Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua has found himself at the centre of a media storm following a controversial appearance on a popular livestream, leading to an apology for an offensive dance and renewed criticism of NFL officiating.
Viral Dance Sparks Apology
The incident unfolded on Tuesday, December 17, 2025, when Nacua appeared on a livestream hosted by Adin Ross. During the broadcast, Ross, who is Jewish, demonstrated a touchdown celebration that involved miming spinning a football, flexing, and then hunching over while rubbing his palms together with a wide grin.
Nacua imitated the routine, stating he would perform it in a game, which drew laughter from others present. The clip spread rapidly across social media platforms, with many viewers condemning the final gesture as an antisemitic trope.
In response to the backlash, Nacua posted an apology on his Instagram account on December 19. He expressed regret "to anyone who was offended by my actions" and stated he does "not stand for any form of racism, bigotry or hate." Nacua claimed he was unaware at the time that the act perpetuated harmful stereotypes against Jewish people.
Nacua Doubles Down on Referee Criticism
The controversial dance was not the only headline-grabbing moment from the livestream. Nacua also launched into a rant against NFL officials, accusing them of making questionable calls to gain television exposure during high-profile games.
"The refs are the worst. These guys are lawyers," Nacua said. "They want to be on TV too, bro... That wasn't (pass interference), but I called it." Adin Ross offered to pay any potential NFL fines resulting from the comments.
Nacua appeared to reiterate his stance following the Rams' overtime loss to the Seattle Seahawks on Thursday, December 19. In a since-deleted social media post, he wrote, "Can you say I was wrong... Appreciate you stripes for your contribution. Lol." This was likely a reference to a pivotal and controversial play in that game where officials overturned an incomplete pass call on a two-point conversion, ruling it a lateral recovered for a touchdown by Seahawks running back Zach Charbonnet.
Coach Reaction and Family Legal Trouble
Rams head coach Sean McVay was caught off guard when asked about Nacua's critical tweet during a post-game press conference. After a reporter explained the content, McVay responded curtly, "I can't answer your questions about something that I'm not aware of."
In a separate legal matter, Nacua's brother, Samson Nacua, made headlines earlier in the week. The UFL player for the Michigan Panthers, along with Trey Rose, was arrested over the weekend and charged with taking a vehicle without the owner's consent. The vehicle allegedly belonged to Los Angeles Lakers rookie Adou Thiero.
The series of events has placed the Rams' standout receiver under intense scrutiny, blending on-field controversy with off-field incidents in a challenging week for the player and his family.
