Kaylah Walton
In a shocking development, Italy Mora, a 19-year-old contestant for Miss Universe from Panama, has been removed from the competition just days before the final event.
The Miss Universe organization has disqualified Mora due to accusations of her unauthorized entry into her boyfriend’s hotel room.
This unexpected decision has sparked debate and raised questions, leaving Panama without a representative at the event scheduled in Mexico City on November 16.
The organization stated that Mora’s disqualification followed a thorough assessment by their disciplinary board. However, the details surrounding the alleged rule breach remain unclear, prompting numerous speculations. It has been reported that Mora visited her boyfriend, Juan Abadia, without proper clearance.
Disputing the narrative of events, Mora claims her disqualification was a result of a conflict with Cesar Anel Rodriguez, Miss Universe Panama’s director. She asserts that the disagreement stemmed from frustrations over mismanagement and unmet commitments regarding the event.
Mora accused Rodriguez of inadequate support, stating that her boyfriend had to assist with costs, including a $7,000 Carolina Herrera gown and hotel expenses.
She elaborated on the difficulties she faced in Mexico, revealing her boyfriend had to foot necessary bills after Rodriguez acknowledged financial limitations. “Cesar expressed he couldn’t afford the hotel or makeup,” Mora shared, detailing how Rodriguez facilitated her boyfriend’s room access, complicating the situation further.
“There are messages where Cesar instructs: ‘You must give Italy the key to go up to the room in the early hours,’” she noted, presenting proof of the coordination.
The incident escalated when organizers found Mora and Abadia together in the hotel room. Mora clarified that Rodriguez had visited earlier but left after their altercation, which seemed to solidify the decision to disqualify her.
“They were uncertain if others had been present before, but seeing just the two of us led to assumptions,” she explained.
Support Allegations in Mora’s Case
Abadia defended Mora, highlighting his crucial role in helping her prepare for the event.
He pointed out that Italy lacked basic items such as shoes and a dress, expenses he felt compelled to cover. He also clarified that he didn’t share a hotel with her and was there because of Rodríguez‘s invitation.
Despite Mora attempting to communicate her situation to the pageant officials, the outcome was already decided. She expressed her dissatisfaction, stating that while she understood the rules, the process lacked transparency.
“I accept my wrongdoing and the resulting consequences,” she stated.
After her disqualification, the Miss Panama Organization claimed they facilitated Mora‘s travel back to Panama.
However, Mora disputed this, saying it was actually a mutual friend and Rodríguez who paid for her return. To date, Rodríguez has not publicly commented on the claims, choosing instead to focus on preparing for the next competition.
The situation not only cut short Mora‘s participation but also ignited discussions about the support and transparency provided to contestants in the Miss Universe system.
Currently, Panama is without a representative, and Mora grapples with the challenge of mending her public image post-incident.
