Raiders, Giants Await NFL Punishment Decision After In-Game Fight

NFL discipline could be coming after a sideline fight during Sunday’s game between the New York Giants and the Las Vegas Raiders.

Giants cornerback Rico Payton and Raiders defender Chigozie Anusiem were involved in a heated altercation that drew league attention.

The incident occurred on the Giants’ sideline during the game in Las Vegas. Payton shoved Anusiem into a water cooler near the bench area. Anusiem responded by tackling Payton to the ground. The two players wrestled and appeared to throw punches as teammates rushed in to break the fight.

Fan-recorded video later showed Payton appearing to stomp toward Anusiem’s helmet while he was still on the ground. Giants players quickly intervened and pulled Payton away. Officials separated both sides before the situation escalated further.

Under NFL fighting rules, both players could face fines. The standard fine for fighting is $40,686 per player. The league will review the video before making a final decision. Suspensions remain possible depending on findings.

The fight came during a lopsided 34-10 Giants win. The victory snapped a nine-game losing streak for New York. Interim coach Mike Kafka earned his first win with the team.

The loss pushed Las Vegas to 2-14 on the season. The Raiders have now lost 10 straight games. Injuries to key players like Maxx Crosby played a major role in the result. Coach Pete Carroll acknowledged the roster limitations, saying,

“That’s what we look like without those guys playing. Unfortunately, they’re that valuable to us.”

While the game had draft implications, the sideline fight became the main talking point. The NFL’s ruling on Payton and Anusiem is expected soon.

This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Dec 29, 2025, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Raiders, Giants Await NFL Punishment Decision After In-Game Fight

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