Hawaii Bowl Brawl Erupts After Rainbow Warriors’ Epic Comeback Win

A dramatic college football bowl game ended in a chaotic brawl. The Hawaii Rainbow Warriors defeated the California Golden Bears 35-31 in the Sheraton Hawai’i Bowl on Christmas Eve. The wild post-game fight overshadowed a stunning second-half comeback.

The incident occurred as time expired in Honolulu. According to Associated Press reports, Hawaii defensive back Peter Manuma appeared to shove a Cal player, igniting the melee. It was the second consecutive day a bowl game featured a sideline fight.

Fight Mars Dramatic Victory Celebration

The brawl started immediately after the final play. Hawaii players rushed the field to celebrate their win. Cal players responded to the initial shove, leading to a large scuffle near the sideline.

Video of the fight spread quickly on social media. Officials and staff worked to separate the teams. The game had already featured intense, physical play throughout the fourth quarter.

This marked Hawaii’s first bowl win since 2020. The team finished the season with a strong 9-4 record. Head coach Timmy Chang has significantly rebuilt the program in a short time.

Comeback Sets Stage for Chaotic Finish

The fight followed an incredible on-field turnaround. Hawaii trailed by 21 points in the second quarter. The Rainbow Warriors then scored 25 unanswered points in the second half.

Quarterback Luke Weaver threw the game-winning touchdown pass with only 10 seconds left. Receiver Nick Cenacle made the clutch 22-yard catch. The score completed the massive rally.

California’s season ends with a 7-6 record. The Golden Bears have already named a new head coach for next season. Oregon defensive coordinator Tosh Lupoi will take over the program.

The Hawaii Bowl brawl will be remembered as a chaotic end to a thrilling game. While the fight drew headlines, Hawaii’s remarkable comeback defined the contest.

Thought you’d like to know-

What started the Hawaii Bowl brawl?

The fight began after Hawaii defensive back Peter Manuma appeared to shove California wide receiver Quaron Adams after the final play. This prompted an immediate reaction from multiple Cal players as both teams converged on the field.

What was the final score of the game?

The Hawaii Rainbow Warriors won the game 35-31. They scored a touchdown with just 10 seconds remaining to complete a comeback from a 21-point second-quarter deficit.

How did Hawaii quarterback Luke Weaver perform?

Weaver, the backup, entered the game and led the winning drive. He connected with Nick Cenacle for the decisive 22-yard touchdown pass to secure the victory in the closing seconds.

Was this the only bowl game fight that week?

No. A sideline skirmish also occurred between Louisville and Toledo players in the Boca Raton Bowl on December 23rd, making it two consecutive days with post-game altercations.

What is next for the California football program?

California has hired Oregon defensive coordinator Tosh Lupoi as its new head coach. Lupoi will finish the College Football Playoff with Oregon before officially taking over the Golden Bears.