Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua faced a storm of criticism after a controversial touchdown celebration performed on Adin Ross’ livestream. The incident drew sharp responses from the public and a prominent elected official, prompting Nacua to issue an apology.
Background
The Rams’ star receiver, Puka Nacua, had previously appeared on a livestream hosted by Adin Ross, a well‑known streamer on the Kick platform. Ross is known for courting controversy, having been banned from Twitch in 2023 for using homophobic slurs and displaying racist and anti‑Jewish messages in his chat.
Ross has also shown pornographic images during streams and promoted gambling to a young audience. In 2024, he gained national attention when he gifted former President Donald Trump a Tesla Cybertruck and a Rolex watch during a livestream interview.
The Incident
During the Tuesday livestream, Ross guided Nacua through a sequence of movements that culminated in a gesture commonly described as an antisemitic “Jewish dance.” The final pose involved Nacua looking into the camera and rubbing his hands together, a stereotypical sign of greed.
Ross later requested that Nacua repeat the celebration during the Rams’ Thursday night game against the Seattle Seahawks. Nacua confirmed he would comply with the request.
Public Reaction
The backlash intensified when Representative Eric Swalwell, a Democrat from California, posted on X. Swalwell wrote, “The Los Angeles Jewish community is on edge after the Bondi Beach massacre,” and added, “He promises an antisemitic touchdown dance for his Thursday night game. He should apologize or be dropped.”
Swalwell’s comments highlighted the broader concern that the dance could further inflame tensions in a community already on edge following a recent tragedy.
Apology
On Thursday afternoon, Nacua addressed the controversy on Instagram. He posted a statement that began, “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.”
He continued, “At the time, I had no idea this act was antisemitic in nature and perpetuated harmful stereotypes against Jewish people.” The player added, “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.”
Nacua’s apology was intended to clarify his lack of intent and to express remorse for any offense caused.
Adin Ross Profile
Adin Ross is a major streamer on the Kick platform, which has become a haven for many controversial personalities. Ross’s history of provocative content includes the 2023 Twitch ban for hateful remarks and the promotion of gambling to minors.
His livestreams have also featured pornographic material, drawing criticism from parents and watchdog groups. Ross’s high‑profile interactions, such as the gift to Donald Trump, have kept him in the national spotlight.
Context
The incident occurred against a backdrop of heightened sensitivity to antisemitic imagery. The Los Angeles Jewish community’s reaction was amplified by the recent Bondi Beach massacre, which further underscored the urgency of addressing hate symbols.
Nacua’s action, though unintentional according to his statement, intersected with a broader conversation about representation, accountability, and the influence of social media personalities on athletes.
Key Takeaways
- Puka Nacua apologized for an antisemitic touchdown dance performed on Adin Ross’ livestream.
- Representative Eric Swalwell criticized the move and called for an apology or removal.
- Adin Ross has a history of controversial content, including a 2023 Twitch ban for hateful remarks.
Closing
The situation highlights the complex relationship between athletes, social media, and public accountability. Nacua’s apology may mitigate some backlash, but the incident underscores the importance of awareness and sensitivity in celebratory gestures that can be interpreted as hateful or offensive.
The Rams organization and the NFL will likely monitor the situation closely as the team prepares for upcoming games and the broader conversation around player conduct continues to evolve.
