Mayra Matos

Matos wore a costume modeled after boxing gear during the national costume competition; the piece included a hooded robe, gloves and a championship belt bearing the Coat of arms of Puerto Rico. The outfit was known to the island's boxing tradition, which has produced more champions per capita than any other location in the world.

Matos represented Puerto Rico at Miss Universe 2009 on August 23, 2009 in Nassau, Bahamas. She was the first of the semifinalists to be called, breaking a two-year non-placement streak for Puerto Rico. She then advanced to the Top 10 and was one of the Top 5 finalists, along with Ada de la Cruz of the Dominican Republic, Rachel Finch of Australia, Stefanía Fernandez of Venezuela, and Marigona Dragusha of Kosovo. She eventually finished as 4th Runner-Up. The eventual winner was Stefanía Fernandez of Venezuela[3] This was Puerto Rico's most recent Top 5 placement until 2018 when Kiara Ortega also finished in the Top 5.

After Mayra competed in Miss Universe 2009 there were rumors that the results were backwards, meaning that Matos was the true Miss Universe. In several interviews Matos stated if the rumors were true she would not accept the crown and would let Stefanía Fernández enjoy her title.[4]