Nawat Itsaragrisil, a Thai business man and Executive Director of the Miss Universe Organization, reprimanded Miss Mexico Fátima Bosch, ahead of the 74th Miss Universe competition.

Itsaragrisil publically criticized Fátima Bosch for not taking part in several promotional activities regarding Thailand, including a sponsorship shoot. The confrontation was captured on a livestream on the Miss Universe Thailand Facebook page.

Itsaragrisil suggested Mexico’s pageant director ordered Bosch to sabotage promotional activities, stating she was being a “dumbhead” for following her organization’s instructions.

During the incident, Itsaragrisil repeatedly tells Bosch to stop talking, and states she will be disqualified.

Several Miss Universe contestants can be heard shouting at Itsaragrisil during the livestream. He threatens to disqualify those supporting Bosch. Several contestants walk out of the Miss Universe event, standing in solidarity with Miss Mexico.

After Bosch walks out of the venue, she told the press that Itsaragrisil was “not respectful” and said he had called her “dumb”.

“I think that’s not fair because I’m here, and I do everything OK. I don’t mess with anyone. I just try to be kind. I’m trying to give my best,” Bosch said.

Following intense media backlash, Itsaragrisil apologized multiple times in press conferences and Miss Universes events. He disputed claims regarding his statements, saying he never called Bosch “dumb,” and instead said “damage” regarding the event’s publicity.

“I just want to let my country know, I’m not afraid to make my voice heard. It’s here, stronger than ever. I have a purpose. I have things to say,” Bosch said.

The president of the Miss Universe Organization, Raúl Rocha Cantu, criticized Itsaragrisil actions. The Miss Universe Organization dismissed Nawat Itsaragrisil from this year’s pageant.

The Miss Universe winner will be crowned on November 21st.