Celebrity chef Guy Fieri found himself in hot water over the weekend after being filmed shaking hands with controversial internet personality Andrew Tate at UFC 327, sparking immediate backlash across social media platforms.
Video footage captured the Food Network star exchanging greetings with both Andrew Tate and his brother Tristan during the Saturday night event, prompting swift criticism from fans who expressed disappointment at seeing Fieri interact with the brothers. The Tates face serious criminal allegations including rape and human trafficking charges in Romania, making the handshake particularly contentious.
Fieri quickly addressed the controversy on social media platform X, stating he was "devastated" to learn about the allegations against the Tate brothers and emphasizing he had no prior knowledge of their identities or reputations.
"I was there to see the fights and when I was walking through the venue, the Tate brothers stood up and said hello and that's when the exchange happened," Fieri explained. "I did not know them or about them before that moment."
The celebrity chef made clear he doesn't support the Tates "in any way" and expressed regret over the interaction once he became aware of their background.
This incident marks the second time Fieri has faced criticism for interactions at UFC events. In 2023, he received similar backlash for appearing friendly with former President Donald Trump during UFC 290, suggesting the chef's celebrity status and UFC attendance patterns continue to place him in proximity to polarizing figures.
As the video continues circulating online, the incident highlights how seemingly casual celebrity interactions can quickly become public controversies in today's social media landscape.