MANY were surprised after Mekayla Li of Massachusetts was stripped of her Miss Grand USA 2026 title, just days after she was crowned on Aug. 10, 2026.
The Miss Grand USA Organization announced the decision on Instagram on Aug. 19 but did not disclose the reason for the termination.
However, its statement cited contractual obligations that Li was required to fulfill as titleholder.
“Miss Grand USA announces the termination of Mekayla Li’s reign and her release from the Miss Grand USA Title and all associated duties. This decision was made in accordance with contractual policies outlined by the Miss Grand USA organization,” the statement read.
The organization also appealed for respect regarding the transition.
“We ask that all dialogue surrounding this transition remain respectful. Miss Grand USA stands firmly against bullying, harassment, defamation, degrading remarks and personal attacks of any kind.”
Speculation has since circulated that Li was previously married and divorced, which could potentially conflict with Miss Grand International’s eligibility rules regarding married women. Others have also claimed that she is involved in a civil case in the United States.
However, these claims have not been confirmed by the Miss Grand USA Organization or Li.
As of press time, Aug. 21, there has been no official decision on whether first runner-up Victoria Oluwakotanmi of Indiana will succeed Li as Miss Grand USA 2026. / TRC S
