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Sport Nation
Rioli to avoid sanctions for reported private message
SEN • May 5th, 2025 8:20 pm
Willie Rioli has reportedly threatened Bulldog Bailey Dale following a scuffle during their clash over the weekend.
According to SEN's Tom Morris, Rioli reportedly sent Dale an aggressive message to a teammate of Dale’s, stating the defender ‘should be careful about leaving his hotel’ during the side’s trip to Darwin this weekend.
The Port Adelaide forward put a series of images on his Instagram story, stating the following:
“I understand I’m their story lines, to create opinions for revenue.
“Someone once told me if you can’t take a hit, don’t swing.
“They won’t show the first punch, but they’ll show my slap on the chest.”
Port Adelaide’s statement reads as follows:
“Port Adelaide is aware of a private message sent by Willie Rioli to a Western Bulldogs player following Saturday afternoon’s game between the two clubs.
“The matter has now bene resolved privately after Willie contacted Bailey Dale from the Bulldogs.
“Port Adelaide considers the matter resolved and will not be making further comment.”
The AFL has also released a statement, further confirming that no sanctions will be dealt to Rioli.
"The AFL has today spoken to both Port Adelaide and the Western Bulldogs and while confirming it will take no further action to that undertaken by the clubs and players, it has reminded both clubs to ensure any communications remain respectful."
