Emily Flores
In an unprecedented moment that shattered beauty pageant conventions, Ignacia Fernandez thrilled audiences worldwide when she unleashed her death metal vocals during the Miss World Chile 2025 semifinals. The 27-year-old contestant has since been crowned the winner, proving that authenticity and boldness can triumph in even the most traditional settings.
The Performance That Stunned The World
On November 2, 2025, the Miss World Chile semifinals took an unexpected turn. Fernandez, representing the Las Condes district, appeared on stage in an elegant black ball gown. What happened next left judges and spectators alike in shock. Instead of a conventional talent display, Fernandez was joined by guitarist Carlos Palma to perform an original song from her progressive death metal band, Decessus.
The contrast between her refined pageant appearance and her powerful guttural vocals initially stunned the audience. Within moments, however, their surprise gave way to enthusiasm, culminating in a standing ovation.
One judge even remarked he had never witnessed anything like it in such a competition. This bold choice not only secured her a place among the top 20 contestants but also sparked conversations about breaking down stereotypes in the beauty pageant industry.
The Woman Behind The Growl
Fernandez’s journey represents a fascinating blend of seemingly contradictory passions. Born and raised in Santiago, Chile, she began her modeling career in 2013 while simultaneously nurturing her love for extreme music. In 2020, the star co-founded Decessus, where she serves as the lead vocalist alongside drummer Martin Fenix and bassist Jaime Pepe.
After her semifinal performance went viral, Fernandez took to social media to explain metal’s significance in her life. “Metal has been a fundamental part of who I am as a person and in my life: a refuge, a source of strength and purpose,” she wrote. “Being able to express it on stage at Chilevision and Miss Mundo Chile was an opportunity I deeply value.”
Her band has achieved notable success in the metal scene, opening for international acts like Insomnium and Jinjer. They’ve performed at festivals in Finland and Germany, and in September 2024, they opened for Epica in Santiago. Throughout her journey, Fernandez has remained committed to both of her passions without compromising either.
The Woman Behind The Growl
Fernandez’s journey represents a fascinating blend of seemingly contradictory passions. Born and raised in Santiago, Chile, she began her modeling career in 2013 while simultaneously nurturing her love for extreme music. In 2020, the star co-founded Decessus, where she serves as the lead vocalist alongside drummer Martin Fenix and bassist Jaime Pepe.
After her semifinal performance went viral, Fernandez took to social media to explain metal’s significance in her life. “Metal has been a fundamental part of who I am as a person and in my life: a refuge, a source of strength and purpose,” she wrote. “Being able to express it on stage at Chilevision and Miss Mundo Chile was an opportunity I deeply value.”
Her band has achieved notable success in the metal scene, opening for international acts like Insomnium and Jinjer. They’ve performed at festivals in Finland and Germany, and in September 2024, they opened for Epica in Santiago. Throughout her journey, Fernandez has remained committed to both of her passions without compromising either.
Semifinalist To Crown Bearer
On November 9, 2025, this individual’s authenticity paid off in spectacular fashion when she was crowned Miss World Chile 2025. Her daring decision to bring extreme metal to the pageant not only won her the crown but also the opportunity to represent Chile in next year’s global Miss World competition.
Following her victory, Fernandez shared her excitement on Instagram: “Couldn’t be more happy and grateful. I take on this beautiful challenge with all the energy and heart put into representing my country in the best way. I promise to give it my all, with passion, labor, and purpose.”
Her win represents more than just personal achievement; it signifies a powerful challenge to conventional pageant expectations. As she stated in interviews, “I’m not trying to fit in. I’m trying to show myself as I am.”
This philosophy has resonated with audiences globally, making her victory a meaningful moment for anyone who has felt pressured to conform to narrow stereotypes.