Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua issued an apology on Thursday for doing a dance on a livestream that has been characterized as “antisemitic.”
“When I appeared the other day on a social media livestream, it was suggested to me to perform a specific movement as part of my next touchdown celebration,” Nacua said. “At the time, I had no idea this act was antisemitic in nature and perpetuated harmful stereotypes against Jewish people. I deeply apologize to anyone who was offended by my actions as I do not stand for any form of racism, bigotry or hate of another group of people.”
The National Football League issued a statement on the matter, as well:
Earlier this week, Nacua made an appearance on a live stream with popular streamers Adin Ross and N3on. Ross told Nacua that he actually had a special dance that he wanted him to use after a touchdown. Nacua then mimicked the dance and has faced backlash in the days since.
The clip surfaced days after 15 people were killed on the first day on Hanukkah during a targeted attack on the Jewish community in Australia.
Nacua specifically drew criticism from United States congressman Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.).
Nacua also made headlines during the livestream for his criticism of NFL officials. He said that referees make calls so they can “be on TV, too.”
“The refs are the worst,” Nacua said. “You don’t think [a ref] is texting his friends in the group chat, like, ‘Yo, you guys just saw me on ‘Sunday Night Football’? That wasn’t PI, but I called it.’ … These guys are human beings, too.”
It’s been an interesting week for Nacua, as he and the Los Angeles Rams prepare to face off against the Seattle Seahawks on Thursday Night Football. His brother, Samson Nacua was arrested for allegedly stealing the SUV of Los Angeles Lakers forward Adou Thiero.
Nacua is trying to put this all behind him as he tries to help the Rams stay in first place in a big division game on Thursday night.
