NASCAR icon Denny Hamlin has revealed the reason why Michael Jordan grabbed him by the throat live on air.
NBA legend Jordan got carried away following his latest race win with 23XI Racing, the team he co-owns with Hamlin.
Watch LIVE coverage of selected 2026 NASCAR Cup Series and Xfinity Series race events. New to Kayo? Join now and get your first month for just $1.
Tyler Reddick claimed first place for Jordan in the NASCAR Cup Series race at Kansas Speedway on Sunday, with Hamlin finishing fourth.
He appeared a little deflated with the result, but that did not stop Jordan from celebrating by grabbing him by the throat – live on air.
Jordan’s behaviour left fans puzzled but Hamlin explained it was in response to the “trash talk” the pair had exchanged in the build up to the race.
“I was telling him all weekend that we were gonna win. He was very happy about all the s*** I talked to him,’ Hamlin told BroBible.
“I know it’s hard to believe but I talk a lot of trash to him.
“When it’s head-to-head he wants to see the 23XI drivers beat me because I talk that trash.”
Hamlin is able to poke fun at his co-owner because he drives for a different team – JGR.
But it was Jordan, 63, who had the last laugh.
“I mean. Look, I am racing against Denny. So, I really wanted to beat him,” said Jordan.
“Because I know we’re going to talk a lot of trash a little bit later, but it was a good race!”
Jordan and 23XI Racing are enjoying a spectacular season thanks to Reddick winning five of the first nine races in NASCAR’s top series.
His latest victory came after he stormed past Kyle Larson on the final lap, leaving his boss delighted.
“This kid is on fire. I don’t know what to say. I don’t think I can cool him down,” Jordan said.
“When you win, it’s always fun, and right now it’s fun for everybody at 23XI. Me being here and being able to see all the wins, I am so happy for the team.”
