Miss Universe contestant Italy Mora has been expelled from the prestigious pageant after allegedly making an unauthorized visit to her boyfriend’s hotel room.
The 19-year-old, who was set to represent Panama in the upcoming competition on Saturday, Nov. 16, in Mexico City, was one of 130 contestants from across the globe.
However, her dreams were shattered when the Miss Universe organization confirmed she would be withdrawing from the event, as reported by local media.
The pageant organizers stated that Italy Mora underwent an “exhaustive evaluation by our disciplinary commission” regarding a “personal error,” but did not provide specific details on the reason for her departure.
However, rumors began circulating that Mora, who was staying at a hotel in Mexico, had entered her boyfriend Juan Abadía’s hotel room without prior approval from the organizers, as reported by Jam Press.
Mora, however, addressed the claims, suggesting her departure was due to a heated argument with Miss Universe Panama Director César Anel Rodríguez. She stated that the dispute stemmed from frustrations over the event’s disorganization.
Abadía, who witnessed the argument, explained he had traveled to Mexico to assist Mora with needs he claimed the organization had failed to provide, such as food, hotel expenses, and clothing — including a $7,000 Carolina Herrera dress. Abadía, a businessman and trainer, made these statements during the controversy.
The fallout from the dispute ultimately led to the beauty queen’s expulsion.
“There’s a lot of speculation that needs to be addressed because it’s affecting my reputation, and emotionally, it’s been hard,” Mora said. “If it weren’t for my boyfriend, I’d be struggling even more.”
She tried to persuade the pageant organizers to reverse their decision, but they refused.
Ultimately, Mora stated she decided to “take responsibility for my actions and accept the consequences.”
Miss Universe representatives issued a statement addressing her dismissal.
“It’s important to note that this decision was made with the utmost respect for all parties involved,” they said. “Our top priority remains the welfare and transparency of all our candidates, who represent diversity, talent, and dedication.”
Despite Mora’s sudden exit, no replacement contestant will be sent to represent Panama.
