Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

Panthers Take Major Heat for What They Did During Victory Parade

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Antonio Losada | Last updated Jun 23, 2025 9:24 AM ET

Sam Bennett and Matthew Tkachuk let loose during the Florida Panthers’ Stanley Cup parade, but not every fan appreciated the expletive-filled show they put on during Sunday's event.

Both stars echoed UFC fighter Conor McGregor’s famous line in speeches laced with expletives that stirred a mixed reaction on X.

“A lot of people don’t like the way we play. They call us dirty. They call us nasty. They call us bullies,” Bennett said. “So, I would like to take this time to apologize to absolutely (expletive) no one. We are the double champs. We do what the (expletive) we want.”

Tkachuk followed with his own version of McGregor's quote, saying, “I would like to apologize to absolutely (expletive) nobody because a double champ does whatever the (expletive) he wants.”

Matthew Tkachuk’s speech from the 2025 Florida Panthers Stanley Cup championship parade.#StanleyCup #TimeToHunt #FlaPanthers #NHL pic.twitter.com/pCVHz92abq
— Panthers Historian (@FlaCatsHistory) June 22, 2025

Bennett and Tkachuk's unapologetic tone and language drew sharp criticism from some fans online, who took issue with the lack of restraint they showed during such a public celebration.

“Show some class. There are kids in the crowd and you're supposed to be 'heroes' and 'role models,’” @BillHuntFreddy wrote.

“So much for winning with humility,” @greggparini posted.

“I’m sorry but this is so cringey,” @HskrsStarsBucs commented.

“The speeches by Tkachuk and Bennett are pretty classless. These guys are pro athletes with lots of kids listening and watching their every move…” @originalroyboy wrote.

“Classless display. Shame on the NHL for players on this team to act like this in public. It’s a shameful display,” @Lawrence_Sprung posted.

“Yay, if I swear it will make me a better role model,” @McCrackerface opined.

"Why are they so cringe?" @LucidBee_ said.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: