rather than “dumbhead”.
He also said he clarified his comments at the time. However, Nawat claimed that Bosch later made false statements about him during interviews and other public appearances.
Nawat subsequently filed a defamation complaint against the beauty queen. He cited what he described as repeated false allegations against him.
The disagreement has since developed into a wider legal dispute between the two figures.
Miss Universe Organisation shows support for Fatima
The Miss Universe Organisation has publicly backed reigning Miss Universe Fatima Bosch.
In a statement shared on Instagram, the organisation said the pageant represents more than “a stage, a crown, or a competition”.
It described Miss Universe as a platform where women can be seen, heard and use their voices with purpose.
The organisation also said women should not feel forced to remain silent when they face intimidation, humiliation or disrespect.
The statement directly addressed Bosch’s experience with Nawat.
“When Fatima Bosch raised her defense of her dignity following the treatment she experienced from Mr. Nawat Itsaragrisil, it reminded women everywhere of something fundamental: respect is not something we earn through silence. It is a right,” the organisation said.
The organisation also praised the women who supported Bosch during the original confrontation.
According to the statement, titleholders, national directors, former Miss Universe winners and other women connected with the organisation have expressed solidarity with Bosch.
The organisation ended its message by reaffirming its support for the reigning Miss Universe.
The dispute between Bosch and Nawat remains ongoing. Meanwhile, Bosch continues to defend her decision to speak publicly about her experience.
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