Cam Newton took accountability for his role in a fight that broke out during an Atlanta youth football 7-on-7 tournament this past weekend, a scuffle which was caught on video and quickly went viral on the internet.
Newton, during an episode of his YouTube show 4th&1, implored high school players, athletes and people of influence to learn from his actions, then apologized to organizers of the tournament, players and parents for his role in the scuffle.
“I let my emotions get the best of me and it should not have been called for. Simple. And with that, I apologize to anybody affected,” Newton said, acknowledging that his decision could have led to escalating violence.
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The former NFL MVP said there was “no excuse” for his actions, which he said make him feel like he “let down” children and members of the community who look up to him.
The scuffle occurred at a WeBall Sports x DynastyU 7v7 tournament at B.E.S.T. Academy. Newton didn't throw any punches, but engaged in pushing and shoving with three individuals as the scuffle moved towards a fence line, where it was ultimately broken up by event staff and security.
It’s not clear what sparked the altercation, though Newton indicated that the situation “started with words.”
The Atlanta native, who spent 11 seasons in the NFL with the Carolina Panthers and New England Patriots, founded C1N, an organization dedicated to developing young athletes' football skills, in 2021.
