Venezuela made it once again after the victory in 1996 as Dayana Mendoza, 22, was crowned Miss Universe 2008.

Dayana received the crown from her predecessor, Riyo Mori of Japan. Dayana was being kidnapped in her hometown and she says that this ordeal made her strong and remain poised even under pressure.



USA gathered another attention as Crystle Stewart became the second Miss USA in a row to fall down during the Miss Universe pageant. She tumbled during the evening gown competition just like Miss USA 2007 Rachel Smith.

Both ladies stood up after the fall as if nothing happened.

Majority of the Final five candidates were from Latin America: Miss Mexico, Miss Dominican Republic, Miss Colombia and Miss Venezuela. Finishing the elite five was Miss Russia.

Miss Mexico finished as fourth runner up, followed by Miss Russia. Miss Dominican Republic ended up as second runner up. Miss Colombia finished second behind Mendoza.

Miss Thailand won the best national Costume and Miss El Salvador as Miss Congeniality.

Talk show host Jerry Springer and Spice girl Melanie Brown hosted the said event held in Vietnam.