Miss Universe Fátima Bosch addresses Lupita Jones’ criticism

Fátima Bosch has responded to statements made by Lupita Jones after the current Miss Universe advised against entering beauty pageants. The 25-year-old Mexican clarified that her words were taken out of context, emphasizing that she never meant to diminish the achievements of contestants or the legacy of past winners such as Lupita Jones, Ximena Navarrete, and Andrea Meza—all Mexican women who have been crowned Miss Universe.

“I accept criticism with humility, because I believe that as human beings there are always areas where we can improve, but you also have to know when criticism is true or not,” Bosch said, after Lupita Jones spoke out in response to her earlier comments. “You can’t take other people’s opinions and make them your own, because whether you do things right or wrong, there will always be opinions about you,” she added.

What did Fátima Bosch say that upset Lupita Jones?

During an event a few days ago, the current Miss Universe was asked what advice she would give to women and girls who dream of competing in beauty pageants. She replied: “I wouldn’t advise anyone to enter a beauty pageant, honestly. I’m being sincere. The reality is that Miss Universe depends on the person wearing the crown and the purpose they give it. If you have an important project and want to give it visibility, then go for it.”

“My words were taken out of context”

In a recent meeting with the media, Bosch reiterated that her comments had been misinterpreted. “What I meant at that moment, based on the question I was asked,” she explained, “is that as a woman, you shouldn’t rely solely on a beauty pageant to give you a platform. You should pursue what truly makes you feel fulfilled.”

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She added: “What I meant was: seek out that platform, and don’t enter a beauty pageant just for being beautiful—do it for a greater purpose, something deeper. That’s what I meant. I understand that in this environment, many people tend to take things out of context. It’s part of the space we’re in, but in the end, it doesn’t bother me, because you only have control over what you say, not how others interpret it.”

She doesn’t believe Lupita Jones is envious

“She’s a lady—I say that because she’s older, and my parents taught me to be respectful. I think she’s beautiful; she was our first Miss Universe from Mexico. I don’t believe she would engage in jealousy or anything like that. I truly have nothing but respect and affection for her,” said the beauty queen from Tabasco.

© George Rose

Regarding the possibility of a joint photoshoot with the other three Mexican Miss Universe winners, Bosch said it’s something she would genuinely love to do. “I would really love for that to happen at some point.”

Setting aside the controversy, she concluded: “My respect and admiration go to all three of them. They are incredible women. They brought the crown to Mexico for a reason, and as Mexicans, we should always respect what others built before us. What I’ve achieved now, they had already achieved before. I have nothing but respect for them.”