Floyd Mayweather and then Los Angeles Clippers forward Matt Barnes once engaged in a public confrontation characterized by verbal exchange rather than physical altercation. Mayweather, the highest-paid athlete at the time, initiated the incident by heckling Barnes from his court-side seats, which Barnes took exception to.
In a 2019 interview with VladTV Flashback, former NBA star Matt Barnes clarified the details of his argument with Floyd Mayweather Jr., dispelling rumors and sharing the true words exchanged between them. He also explained the trigger that ignited the heated verbal confrontation.
When asked by the host what happened between him and Mayweather, Barnes said:
He says some slick s*** to me at a Clipper game. He was a Clipper fan and then I remember one time Cleveland came in and he just flipped the script…He said ‘keep talking s***, I’mma f*** your wife’…and I said ‘go ahead because I f*** your b*****, I ain’t got to pay them.’
Matt Barnes said
Barnes then discussed their current relationship, revealing that they are now in communication and have moved past the incident, letting bygones be bygones.
Matt Barnes fired after altercation with high school student
Former NBA player Matt Barnes was involved in a controversial incident at a high school basketball game, resulting in him losing his job as an analyst for NBC Sports California. The altercation occurred during a game coached by Derek Fisher, with whom Barnes shares a complex history. This incident sparked discussions about behavior, sportsmanship, and the responsibilities of public figures.
Matt Barnes (via Open Source/X)The confrontation started after a technical foul was called on one of Barnes’ sons. Rather than addressing the officiating crew, Barnes unexpectedly directed his frustration towards a high school student managing the online broadcast, allegedly threatening him while also placing his hand on the student’s shoulder. Despite Barnes defending his actions and admitting to inappropriate behavior, NBC Sports California promptly terminated their association with him, emphasizing their commitment to upholding ethical standards and professional conduct, regardless of individual stature.
While this isn’t the first time Barnes has had trouble with people, his recent behavior with a high school student demonstrates the need to remain composed and disciplined in times of adversity and conflicts.
