Michael Jordan grabbed Denny Hamlin by the throat after Tyler Reddick’s fifth win, sparking a viral debate about his unusual celebration.
Michael Jordan grabbed his partner by the neck in celebration after Tyler Reddick notched his fifth win of the 2026 NASCAR season on Sunday at Kansas Speedway, and the NBA star is once again going viral for his antics.
The moment between Jordan and Denny Hamlin exploded, with fans questioning the intensity of the move and Hamlin’s apparently unimpressed reaction causing chaos online.
Reddick sprinted down the back track on the final lap and was alongside Kyle Larson heading into the final turn.
Jordan pumped his fist in the pits as the checkered flag waved, with the No. 45 driver narrowly ahead.
As Hamlin climbed out of the car, looking frustrated after finishing fourth, Jordan rushed over, put his hands around Hamlin’s throat in a choking position, and kissed his head.
Hamlin’s expression told the whole story. He looked emotionless, completely unimpressed by his partner’s celebration.
Social media erupted with questions about what had just happened.
Michael Jordan violated #####
— RoadRunnaRichie🛣💰🖤 (@1YungRichieRich) April 20, 2026
Jordan explained his mentality after the game, saying: “I mean. Look, I’m playing against Danny. So, I really want to beat him. Because I know we’re going to talk a lot of trash later, but it was a good game.”
The review shows the competitive dynamic between the two owners competing against each other on the track.
Jordan also couldn’t hide his excitement at Redick’s performance.
This isn’t the first time Jordan has gone viral this season.
Back in February at the Daytona 500, he was photographed patting Reddick’s 6-year-old son, Beau, on the butt, sparking an online debate.
Some viewers questioned his actions, while others defended him, suggesting he was trying to clear ice that had fallen into a child’s clothes during the wild celebrations.
Redick addressed the situation on Stephen A. Smith’s Sirius
