The Miss Universe 2025 pageant in Bangkok, Thailand, witnessed an unexpected yet powerful moment when Sahar Biniaz, representing Iran, appeared to walk off stage alongside Miss Mexico Fátima Bosch during the sashing ceremony on 4 November 2025.
The moment, now viral across TikTok and X, has sparked international praise for both women's calm defiance and apparent show of unity amid tense proceedings.
While neither contestant has publicly addressed the event, pageant followers have flooded social media with praise for their poise and composure, calling it one of the defining moments of this year's competition.
@pageant.liveph LATEST CHIKA! MISS MEXICO WALKED OUT DURING THE SASHING CEREMONY #missuniverse #missuniversethailand2025 #ToTheUniverse
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A Moment of Grace That Broke the Internet
Footage from the event shows Miss Universe Mexico Fátima Bosch smiling and leaving the stage mid-ceremony, followed closely by Biniaz, who seemed to place a reassuring hand on Bosch's shoulder.
The interaction — shared widely by @pageant.liveph — has been viewed millions of times, with fans calling it 'sisterhood in action.'
The #MissMexico hashtag trended globally within hours, with fans applauding both contestants for their elegance under pressure.
Neither Biniaz nor Bosch has publicly commented, but their shared composure has been celebrated as one of this year's most defining moments in the Miss Universe competition.
The Miss Universe Organisation has not yet commented on the incident.
Controversy Behind the Walkout
Reports from The Express Tribune and Newsweek suggest the incident followed comments made by Nawat Itsaragrisil, president of Miss Grand International, which some perceived as disrespectful toward Bosch during the sash presentation.
While organisers have yet to release an official statement, several contestants were reportedly unsettled by the remarks. Biniaz's decision to follow Bosch has been interpreted by many as a silent show of solidarity — although others suggest it could have been coincidental.
Pageant followers remain divided, yet most agree that the women's mutual dignity left a lasting impression on both the audience and fellow contestants.
Several contestants reportedly left the stage afterwards, though the exact context of Biniaz's movement remains unconfirmed.
@pageant.liveph BREAKING NEWS | MISS UNIVERSE 2025 What no one expected just happened in Thailand Mr. Nawat Itsaragrisil, director of Miss Grand International, publicly lashed out at Fatima Bosh and the Miss Universe Mexico organization, generating a strong controversy during the band imposition event. Facing tension, Nawat decided to withdraw from the event, while several female candidates opted to leave the ceremony in disagreement with the incident. If it were not enough, the current Miss Universe, Victoria, would have also shown her annoyance at the situation, making it clear that this was completely out of control. Social networks are exploding with reactions, and the public is demanding an official response from the organizations involved. & #MissUniverse2025 #FatimaBosh #MissUniverseMexico #BreakingNews #MissUniverseThailand
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In the viral clip, Biniaz appears to place a supportive hand on Bosch's shoulder as they walk away, a gesture fans described as 'sisterhood in action.' Neither contestant has issued a statement, leading observers to debate whether the moment was a coordinated protest or a simple misunderstanding.
Who Is Sahar Biniaz?
Born in India and raised in Canada, Sahar Biniaz, 38, is an Iranian-Canadian actress, model, and humanitarian. She first made headlines after being crowned Miss Universe Canada 2012 and returned to the global stage this year as Miss Universe Persia 2025.
A graduate of the Vancouver Film School, Biniaz has appeared in Sanctuary, Blue Mountain State, and Ambrosia. Beyond acting, she advocates for women's empowerment, using her platform to promote compassion and confidence among young women.
In a recent interview, she said: 'It's never about competition — it's about connection. Empowered women empower others.'
Her supportive gesture toward Bosch has since been seen as a tangible reflection of that philosophy in the real world.
Empowerment Beyond the Crown
As the Miss Universe 2025 competition continues, the viral clip has reignited discussions about professionalism, authenticity, and how contestants navigate challenging moments on the world stage.
Observers note a cultural shift in pageantry — from silent composure to unapologetic authenticity. Supporters from Latin America to the Middle East have rallied behind both women, celebrating their calm strength.
Whether the walkout was a conscious act of solidarity or a simple misunderstanding, the visual of two women leaving the stage together remains unforgettable — a reminder that grace and courage often speak louder than words.
