Footy Star Willie Rioli Investigated Over Alleged Post-Match Threats and Social Media Slam

AFL Star Willie Riggins Under Investigation After Alleged Threatening Message to Rival Player

AFL star Willie Riggins (Port Adelaide) is under scrutiny after allegedly sending a threatening message to Western Bulldogs’ Bailey Dale following a heated on-field clash during their recent match. The incident occurred during the Bulldogs’ dominant 90-point victory over Port Adelaide in Ballarat, where Riggins was fined $1,000 for striking Dale in the chest during the third quarter.

The Bulldogs are reportedly escalating the matter to the AFL and Port Adelaide after learning of the alleged post-game message. Riggins later took to Instagram, posting a video of the on-field altercation with a cryptic caption: “If you can’t take a hit, don’t swing it… They won’t show the first punch, but they’ll show my slap on the chest.” He also accused media of bias, claiming the incident was sensationalized for “revenue.”

Riggins (left) clashes with Dale during the Bulldogs’ decisive win.

History of Controversial Social Media Activity
This isn’t Riggins’ first social media controversy. Last month, he sparked backlash for a post targeting Hawthorn player Changkuoth Jiath, which led to racial abuse directed at Riggins. The AFL Players Association condemned the harassment, with CEO Paul Marsh stating, “Racist and homophobic comments are beyond unacceptable.”

Riggins’ family history with Hawthorn adds context to his animosity. His father, Willie Sr., was briefly drafted by the club in the 1990s, and cousin Cyril Riggins (a four-time premiership Hawk) was involved in a racial discrimination case against the club. Riggins’ previous Instagram rant criticized Hawthorn’s treatment of his family, including a controversial joke made by club legend Jason Dunstall about his late father.

Riggins’ now-deleted post targeting Hawthorn.

Nova Peris Calls Out Dunstall’s Remarks
Olympian Nova Peris later condemned Dunstall for mocking Willie Sr. during a Hall of Fame speech, where he likened the elder Riggins to an “18-gallon keg with legs” and joked about his short-lived stint at the club. Peris called the remarks a “public humiliation” and a “betrayal” of the sport’s values.

Dunstall’s speech drew criticism for its tone toward Riggins’ family.

What’s Next?
The AFL is expected to review Riggins’ alleged message to Dale, with potential disciplinary action pending. Meanwhile, Riggins’ combative social media presence continues to overshadow his on-field performance, raising questions about his future in the league.

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Suggested images: 1. Riggins-Dale clash, 2. Riggins’ Instagram post, 3. Dunstall at Hawthorn event.
Image captions can be adjusted based on licensing/availability.