When news broke on May 4, 2025, about an antisemitic sign at Barstool Sansom Street in Philadelphia, Dave Portnoy, the fiery founder of Barstool Sports, didn’t hesitate to act. A viral video showed a waitress holding a sign reading “F*** the Jews” during a bottle service event, sparking outrage online. Portnoy, who is Jewish, took to X, visibly shaken, calling it an “emergency press conference.” He fired the involved staff, vowed to hold those responsible accountable, and later announced a unique approach: sending the culprits to Auschwitz for a Holocaust education trip. This incident, coupled with Portnoy’s unapologetic style, keeps him in the headlines, blending controversy with conviction. Let’s dive into how Dave Portnoy navigates this storm and other recent ventures, keeping fans and critics glued to his every move.
Dave Portnoy’s Stand Against Hate
The Philadelphia incident sent shockwaves through social media. Portnoy’s initial reaction was raw fury, stating he was “shaking” and promising to “ruin” those responsible. Within hours, he shifted gears, opting for education over destruction. He spoke with the two men who ordered the sign, calling them “young, drunk morons,” and arranged to fund their trip to Auschwitz, hoping to turn a “hideous incident” into a learning moment. This move, announced on X, drew mixed reactions—some praised his restraint, others questioned if it was enough. Temple University suspended a student involved, and Philadelphia police are investigating, but Portnoy’s personal involvement, including talks with Robert Kraft’s Foundation to Combat Antisemitism, underscores his commitment to fighting hate. His Jewish identity and vocal support for Israel, especially post-October 7, 2023, amplify the stakes.
Beyond the Bar: Dave Portnoy’s Business Hustle
Portnoy’s not just battling controversies—he’s building an empire. On May 1, 2025, he announced the “Internet Invitational,” a golf tournament set for August 12-16 at Big Cedar Lodge in Missouri. Partnering with Bob Does Sports, the invite-only event boasts a $1 million prize pool, showcasing Portnoy’s knack for blending sports and spectacle. This follows his April 13 appearance at UFC 314 in Miami, where he waved an Israel flag to taunt fighter Bryce Mitchell, a known Holocaust denier, after Mitchell’s loss. Portnoy’s bold gestures, whether in sports or social issues, keep him relevant. His Barstool Sports platform, with its podcasts, bars, and betting ventures, thrives on his larger-than-life persona.
| Recent Dave Portnoy Highlights | Details |
|---|---|
| Antisemitic Sign Response | Fired staff, sending culprits to Auschwitz for education (May 4, 2025). |
| Golf Tournament Announcement | Internet Invitational at Big Cedar Lodge, $1M prize pool (August 2025). |
| UFC 314 Appearance | Waved Israel flag to protest Bryce Mitchell’s views (April 13, 2025). |
| Ole Miss Rumor Apology | Apologized for Barstool’s role in false rumor about student (April 11, 2025). |
Dave Portnoy and the Ole Miss Controversy
In April 2025, Portnoy faced backlash for Barstool’s role in spreading a false rumor about Ole Miss freshman Mary Kate Cornett. Initially denying involvement, he later admitted fault, telling NBC News he wanted to “throw up” upon learning the truth. He apologized, engaged with Cornett’s lawyers for mediation, and promised to overhaul Barstool’s editorial standards. This rare mea culpa showed a reflective side of Portnoy, contrasting his usual bravado. Fans noted his willingness to own mistakes, even as critics argued it was too little, too late. The incident highlighted the double-edged sword of Barstool’s edgy content—massive reach but occasional missteps.
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Why Dave Portnoy Keeps Us Talking
Portnoy’s appeal lies in his authenticity. Whether raging against antisemitism, hyping a golf tournament, or apologizing for a mistake, he’s unfiltered. His X posts, like the one on May 4 vowing “consequences” for the Philly incident, rack up millions of views. He’s a polarizing figure—loved for his hustle, criticized for his brashness. Yet, his ability to pivot, like turning a hateful act into an educational opportunity, keeps audiences engaged. At 48, Portnoy shows no signs of slowing down, blending business savvy with social commentary. As he navigates Barstool’s next chapter, from bars to betting, one thing’s clear: Dave Portnoy will keep making waves, and we’ll keep watching.