ATLANTA – Former MLB pitcher John Rocker has ignited a firestorm of controversy after posting a harsh and inflammatory statement about global music superstar Bad Bunny being selected to perform at the upcoming Super Bowl halftime show.
On his verified account, Rocker wrote: “Bad Bunny performing at the Super Bowl is a slap in the face to the American people. There’s no reason that such a patriotic event needs to be stained by a crossdressing singer who hardly speaks English.”
The post, which quickly went viral across social media, drew immediate backlash for its tone and language, with many fans accusing Rocker of xenophobia and disrespect. The comments reignited memories of Rocker’s troubled past — including his history of controversial remarks during his baseball career — and thrust him once again into the national spotlight for all the wrong reasons.
Within hours, thousands of users flooded the comments section, expressing outrage and disbelief. “This isn’t patriotism, it’s plain hate,” one user wrote on X (formerly Twitter). Another added, “Bad Bunny represents millions of people around the world who love football and music. If you can’t see that, you’re living in the past.”
Bad Bunny, known for breaking cultural and gender boundaries in his music and style, has not responded publicly to Rocker’s comments. However, his fans have taken to social media to defend him, celebrating the decision by the NFL to feature a Latino artist on one of the biggest stages in American entertainment.
Even sports media outlets have weighed in. ESPN commentator Rachel Torres called Rocker’s statement “tone-deaf and divisive,” adding, “The Super Bowl is not just an American event — it’s a global celebration. Bad Bunny’s inclusion reflects the diversity of modern sports culture.”
The NFL has not yet commented on Rocker’s remarks, though insiders suggest the league is standing by its decision, emphasizing its commitment to representation and inclusivity.
Meanwhile, Rocker’s post has sparked a broader debate about identity, nationalism, and who gets to represent “American culture” on the world’s stage. Some conservative commentators have defended him, claiming he’s “speaking for the silent majority,” while others have condemned his words as outdated and damaging.
The uproar marks yet another chapter in Rocker’s long history of public controversy. Known during his playing days for his explosive temper and off-field remarks, Rocker’s name has become synonymous with baseball’s most divisive personalities.
As the Super Bowl approaches, one thing is clear — Bad Bunny’s performance is already making waves long before the first note is played. And once again, John Rocker finds himself at the center of a storm entirely of his own making.
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