Heavyweights Clash in Thrilling Fight at Madison Square Garden

NEW YORK (AP) — Matt Rempe of the New York Rangers squared off against Ryan Reaves of the San Jose Sharks in an intense fight during the first period of an NHL game at Madison Square Garden on Thursday night. This action came shortly after the Sharks scored, putting the Rangers down by a goal just two minutes into the game.

After Reaves knocked Juuso Parssinen off the ice, Rempe challenged him, likely trying to energize his team. The fighters grappled for a moment before exchanging punches for over 20 seconds, thrilling the crowd.

As the fight unfolded, Reaves lost his helmet, followed closely by Rempe’s helmet falling off as well. The crowd buzzed as Rempe got Reaves’ jersey over his head and landed several punches before linesmen Shandor Alphonso and Matt MacPherson intervened.

Reaves received a five-minute major penalty for the altercation, while Rempe left the ice and did not return to the bench for a considerable time. As he exited, fans chanted “Rempe! Rempe!” showcasing their support.

The NHL has recently enforced regulations preventing players from removing their helmets before fights. Reaves, known for his toughness, is one of only four players in the league who fight without a visor. “Most of the guys coming in that fight have to wear visors, so if anything, I’m at a disadvantage,” he explained earlier in the day. “I miss fighting guys with no visor because I cut my hands a lot more,” he added, highlighting the shift in the game over the years.

Fighting in the NHL has significantly decreased, with incidents down 200% since the 2000-01 season.