Man caught on video sucker punching rival hockey fan is arrested and slapped with assault charges

A man who was caught on video sucker-punching and knocking out a rival hockey fan has been arrested and is now facing assault charges, according to multiple reports.

The incident occurred after a game between the New York Rangers and the Tampa Bay Lightning at Madison Square Garden this Thursday. James Anastasio, 29, of Staten Island, was arrested on Thursday night after the incident where he’s punching a Lighting fan in the face, knocking him out cold. He has been charged with two counts of assault, two counts of disorderly conduct, and two counts of harassment.

Anastasio was arrested just hours after the incident took place. Video of the incident has since been viewed on Twitter over two million times.

According to Fox13 reporter Evan Axelbank, an eyewitness who tried to stop Anastasio from fleeing was also punched, which is likely why he was charged with two counts for each charge.  would explain the two counts for each charge Anastasio is facing. The victim who was initially punched in the video was taken to the hospital and is in stable condition.

Watch the video below:

Sky Palma

Before launching DeadState back in 2012, Sky Palma has been blogging about politics, social issues and religion for over a decade. He lives in Los Angeles and also enjoys Brazilian jiu jitsu, chess, music and art.