Dayana Mendoza maybe Miss Universe 2008 and Miss Venezuela, but what I like best about her is – she is freaking HOT.

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This very sexy photoshoot of her for the September 09 issue of Maxim Magazine proves just that, here is some tidbits from her interview:

# What was the reaction like in Venezuela when you won?
Venezuela went 12 years not having a Miss Universe. They did, like, parades. In South America we’re big fanatics of pageants. My parents told me that when I won, cars were going through the streets honking like after a soccer match.

# And when you got home, were people still going crazy?
I saw all these Venezuelans with the little flags, and they were crying, and I was kind of crying as well. I really enjoyed how much happiness I could bring to so many people by winning. And I think we needed it in my country.

# Does a guy have to be an oil tycoon to get a date with you?
No, he doesn’t have to be a soccer player or an actor, either. He just has to be a special guy who is very genuine.

Dayana Mendoza will crown the Miss Universe 2009 winner when the pageant takes place on Sunday August 23.

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