Miss Universe 2025: Top controversial moments in pageant history and juiciest dethronements
Dubai: Don't let Miss Congeniality fool you — Sandra Bullock's undercover chaos is nothing compared to the real-life drama of the Miss Universe pageant. Sure, the stage is all glitz, glamour, and perfectly rehearsed speeches about world peace, but behind those dazzling smiles and diamanté-studded gowns lies a world full of plot twists.
While most beauty queens finish their reigns gracefully in stilettos, others stumble out in scandals. From crowns being snatched to reputations unraveling faster than a contestant's spray tan during a surprise thunderstorm in the Dubai desert, the pageant world is not just about beauty — it's about surviving the drama with lashes intact.
Here's the ultimate tea on the most controversial and chaotic moments in Miss Universe history — because sometimes, real life serves more twists than a pageant walk in six-inch heels ...
Oxana Fedorova – Miss Universe 2002 (Russia)
Russia's Oxana Fedorova had the brains, beauty, and charm — until she ghosted the crown. Just four months after winning, she was booted for skipping duties and allegedly prioritising law school and police training. Fedorova insists she quit on her own terms. The organisation clapped back: no ma'am, you were dethroned. Runner-up Justine Pasek of Panama got a surprise coronation, making pageant history.
Amparo Muñoz – Miss Universe 1974 (Spain)
Spain's Amparo Muñoz said 'adiós' to the crown halfway through her reign. She reportedly couldn't deal with the pageant politics and wasn't about to hop on planes for PR stunts. The MUO didn't bother naming a replacement, and Amparo marched off into a controversial acting career with zero regrets. Crown? Who needs it?
Philippines' first Miss Universe, Gloria Diaz, kept her crown but not without whispers. Gossip swirled about her allegedly breaking pageant 'conduct' rules (ahem, dating drama). But the organization shrugged it off and let her reign in peace. Turns out, the queen had more pressing matters — like becoming a movie legend.
Italy Mora – Miss Universe Panama 2024
Now this one's messy. Italy Mora got the boot just before Miss Universe 2024, and the official reason? There was no explanation — complete silence from the organiser. Mora spilled her side: she met her boyfriend at the hotel (with permission, receipts, and all), but pageant insiders freaked out. Cue rumors, drama, and screenshots. She was ousted, and Panama was left scrambling.
Magalí Benejam – Miss Universe Argentina 2024
Argentina's Magalí Benejam clearly missed the memo: what happens backstage at Miss Universe MUST NOT get aired on YouTube. In a live chat, she went full pageant rogue—calling the competition 'rigged,' shading Miss Puerto Rico's gown as the 'worst of the night,' and dragging Sheynnis Palacios' farewell walk as 'a horror.' Oh, and she allegedly claimed Denmark's winner knew she'd won days in advance, complete with extra security. Girl, that crown came with a mic, not a megaphone. The Miss Universe Organization clutched their pearls and clapped back, yanking her title for violating the values of diversity, inclusion, and basic pageant etiquette. Lesson learned? You can't throw that much glitter-coated shade and expect to keep your sash. In the world of Miss Universe, you can strut, sparkle, and slay—but speak recklessly, and it's bye-bye crown.
Why the crowns come crashing down: A crash course
Being Miss Universe isn't just about walking pretty — it's a full-time job with cameras, contracts, and code-of-conduct clauses. If a queen skips duties, causes scandal, or breaks the brand image, that tiara is snatched faster than a bouquet at a bridal toss.
Whether they stepped down, were pushed out, or set their own crown on fire, one thing's crystal clear: these queens gave us more plot twists than a Sandra Bullock undercover op in Miss Congeniality.
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