Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua recently appeared on a livestream hosted by internet personality Adin Ross. The appearance quickly turned into a major controversy.
At first, Nacua made headlines for criticizing NFL referees. He called them the worst part of the game. He suggested some officials make calls just to be seen on television. Those comments alone drew attention.
But things escalated from there.
How did the Puka Nacua controversy begin?
During the stream, Ross told Nacua to perform a specific dance if he scored a touchdown in a game. Ross showed him the moves on camera. Nacua followed along and did the dance.
The gesture involved rubbing his hands together while looking at the camera. Many viewers immediately called it offensive. The move has long been linked to an antisemitic stereotype that mocks Jewish people by implying greed.
The gesture is commonly referred to online as a “Jewish dance” or “Jewish emote.” Ross has used it repeatedly in the past. He has also been banned before for hateful conduct and slurs on streaming platforms.
Nacua later said he did not understand the meaning behind the gesture at the time.
On Thursday, Nacua released a public apology. He said he was unaware that the movement carried antisemitic meaning. He said he never intended to offend anyone.
He added that he does not support racism, bigotry, or hate toward any group of people. He apologized to anyone who was hurt by his actions.
The NFL also responded. The league released a statement strongly condemning discrimination and hateful behavior. It said antisemitism has no place in football or society. The league said it will continue to stand against hate in all forms.
The livestream itself included Nacua, Adin Ross, and another streamer named N3on. Nacua mentioned during the stream that it was originally supposed to take place at the Rams facility. That plan fell apart.
He said there was miscommunication within the team. When coaches found out, they were not happy. The team did not allow the streamers inside, especially because the Rams were on a short week.
Who is Adin Ross?
Ross is a well known online personality. He streams on platforms like Kick and Twitch. He mixes gaming content with celebrity interviews. He has hosted figures from sports, politics, and internet culture.
Ross has also faced repeated discipline online. He has been banned multiple times for hateful language. In 2023, he was permanently banned from Twitch. That ban was lifted in March 2025.
Nacua’s comments about referees also resurfaced after the stream. He said officials want attention and enjoy being on national television. He admitted he could be fined for those remarks.
As of now, it is unclear if Nacua will face punishment. The NFL has fined players before for criticizing referees and for off field behavior. But the league has not announced any discipline in this case.
The Rams could still take internal action. For now, the situation remains under watch as Nacua tries to move forward from a week filled with controversy.
