Los Angeles Rams star Puka Nakua apologized Thursday after agreeing to perform an anti-Semitic touchdown celebration on air.
Nacua issued a statement saying he was unaware the celebration contained anti-Semitic gestures. The full text of his statement is as follows:
“The other day, when I appeared on a social media livestream, someone suggested that I perform a specific move as part of my next touchdown celebration. At the time, I had no idea that this behavior was inherently anti-Semitic and perpetuated harmful stereotypes against Jews.
“I deeply apologize to anyone who was offended by my actions as I do not support any form of racism, bigotry or hatred towards other groups.”
Nacua appeared on a live broadcast hosted by Adin Ross on Tuesday. During the broadcast, Rose asked Nakua to imitate a celebration, and then encouraged Nakua to perform a dance during an NFL game after Nakua scored a touchdown. Nacua agreed, saying, “Yeah, it’s easy.”
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During the celebration, Nacua spiked the ball, flexed and then made a hand gesture that referenced Jewish anti-Semitic cartoons shared on social media sites such as 4chan.
Video of Nacua’s celebration began circulating on social media, and California Congressman Eric Swalwell went on the X show to demand an apology from the Rams star.
Swalwell’s tweet reads:
“The Los Angeles Jewish community is on edge after the Bondi Beach massacre. What did this asshole @AsapPuka do? He promised to perform an anti-Semitic touchdown dance at Thursday night’s game. He should apologize or be kicked out.”
The broadcast also included Nacua blasting NFL officials, saying they would call penalties so they could be shown on television.
Both incidents could result in penalties from the NFL. Nakua will almost certainly be fined for his comments to NFL officials, as that would be consistent with the league’s usual response to these situations.
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It’s unclear whether Nacua will face punishment from the league for initially agreeing to conduct anti-Semitic celebrations during NFL games. Neither the NFL nor the Rams have commented on Nacua’s actions and subsequent apology.
Nakua is expected to play Thursday night against the Seahawks.
