An unexpected moment occurred during the Miss Grand International beauty pageant in Bangkok, Thailand, last weekend. A contestant from Panama misheard the announcer, leading to an awkward situation that drew attention away from a contestant from Paraguay.

The incident took place on Saturday as announcer Matthew Deane was announcing the 22 finalists. He called out, "Next in is Miss Grand Paraguay," but the camera mistakenly focused on Canadian contestant Layanna Robinson. Robinson gasped and looked around as Panamanian contestant Isamar Herrera confidently stepped forward, believing she was the one being called.

After a few moments of confusion, Deane clarified, "I beg your pardon. I announced Miss Grand Paraguay," as the camera shifted to Cecilia Romero, who began her walk down the runway, passing Herrera on her way back. Deane noted, "There is a lot of noise in this hall packed with fans from all over the world."

Viewers on TikTok reacted to the mix-up, with some suggesting that Robinson initially thought she was the one being called. Comments included, "Is it me or did the Canadian woman think it was her?" and "At least the one from Canada waited before going through the pain."

Neither Herrera nor Robinson was called again as the pageant continued. Romero ultimately finished outside the Top 5. After the event, Herrera commented on the situation, saying, "It was a mistake and this is a competition. You have to know how to lose and recognize the triumph of others."

The crown was ultimately awarded to Emma Tiglao from the Philippines, marking the second consecutive year a contestant from the Philippines has won, following Christine Juliane Opiaza in 2024.

The pageant continues to draw attention for its international representation and the unexpected moments that can arise during live events.