New York Giants rookie running back Cam Skattebo recently found himself at the center of a controversy following an incident during WWE’s “Monday Night Raw” event at Madison Square Garden. Skattebo, who is currently sidelined due to a season-ending ankle injury, was involved in a shoving match with WWE stars, sparking criticism from fans and observers given the Giants’ difficult 2-9 season and his ongoing rehabilitation. In response to the backlash, Skattebo took to social media to address the situation and share his perspective.
On Tuesday, Skattebo posted a message on X (formerly Twitter), in which he expressed frustration toward those criticizing his actions. He explained that, since he is unable to play football due to his injury, he has been seeking alternative ways to find enjoyment and maintain his happiness during a challenging time. “Aye, honestly, if you don’t like that I’m having a good time while dealing with a tough time, then just go ahead and unfollow and casually move on,” Skattebo wrote. He added that he has been “doing things outside the box” to keep himself positive and encouraged others to refrain from speaking negatively about him if they have nothing nice to say. His statement reflected a desire to move past the controversy and focus on his own well-being.
The incident that led to the public reaction unfolded during Monday Night Raw when WWE star Dominik Mysterio, the son of legendary wrestler Rey Mysterio, engaged in a verbal exchange with actor and comedian Andrew Schulz. During this exchange, Mysterio taunted New Yorkers by mocking the city’s lack of recent sports championships. He directed a pointed remark at Skattebo, sarcastically asking how many years it had been since a New York team won a title and then challenging Skattebo’s ability to count: “Can you count, Cam? How many years? He don’t know. He can’t count.”
This provocation prompted Skattebo, who suffered his ankle injury in a Week 8 game against the Philadelphia Eagles, to stand up and confront Mysterio. The situation escalated further when WWE star JD McDonagh began shouting at Skattebo and other Giants players, sarcastically questioning if they were “going to play defense for the first time this season.” McDonagh then turned his attention to Skattebo, asking “What are you gonna do?” In response, Skattebo shoved McDonagh to the ground, igniting a brief scuffle involving Schulz, Giants players, and the wrestlers. Security personnel eventually intervened to break up the confrontation.
The Giants players in attendance included fellow rookie Abdul Carter, the team’s first-round draft pick, who was seen wearing a custom Giants WWE title belt on his shoulder. Skattebo’s presence at the event and his engagement in the altercation drew sharp criticism given the context of his injury and the Giants’ struggling season. Many questioned the appropriateness of his involvement in a public spectacle while he was supposed to be recovering from a serious ankle injury that ended his season prematurely.
Despite the controversy, Skattebo had a notable rookie season before his injury. Over eight games, he accumulated 617 scrimmage yards, including 410 rushing yards and 207 receiving yards, and scored seven total touchdowns. His promising performance had fans hopeful for the future before the season-ending injury curtailed his progress.
The Giants’ 2025 campaign has been challenging, with the team posting a disappointing 2-9 record, and the organization is reportedly exploring changes, including a potential head coaching search, as revealed by FOX NFL Insider Jay Glazer. The team’s struggles have added to the scrutiny faced by players like Skattebo, who are expected to contribute to a turnaround once healthy.
Skattebo’s situation highlights the difficulties athletes face when dealing with injuries and the pressures of maintaining a public image amidst ongoing team struggles. His decision to engage in off-field activities, such as attending entertainment events, reflects a common need among injured players to find ways to stay mentally and emotionally engaged. However, the public and media response underscores how such choices can sometimes lead to misunderstandings or criticism, particularly when the team’s performance is underwhelming.
As the Giants continue their season and look ahead to potential organizational changes, the focus will likely remain on how players like Skattebo recover and contribute moving forward. His social media message serves as a reminder that athletes are human beings navigating complex personal and