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Miss Universe contestant Italy Mora, who was set to represent Panama, was expelled from the competition amid rumors that she allegedly made an unauthorized visit to her boyfriend's hotel room, the New York Post reports.
Officials said Mora had been subjected to an “exhaustive evaluation by our disciplinary commission” due to a reported "personal error," though neglected to specify the exact reason for her dismissal from the pageant, which is scheduled to begin on Saturday (November 16) in Mexico City. Mora's dismissal came amid speculation that she joined her boyfriend, Juan Abadía, in his separate hotel room in Mexico without the permission from organizers, Jam Press reported via the New York Post.
Mora, however, claimed she was instead expelled due to an argument with the pageant boss over the event's lack of organization, claiming Abadía was present during the exchange and that he was in Mexico to help her with the needs the organization failed to provide.
"There's a lot of speculation that needs to be cleared up because it's impacting my reputation, and emotionally, it's been difficult." Mora said while joined by Abadía during an interview with HOLA! magazine.
"If I weren't with my boyfriend, I'd be struggling even more."
Mora reportedly paid for food, hotel fees and clothing, including a $7,000 Carolina Herrera dress, for the pageant, according to Abadía, a businessman and trainer. Pageant officials declined Mora's appeal to overturn their ruling and the Panamanian model said she agreed to “take responsibility for my actions and accept the consequences.”
The pageant will not have a replacement contestant representing Panama, rather will focus on finding a delegate for the 2025 competition. Miss Universe representatives also issued a statement obtained by the New York Post regarding their decision.
“It is important to note that we made this decision with the utmost respect for all parties involved,” the statement reads. “Our No. 1 priority remains the welfare and transparency for all of our candidates, who exemplify diversity, talent and dedication.”