“Miss Universe Contestant’s Shocking Disqualification: Did a Secret Hotel Visit with a Boyfriend Lead to a Scandal?”
In a statement shared by the New York Post, Miss Universe representatives noted the decision to dismiss Mora was made “with the utmost respect for all parties involved.”
“Our No. 1 priority remains the welfare and transparency for all of our candidates, who exemplify diversity, talent and dedication,” the statement continued. The organization hasn’t provided specific details about Mora’s dismissal.
Image credits: _juan_abadia29
The organization for Miss Universe Panama stated that the candidate had been expelled “due to repeated breaches of contract” with the organization.
Though Mora reportedly attempted to overturn the ruling, organizers declined her request.
Ultimately, the young model said she agreed to “take responsibility for [her] actions and accept the consequences.” However, on social media, Mora reportedly claimed that her rights had been “violated” and that she had suffered “extortion” prior to her dismissal.
“I am NOT the first Miss Universe to be dismissed for exposing my violated rights and the extortion we faced from national and international bodies,” she wrote.
Mora claimed that Miss Universe Panama’s Director was aware that her boyfriend was staying at the hotel and even encouraged him to cover her hotel room fees
Image credits: italy.mora
The beauty pageant won’t have a new delegate representing Panama at the competition and will instead focus on finding a contestant for next year’s edition.
Scandals are not uncommon in the Miss Universe organization. In fact, they date back to 1957, when Mary Leona Gage, who was supposed to represent the United States in the competition, was disqualified after organizers discovered she was married, had two children, and had lied about being 18 when she was actually 21. Until 2023, Miss Universe contestants could neither be married nor have children.
