Miss Universe Puerto Rico Announces Second Transgender Contestant
Miss Universe Puerto Rico has announced its second biological male contestant since 2023 — revealing on Wednesday that transgender model Gabriel Rodríguez Velázquez is among this year’s competitors vying for the crown.
Gabriel Rodríguez Velázquez — representing the town of Cidra — is the second male to compete for the crown in Miss Universe Puerto Rico, according to a report by Hola!.
Notably, Rodríguez Velázquez’s participation in Miss Universe Puerto Rico makes for the second transgender model to compete for the crown — after Daniela Arroyo González, who became the first trans contestant in 2023.
“Transgender man competing to become Miss Universe Puerto Rico,” one X user wrote, sharing a promotional video. “Gabriel Rodríguez Velázquez, who identifies as a woman, is hoping to win the women’s beauty pageant for 2026 after previously qualifying to compete in 2023.”
Transgender man competing to become Miss Universe Puerto Rico.
Gabriel Rodríguez Velázquez, who identifies as a woman, is hoping to win the women’s beauty pageant for 2026 after previously qualifying to compete in 2023. pic.twitter.com/nXfBJ0EfRY
— Oli London (@OliLondonTV) April 20, 2026
“Men replacing women in women only spaces is such a tired and played out scam. At this point is just pathetic,” one X user reacted.
Men replacing women in women only spaces is such a tired and played out scam. At this point is just pathetic.
— Tango&Cash (@flashthecash64) April 20, 2026
(Read more from “Miss Universe Puerto Rico Announces Second Transgender Contestant” HERE)
