NFL fan speaks out after shocking video of him shouting vulgar insults at female fan went viral

An NFL fan, identified as Ryan Caldwell, has issued a public apology after a viral video captured him verbally abusing a female fan during the Philadelphia Eagles’ game against the Green Bay Packers on Sunday (January 12). The incident, which unfolded at Lincoln Financial Field, has sparked widespread outrage and resulted in Caldwell losing his job and being banned from attending future Eagles games.

In the video, Caldwell, wearing an Eagles jacket, was seen heckling Ally Keller, a Packers fan, and calling her an “ugly dumb c***” multiple times while also insulting her fiancé, Alex Basara. What began as playful banter quickly escalated into a vulgar and aggressive tirade, leaving Keller visibly shaken.

Alexander and his fiance, Ally, before the game (Alexander Basara/Twitter)

Eagles and Employer Take Action

The video, which quickly spread across social media, prompted swift backlash from fans and organizations alike. The Philadelphia Eagles responded by permanently banning Caldwell from attending games. His employer, BCT Partners, a management consulting firm focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), also terminated his employment.

In a public statement, BCT Partners condemned Caldwell’s actions, stating:
“This individual’s conduct and language were vile, disgusting, unacceptable, and horrific and have no place in our workplace and society. Such conduct is not who we are and not what we stand for.”

Caldwell’s Apology

Speaking to the New York Post, Caldwell apologized for his actions but claimed the viral clip does not show the full context of the incident. He admitted that his words were unacceptable, regardless of the situation.

“While attending an NFL game last Sunday to support my beloved Philadelphia Eagles, an incident occurred that I deeply regret,” Caldwell said.
“What began as banter with two Packers fans sitting near me escalated to something more serious, and I said things that were unacceptable. In the heat of the moment, I chose unforgiving words to address one of the fans, Ms. Ally Keller.”

Ryan Caldwell was filmed hurling abuse at the couple (Alexander Basara/Twitter)

He added:
“I want to sincerely apologize to Ms. Keller for those words, and to my wife, family, and friends, my former employer and colleagues, Packer fans, Eagle fans, the Philadelphia Eagles, the City of Philadelphia, and all who were offended.”

Claims of Provocation

Caldwell also suggested that there were “two sides to every story” and hinted that he was provoked by the couple, though he did not provide specific details.
“The video clip circulating online does not reflect the full context of what transpired, and my actions were not without provocation,” he stated.
“I will live with this experience, and I am certainly paying a personal price. For those who don’t know me, this incident does not reflect my values or the respect I have for others and is not indicative of the person I am.”

Victims Deny Provocation

In contrast, Alex Basara, Keller’s fiancé, took to Twitter to refute Caldwell’s claims, stating that the abuse was entirely unprovoked. Basara maintained that the couple was merely cheering on their team when Caldwell’s tirade began.

A Lesson in Accountability

While Caldwell’s apology may soften the blow for some, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of poor behavior in public spaces. With fans, organizations, and employers unwilling to tolerate such conduct, it’s clear that accountability in the digital age is more immediate and far-reaching than ever before.