The final countdown to the race to Miss Universe has finally begun. It is clear that there is a lot of hype surrounding this year's pagaent. Which of the 88 lovely ladies have a great chance of taking home the coveted crown?
The 63rd Annual Miss Universe Pageant -- 2014, 2015 -- will take place on Sunday night at the Florida International University in Doral-Miami. The whole world will wait with bated breath as they await the crowning of a new queen. One of the crowd favorites to win is Philippines bet, Mary Jean "MJ" Lastimosa. This 27-year old has expressed her determination "to conquer the universe". Early on, the beauty queen has proven herself to be a darling among her fellow contestants. "She's such a loving girl," said Miss Jamaica Kaci Fennel.
The Philippine bet started out strong by showing off her stellar figure in a Yamamay two-piece swimsuit. She also made the crowd gasp in awe as she wore a beautiful white mermaid gown designed by Colombian fashion designer, Alfredo Barreza. MJ was also quick to share her thoughts to her detractors on Miss Universe celebrating more than just physical appearances. "Because its not the boxed girl, the most stiffest girl will win," she said. "It's the girl who enjoyed so much. It's the girl who is willing to show her real personality. That's what I'm trying to do now." The Philippines has had four consecutive runner-up finishes since 2010. Will MJ be the one to take home the diamond crown?
MJ is set to face some tough competition in the persona of Elvira Devinamira, who is Indonesia's bet this year. This vibrant and confident woman loves to be surprised. Will that surprise include the title of Miss Universe?
Miss Dominican Republic is also another strong competitor. This beauty is both a country and a city girl. She is fluent in Italian and has visited many European countries. Will she cinch the coveted title?
Another strong bet is the ravishing Miss Columbia. This lovely lady loves to make checklists and going to the gym. She also sleeps with her eyes open. Should her fellow contestants be worried?
Yet another fierce competitor is Miss USA, Nia Sanchez. This model has also become a face character for Hong Kong Disney. Will she best the others this year?
This year's contestant will also be the first to wear a new crown. The new crown has been skilfully crafted by Diamonds International Corporation (D.I.C). They proudly claim that the new crown would "capture the elegance, poise and beauty of the titleholders".
Celebrity judges who are set to join the Miss Universe judging panel are world boxing great Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao, TV host and luxury shoe designer Kristin Cavallari, actor William Levy, "Vanderpump Rules" Lisa Vanderpump, and fashion journalist Louise Roe.
The finals of the prestigious pageant will be graced by a musical performance by Grammy nominee Gavin DeGraw. The singer will be performing "Fire" and "Finest Hour" from his latest album.
Nick Jonas of the "Jonas Brothers" fame and Prince Royce will also be performing.
The 63rd Annual Miss Universe Pageant will air tonight at 8/7c on NBC.
Who do you think will win? Leave your comments below.
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