Professional boxer Benjamin Hussain has issued an apology after posting a video on Instagram that included a joke referencing domestic violence in relation to rugby league player Nathan Cleary. The incident occurred following the conclusion of the State of Origin series on Wednesday night.
Hussain’s Controversial Remarks
Hussain, a welterweight title contender, shared a clip on Instagram that referenced research indicating a rise in reported domestic violence incidents during State of Origin matches. Data from La Trobe University suggests that in New South Wales, domestic violence reports can increase by as much as 40 percent on game nights.
In the video, Hussain stated, “Boys, in Queensland, domestic violence goes up 40 per cent on Origin night – and Nathan Cleary, the chin, is single-handedly going to make it double.” He continued with a remark directed at Cleary’s supporters, saying, “Hopefully all your dogs and partners are wearing mouthguards when they go to sleep tonight. Let’s go, boys, the Blues are on.”
The video was subsequently deleted by Hussain, but not before it was captured and shared by the Sherele Moody Femicide Watch account, drawing significant public criticism.
Public Reaction and Criticism
The comments made by Hussain were met with widespread outrage from the public. Social media users expressed their dismay and disappointment:
- One commenter noted, “Thinking it is one thing, saying it’s another but sharing it on social media so proudly is really something else. Wow.”
- Another expressed, “I would say unbelievable, but sadly it’s very believable!”
- A third individual simply stated, “This is shameful.”
The sentiment indicated a strong disapproval of trivializing serious issues like domestic violence, particularly through public social media posts.
Hussain’s Apology and Defense
On Thursday, Benjamin Hussain posted an apology on his Instagram account, which also included a re-sharing of the offensive clip. In his statement, the 27-year-old boxer addressed the backlash:
“Hey guys, I made a video last night that upset a select group of people,” Hussain began. “I’d like to address the comments I made last night. Obviously, I was using dark humour there. I don’t support domestic violence, nor do I support people kicking their dogs. I just got caught up in game three, you know. I didn’t mean to upset people.”
He further elaborated on his perspective, adding, “But one thing I will say is if I told a joke and it didn’t land, I put my hand up, but make sure we save this energy for people who actually did something, not attacking someone on a platform.”
Hussain mentioned that he had received negative messages following the post and suggested that public anger should be directed towards individuals with proven convictions rather than those making jokes, even if they are in poor taste.
Benjamin Hussain’s Boxing Career
Benjamin Hussain has been competing professionally in boxing since July 2020. His record stands at 14 wins, with eight of those victories achieved by knockout. He has two professional losses, both by knockout. According to boxing statistics website Boxrec, Hussain is scheduled to compete in September for the vacant IBO International super welterweight title.
Context of Domestic Violence and Sporting Events
The research cited by Hussain, which points to an increase in domestic violence incidents during major sporting events like the State of Origin, highlights a concerning societal issue. Studies have explored the correlation between heightened emotional states during intense competitions and a rise in reported domestic abuse. While the exact causal links are complex and debated, the statistical correlation has been noted in various academic and research contexts.
The La Trobe University research specifically focused on the impact of the State of Origin series in New South Wales, identifying a significant spike in domestic violence incidents on game nights. This phenomenon has led to calls for increased awareness and support services during major sporting periods.
Conclusion
Benjamin Hussain’s apology addresses the controversy surrounding his remarks about Nathan Cleary and domestic violence. The incident underscores the sensitivity required when discussing serious social issues, even in jest, and the significant public scrutiny that accompanies such statements, especially when amplified through social media platforms. The boxer’s career is set to continue with a title fight in September, while the broader issue of domestic violence and its potential correlation with major sporting events remains a subject of concern and research.
