Miss Universe stripped of title after claims of rigged competition

The Miss Universe Organization has revoked the title of Magalí Benejam, who represented Argentina in the 2024 Miss Universe pageant, after the contestant made explosive claims alleging the competition was rigged.

Benejam, a 30-year-old model from Córdoba, Argentina, stirred controversy during a live interview with YouTuber King Lucho. In her remarks, she suggested that the final results of the prestigious beauty pageant were predetermined and hinted at widespread manipulation.

“When they announced the Top 5, I noticed the judges exchanging glances that seemed unusual,” Benejam stated, according to a translation by the Latin Times. “It felt like they were silently saying, ‘This is not what we chose.’ That’s when I realized, ‘This is fixed. It’s always been fixed.’”

Benejam, who finished in 12th place, took direct aim at the eventual winner, 21-year-old Victoria Kjær Theilvig from Denmark, and Puerto Rican contestant Jennifer Colón, who also made the Top 12. She claimed the Danish queen’s victory was suspicious, citing the heavy security detail surrounding her during the final days of the competition.

“People told me the outcome was decided 10 days before the finale,” Benejam alleged.

She also criticized Colón for being unfriendly, wearing what she described as the “worst” gown of the night, and ignoring basic pleasantries. “I asked her how she was, and she didn’t respond. Maybe she was just nervous or too focused on her element,” Benejam added.

Despite her defeat, Benejam shared a bold Instagram reel declaring she had “the best body of this Miss Universe.”

In response to the public fallout from her remarks, the Miss Universe Organization released a statement on January 2, confirming its decision to withdraw her title.

“After a thorough review of recent public comments made by Miss Magalí Benejam, and based on our core principles, we have decided to immediately revoke her title as Miss Universe Argentina,” the statement read.

The organization emphasized its commitment to values such as diversity, inclusion, and respect for all individuals, stating that participants are expected to uphold “the highest standards of personal and professional conduct.”

“This decision protects the integrity of the organization and the opportunities we provide to women around the world,” the statement concluded.

As of now, Benejam has yet to remove “Miss Universe Argentina 2024” from her Instagram bio.