A scandal has arisen ahead of this year’s Miss Universe pageant.
Italy Mora has been expelled from the competition, which is due to take place this Saturday (16 November, local time).
The 19-year-old, who was to serve as Miss Panama, has even had her title officially stripped from the organisation.
READ MORE: Passenger sparks panic after ‘attempting to open emergency exit door’ on packed flight
The Miss Universe Panama organisation has not provided specific details on which rules were broken but a statement described it as a “personal error”.
The move to expel Mora reportedly came after a thorough evaluation by the disciplinary commission.
Mora, who was staying in a hotel in Mexico – where the pageant will be held – is believed to have left her room at an unapproved time to join her boyfriend, Juan Abadía, in another hotel room.
Mora has since spoken out, claiming that she’d argued with the director of Miss Universe Panama, César Anel Rodríguez, in the lead up to her departure about lack of organisation for the pageant.
As a result, Abadía, a businessman and trainer, claimed that he was in Mexico to help assist ‘sMora basic needs such as buying food and clothing, and coordinating transfers.
He was allegedly present for the heated exchange between Mora and Rodríguez, which worsened the situation.
It is thought that the argument led to Mora’s exit from the competition, as reported by Need To Know.
Being accompanied by Abadía into a room ultimately added fuel to the fire.
The beauty pageant contestant claims the personal incident did not involve any inappropriate behaviour.
An extract from the statement reads: “It is important to note that we made this decision with the utmost respect for all parties involved.
“Our number one priority remains the welfare and transparency for all of our candidates, who exemplify diversity, talent and dedication.”
A new candidate will not be sent to represent Panama at this year’s contest.
Instead, the organisation has said they will focus on finding a representative for the country in 2025.
Jam Press has reached out to Italy Mora and Miss Universe for comment.
READ MORE: Influencer in hospital after SHOCK attempted murder caused her to crash her car
