With and Vanessa Minnillo as hosts, the 2007 competition was noted for its high-energy production and the vibrant atmosphere of Mexico City. The Winner: Riyo Mori of Japan
For viewers hunting for the , the opening sequence remains a visual feast. The 77 contestants (a record number at the time) walked the stage in vibrant, custom-designed swimsuits, backed by a digital set that simulated a futuristic Aztec pyramid.
The audience in Mexico City was notably hostile toward Miss USA, Rachel Smith. A group of Mexican spectators booed her loudly during the preliminary events and the live broadcast due to frustrations over U.S. immigration policies. Additionally, the first-ever , Miss Jamaica Zahra Redwood, and the bold, close-shaved head of Miss Tanzania stood out as symbols of diversity and defiance. miss universe 2007 full show
The Swimsuit segment was next, and the contestants certainly made a splash in their revealing swimsuits. This segment was designed to test the contestants' comfort and confidence in their own skin, as well as their ability to showcase their physical fitness. Some of the highlights from this segment included:
The Swimsuit Competition: High Energy and Home Crowd Tension With and Vanessa Minnillo as hosts, the 2007
The Audiorio Nacional stage was lauded for its modern design, providing a spectacular backdrop for the evening's events.
After the crowning, a streaker—later identified as Juan Diego Pérez from a Mexican radio show—ran onto the stage wearing a "mankini" (the Borat-style swimsuit). Security guards tackled him as he wrapped himself in the Mexican flag. Mario Lopez, thinking quickly, shouted, "That is not part of the show!" The camera awkwardly cut to a wide shot, and the streaker was dragged off before he reached Miss Universe. This moment is often missing from edited versions, but it is present in the uncut . The audience in Mexico City was notably hostile
The pageant, held on May 28, 2007, at the Auditorio Nacional in Mexico City, remains one of the most memorable editions for its high-energy production, dramatic stage mishaps, and a historic win for Asia. Hosted by Mario Lopez and Vanessa Minnillo, the show featured 77 contestants vying for the crown. A Night of High Scores and Higher Stakes
The pageant saw some controversy, with local protesters holding a mock competition highlighting social issues, although the main event proceeded smoothly.
Watching the today is a surreal experience. It sits at a crossroads of pageant history. It was the last year before the show moved wildly in production style, and it was the first year that viral video truly impacted a contestant’s chances (Rachel Smith’s fall was watched millions of times on early YouTube).