Miss Universe contestant expelled from competition after she made unauthorised visit to boyfriend's hotel room
Miss Universe contestant Italy Mora has been removed from the prestigious pageant after allegedly making an unapproved visit to her boyfriend’s hotel room. The 19-year-old was set to represent Panama in the upcoming competition, scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 16, in Mexico City, featuring 130 contestants from around the world.
However, Mora’s plans were cut short when the Miss Universe organization announced her withdrawal, as reported by local media. The pageant organizers stated that she had undergone a "thorough review by our disciplinary commission" due to the alleged “personal error,” though they did not specify the exact reason for her exit.
Rumors circulated that Mora, who was staying in a hotel in Mexico, had visited her boyfriend, Juan Abadía, in his hotel room without permission, according to Jam Press. Mora, a Panamanian contestant, responded to the allegations, claiming her departure was actually due to a heated disagreement with Miss Universe Panama Director César Anel Rodríguez.
She asserted that the argument was over the event's poor organization. Abadía, who was present during the argument, said he was in Mexico to support Mora with essentials that the organization allegedly failed to provide. These needs reportedly included food, hotel expenses, and clothing, specifically a $7,000 Carolina Herrera dress, as claimed by her boyfriend, a businessman and trainer.
The dispute ultimately led to Mora’s expulsion from the competition. “There’s a lot of speculation that needs to be addressed because it’s affecting my reputation, and it’s been emotionally challenging,” Mora said. “Without my boyfriend, I’d be struggling even more.”
She tried to persuade the pageant organizers to reverse the decision, but they declined. In the end, Mora stated she had agreed to “take responsibility for my actions and accept the consequences.”
Miss Universe representatives commented on her dismissal, emphasizing their commitment to fairness, respect, and transparency for all candidates, who embody diversity, talent, and dedication. Despite Mora’s sudden exit, no replacement contestant will represent Panama in her place.