Tempers ran high at a Misfits Boxing event in Dubai after American boxer Anthony Taylor allegedly hurled a water bottle at India’s Neeraj Goyat backstage moments after losing their bout. The shocking incident, caught on camera, has since gone viral across social media platforms, triggering widespread criticism and debate among boxing fans.
What exactly happened backstage?
The flashpoint came shortly after Goyat secured a comfortable unanimous decision victory over Taylor at the Misfits Boxing card. According to videos circulating online, Taylor followed Goyat backstage and attempted to offer a handshake.
Goyat, still fired up from the bout, refused the gesture and reportedly told Taylor, “You don’t even know about boxing, man.” That remark appeared to set off the American boxer.
Water bottle thrown, security steps in
Visibly annoyed, Taylor picked up a water bottle from the ground and threw it towards Goyat. The situation escalated quickly, forcing security personnel to step in and escort Taylor out of the area.
Goyat, clearly angry, charged towards Taylor before being restrained by members of his own team. In the video, one of Goyat’s team members can be heard urging him to calm down, saying, “Relax, relax, you won.”
Social media reacts strongly
The clip has spread rapidly on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and YouTube, with fans slamming Taylor’s behaviour as unsportsmanlike. Many praised Goyat for his dominant performance in the ring, while also calling for stricter action against post-fight misconduct.
Several boxing enthusiasts pointed out that while trash talk is common in crossover boxing events like Misfits, physical aggression outside the ring crosses a clear line.
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No official statement yet
As of now, there has been no official response from Misfits Boxing organisers regarding the incident. It also remains unclear whether any disciplinary action will be taken against Taylor for the backstage altercation.
Neeraj Goyat, one of India’s most recognisable professional boxers on the international stage, has not issued a formal statement either, but the video has only added to his growing visibility among global boxing audiences.
