Mari Sousa and Eliana Amaral are among 15 finalists hoping to be crowned champion of Miss Bumbum competition next month.

However rivals of the pair have now accused them of paying members of the judging panel in exchange for the coveted title. 

Reports in Brazil claim that Ms Amaral paid a whopping £18,000 for second place in the contest. Interestingly, she also had implants in her bottom.

There are allegations that Ms Sousa parted with an even larger amount in order to be crowned champion of the competition.

"It’s no longer a secret to anyone that Miss Bumbum has been bought and already has a winner, Mari Sousa," a source said.

"I’m very sad because the result isn’t deserved, and her bottom isn’t the most beautiful."

Both the accused and the organisers of the event - which has a huge following across the South American country - have yet to comment.

The winner will receive 1,500 pounds in prize money and another 20,000 pounds in modelling contracts apart from earning thousands from endorsements.

The victor often becomes a household name in Brazil.