The recent Super Bowl may have dominated sports discussions, but a viral incident involving two former Texas Rangers players has captured significant attention. John Rocker and Patrick Mahomes Sr. were filmed engaging in a heated argument on Bourbon Street, which nearly escalated into a physical confrontation. While the cause of their disagreement remains unclear, this event has led to an unexpected outcome: both men will now face each other in an amateur boxing match at Barstool Sports' "Rough N’ Rowdy" event on April 18.
Rocker and Mahomes Sr., both former Major League pitchers, never played together during their time with the Texas Rangers. Rocker is best remembered for his tenure with the Atlanta Braves from 1998 to 2001, before being traded to Cleveland and subsequently to the Rangers in 2002. On the other hand, Mahomes Sr. signed with the Rangers in 2001 after spending two years with the New York Mets. Despite not overlapping in their careers, it appears that past rivalries between their teams may have contributed to the tension seen on Bourbon Street.
The viral video shows Mahomes Sr. visibly uninterested in interacting with Rocker when the latter approached him, seemingly attempting to initiate a handshake. Although the situation did not escalate physically, the footage quickly spread across social media platforms, sparking widespread interest. In response, Barstool Sports seized the opportunity to invite both men to participate in their upcoming boxing event, providing a platform for them to resolve their differences in a controlled environment.
"Rough N’ Rowdy" is an amateur boxing competition that Barstool Sports acquired in 2017. It features fighters aged 18 and above who pass a medical examination, competing in matches consisting of three one-minute rounds. The event has previously included celebrity participants, adding to its appeal. For Rocker, who has long faced criticism from fans due to his controversial comments and admission of steroid use during his career, this bout offers a chance to engage with Mahomes Sr. in a new context. As one of the most high-profile matches in the event's history, their encounter promises to be a highlight for attendees and viewers alike.
The upcoming boxing match between Rocker and Mahomes Sr. marks an unusual turn of events following their public altercation. By participating in "Rough N’ Rowdy," they will bring closure to the incident while also contributing to the growing popularity of this unique sporting event. Fans eagerly await the outcome of this highly anticipated matchup, which promises to be a memorable moment in amateur boxing history.