Rob Gronkowski on Super Bowl fight: 'I'm throwing some haymakers'
New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski says he was trying to protect quarterback Tom Brady during the final minute of the Super Bowl after a shoving match ensued after New England was trying to run out the clock.
Gronkowski made an appearance on "Jimmy Kimmel Live” on Monday and detailed what happened during the fight.
"I got pushed or something, and it was the last game of the year, and I was like, 'Screw it, I'm throwing some haymakers,'" Gronkowski said.
After Patriots rookie cornerback Malcolm Butler intercepted Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson with 20 seconds remaining to seal the game, the New England offense took possession and lined up in the victory formation to take a knee.
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But Seahawks linebacker Bruce Irvin locked up with Gronkowski, leading Patriots guard Ryan Wendell to push Irvin, which escalated the fight.
Irvin, who was ejected from the game, apologized for his role in the fight saying he was also trying to protect a teammate.
Gronkowski had six catches for 68 yards and a touchdown in the 28-24 victory, says he didn’t throw any punches and hopes that NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell doesn’t fine him.
"I don't think I did. Roger, no, I did not," he said. "Roger, that wasn't me.”
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