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NASCAR Driver’s Attempt To Break Rival’s “Fuck*ng Nose” Ends in a Chokehold As Kaulig Racing President Steps in the Middle of His Current & Former Driver

Published 06/04/2023, 9:30 AM EDT

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In the world of NASCAR, heated rivalries and intense on-track battles are not uncommon. However, there are moments when the line between competition and controversy becomes blurred, and the sport’s reputation takes a hit.

Such was the case in the recent altercation between current Kaulig Racing team driver Chandler Smith and ex-Kaulig Racing driver Jeb Burton. Following an on-track incident during the Xfinity Race, emotions ran high, leading to a physical confrontation that left fans disappointed and questioning the integrity of the sport.

The intense on-track incident sparks a post-race brawl between Kaulig Racing associates

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The incident that sparked the controversy occurred during the Pacific Office Automation 147 at Portland International Raceway. With less than 10 laps to go, Jeb Burton was in a promising position, battling inside the top-15. However, Chandler Smith, driving for Kaulig Racing, made a move that wiped Burton out. Thus, ending his chances of a strong finish.

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Understandably frustrated, Burton expressed his anger over the team’s radio. He made it clear that he was not pleased with Smith’s actions. He said, “He tried to wreck me into 1, wrecked me into 3 so he’s gonna get a broken f**king nose after this.”

Fans having access to driver radios in NASCAR continues to be the most amazing thing. It’s incredible what you get in the heat of the moment — like Jeb Burton today saying he’s going to break Chandler Smith’s nose…then trying to fight him after race.
pic.twitter.com/oFk5QqdUK0
— Colin Dunlap (@colin_dunlap) June 3, 2023

After the race concluded, Jeb Burton sought out Chandler Smith to address the incident personally. In a post-race interview with FrontStretch, Burton admitted, “I let my fists do the talking.” A physical altercation ensued between the two drivers, with Burton getting a few shots in before being intercepted by Smith’s Kaulig Racing pit crew. One of the crew members placed Burton in a headlock, temporarily diffusing the situation. However, tensions escalated once again when Burton engaged in a heated discussion with Kaulig Racing’s Chris Rice.

Following the race, @JebBurtonRacing had words for the @KauligRacing team after an on-track incident with @CSmithDrive. pic.twitter.com/ThDjkRWSD6
— NASCAR Xfinity (@NASCAR_Xfinity) June 3, 2023

The recent altercation between Burton and Smith is not an isolated incident but rather the latest chapter in an ongoing feud between the two drivers. Previously, in the Ag-Pro 300 NASCAR Xfinity race at Talladega Superspeedway, Burton emerged victorious while Smith voiced his frustrations about Burton’s racing style. In an interview, Smith remarked, “He’s not the sharpest tool in the shed.”

In response, Burton didn’t hold back, publicly criticizing Smith’s racing skills. He stated, “He raced like a complete idiot last week, and he raced like an idiot today.” Burton expressed concern over Smith’s decision-making on the track, emphasizing the need for strategic thinking. The rivalry intensified as Smith’s disappointing outing at Talladega ended with a multi-car wreck, ultimately resulting in a 25th-place finish.

Fans condemn violent post-race behavior between Xfinity drivers

In the age of social media, fans have a platform to voice their opinions on NASCAR events, and the Burton-Smith incident was no exception. Following the incident, fans took to social media to express their disappointment and frustration. One Twitter user commented, “Low class as usual,” reflecting the sentiment that such altercations tarnish the sport’s reputation. Another fan exclaimed, “Damn, NASCAR been getting crazy lately! 😯😯,” highlighting the increasingly volatile nature of recent events.

Let’em go. They’ll learn real quick who to step to or not step to. Ask that dude that went up to Austin Hill last year. Jeb runs his mouth all the time. Let’s see what he’s got.
— Kevin Crawford (@CrawfordKevin) June 4, 2023

Several fans specifically mentioned Kaulig Racing, stating, “Kaulig again. They give NASCAR a bad name” and expressed hope that the team would consider a different driver for the No. 16 car in the future. Additionally, fans were quick to point out the awkwardness of Matt Kaulig, the team owner, witnessing his current driver’s crew members engaging in physical altercations with his former driver.

Chris Rice thinks he is the man. He is cheesy
— Steve Parsels (@wahoopirate) June 4, 2023

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Matt Kaulig Just Watching His Guys Beat On His Old Driver 💀💀💀💀
— Chris M. (@ChrisM2478) June 4, 2023

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As the dust settles, it remains to be seen how this incident will impact the ongoing rivalry between Jeb Burton and Chandler Smith. NASCAR and its fans will undoubtedly continue to closely follow the developments, waiting to see if these drivers can put their differences aside or if their animosity will fuel future confrontations on and off the track.

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Written by:

Dasnoor Anand is a NASCAR writer at EssentiallySports who brings a fresh perspective to the world of motorsports. She has always had a knack for writing and a love for cars. For years, she has been a devoted follower of motorsports and is particularly intrigued by the inner workings of Formula 1 teams as well as Stock Car Auto Racing.

Edited by:

Akash Pandhare