Klaus Burkart has mysteriously stepped aside as 2015 Mr Gay World after a reign of just seven months.
Citing “personal changes” to his life, the German “milk technician” said he was no longer able to “live up to the expectations and serve the community”.
The mantle has been handed to first runner-up Emmanuel Mass Luciano (pictured), of Hong Kong.
In a letter published on Mr Gay World’s official blog, Burkart wrote:
“When I entered the 2015 Mr Gay World competition in South Africa I thought that becoming Mr Gay World was the biggest challenge of my life.
“Indeed it is very challenging and exciting winning the title, but what is more challenging is living up to the expectations, responsibilities and duties that come along with it.
“Being Mr Gay World and serving the community has filled me with pride and joy. I had the opportunity to travel to different places and meet many members and friends of the LGBTI community – their positive feedback showed me that my mission had a true meaning and that the efforts of Mr Gay World are relevant and important.
“Facing this great experience I’m very sad to announce that due to personal changes in my life I will no longer be able to live up to the expectations and serve the community to the extent that the title requires to do so.”
Burkart said it was with “great sadness” that he must hand over the title to his former competitor, Luciano.
“I know he will be a great representative for our community, who will put all his heart and
passion into his reign.”
Burkart later took to Facebook where he thanked everyone for their support but didn’t elaborate on the “personal changes” in his life.
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