A Philadelphia Eagles fan, identified as Ryan Caldwell, has faced severe backlash for verbally abusing a female Green Bay Packers fan during an NFL playoff game.
The incident, which was captured on video and widely shared online, has led to Caldwell’s dismissal from his job at a diversity-focused consultancy firm.
Ryan Caldwell identified and fired after viral incident
Ryan Caldwell, 45, was caught on video hurling offensive language at a female Packers supporter during the Eagles’ 22-10 victory over the Packers. The video shows Caldwell referring to the woman as an “ugly, dumb c***.”
Caldwell was employed as a business analyst at BCT Partners, a New Jersey-based consultancy specializing in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).
Following an internal investigation, the company announced they had severed ties with Caldwell, stating his actions were “vile, disgusting, unacceptable, and horrific.”
Details of the confrontation caught on camera
The incident unfolded at Lincoln Financial Field as Caldwell, seated behind the Packers fan and her fiancé, began taunting the couple.
He yelled profanities and made derogatory comments throughout the game.
At one point, the woman responded calmly, telling him, “Maybe you should go back to third grade because it seems like you’re the one with the bad attitude.” Despite her composure, Caldwell escalated the verbal abuse, prompting her fiancé, Alexander Basara, to intervene.
When Basara asked Caldwell to stop using offensive language, Caldwell retorted, “You gonna do anything? Then shut the f*** up.” The abusive tirade continued, with Caldwell mocking the woman and taunting her further.
Online backlash and social media sleuthing
The video, shared by Basara on social media, quickly went viral, sparking widespread outrage.
Basara captioned the clip, “What it’s like going to Philly just trying to root for your team. Unprovoked, uncalled for.”
Internet users identified Caldwell as the individual in the video, leading to a wave of criticism against him.
Following the exposure, Caldwell deleted his social media accounts, including his LinkedIn profile.
One person said: Sometimes actions have consequences. This is a great lesson for they/them. They are lucky they also didn’t get hit in the jaw.
A second wrote: Good. It’s wonderful to see karma in action. He deserved to loose his job. It’s about time manners and respect for others returned to being the norm.
While a third commented: I’d hate to see how he acts when his team is actually losing. Eagles were winning the whole game.
Another added: I think he can safely say that he “transformed his life” – hopefully it will be a long time before he is employed again!!
Consequences for caldwell and support for the victims
BCT Partners released a statement denouncing Caldwell’s behavior and confirmed his dismissal.
The company reiterated their commitment to fostering a culture of respect and inclusivity.
Caldwell has also been permanently banned from Lincoln Financial Field. The Eagles organization apologized to the couple involved and offered the woman merchandise as a gesture of goodwill.
Fans have rallied around the couple, expressing sympathy and condemning Caldwell’s actions.
Many praised Basara for remaining calm under the circumstances. One commenter wrote, “Respect to you, Alexander. If that were my wife, I’d probably be leaving in handcuffs.”
Addressing fan behavior and fostering accountability
This incident highlights the ongoing issue of inappropriate fan behavior at sporting events.
Verbal abuse and harassment not only tarnish the game-day experience but also jeopardize the safety and well-being of fans.
Sports organizations must continue to enforce strict policies against abusive behavior. Creating a safe environment for all attendees should remain a top priority.