MEXICO CITY — In her first major sit-down since her history-making and highly controversial win, Miss Universe 2025, Fátima Bosch of Mexico, is breaking her silence. Facing a firestorm of allegations that her victory was predetermined by "backroom deals" and "buying the title," the 27-year-old beauty queen is fighting back, labeling the accusations a targeted "hate campaign" designed to undermine her achievement.
In an exclusive and wide-ranging interview with JuJu Chang on ABC's Nightline, Bosch addressed head-on the swirling rumors that have cast a shadow over her reign before it has even fully begun.
“Crazy” Connections: Denying the “Bought” Crown
At the center of the controversy are claims made by former Miss Universe judge Omar Harfouch, who alleged Bosch’s win was "fake." The accusations center on her father, a high-ranking executive at the Mexican state-owned oil giant Pemex, and his supposed business ties to Raúl Rocha, the current owner of the Miss Universe Organization (MUO).
Bosch vehemently denied any such link. “My father has nothing to do with the organization at all. These stories are just crazy,” she told Chang with visible frustration.
In a particularly memorable retort to the "bought title" narrative, she quipped: “If you want to buy a crown, maybe Walmart sells them. But Miss Universe? Never.”
The Walkout That Shook the World
Bosch’s path to the crown was anything but conventional. Before the final night, she became the face of a dramatic and unprecedented rebellion within the pageant. Bosch led a shocking walkout, with dozens of fellow contestants leaving the stage in protest against what they described as disrespectful treatment by then-CEO Nawat Itsaragrisil.
Reflecting on that moment, Bosch admitted she was terrified of the consequences. “I was very scared,” she confessed. “I thought speaking up would cost me the crown. But dignity is more important than any dream.”
Itsaragrisil was subsequently fired from the organization following the viral fallout from the protest.
When asked if her bold stand for contestant rights ironically paved the way for her victory, Bosch stood firm on her own merit. “I worked just as hard as every other contestant,” she said. “I feel I made history. And if that’s the case, then why not?”
“No Way”: Shutting Down Resignation Rumors
In the wake of the intense scrutiny, rumors began to circulate that Bosch was considering stepping down and returning the title. She flatly rejected this idea.
“No way,” she declared. “I’m not here looking for fame, looking for acting roles, or looking for a husband. I am here because God placed a mission in my heart: to serve and help others.”
The Controversy Continues
Despite Bosch’s strong defense, the saga is far from over. Former judge Omar Harfouch has doubled down on his claims, alleging that the Top 30 list was "pre-selected before the judges even voted." He also accused Bosch’s family of attempting to improperly influence him—an accusation the Miss Universe Organization has categorically denied.
In a statement, MUO affirmed that all judging processes “strictly adhered to transparent procedures and oversight.”
For her part, Fátima Bosch remains unwavering. She maintains she is the rightful winner, a champion for dignity, and has absolutely no intention of relinquishing a crown she believes was granted to her for a higher purpose.