The 74th Miss Universe pageant has been marred by controversy just days into the event, as tensions escalated during a sashing ceremony on Tuesday. The drama began when a Thai pageant director, who also serves as a Vice President of the Miss Universe Organization, publicly reprimanded Miss Mexico, Fátima Bosch, for missing a sponsored photoshoot earlier in the day. Witnesses reported that the confrontation turned hostile, with the director allegedly calling Bosch ‘dumb’ in front of other contestants and staff. The incident prompted Bosch to walk off the set, followed by several delegates in a show of solidarity, including the reigning Miss Universe. Among them was Belize’s Isabella Zabaneh, whose foundation later confirmed she was safe and remained committed to representing her country with dignity. The fallout has been significant, with at least twelve countries—including Fiji, Somalia, Kenya, and Mongolia—reportedly withdrawing from the competition. As the situation continues to unfold, questions linger about the underlying issues within the organization and the future of this year’s pageant.