Family Altercation Overshadows Kansas State Opener in Dublin

DUBLIN, Aug. 24, 2025 - After Kansas State’s 24–21 loss to Iowa State, a family fight broke out outside Aviva Stadium. It involved quarterback Avery Johnson’s father, Mark Johnson, and his older son. A video on social media shows two men fighting on the street. Bystanders jumped in to break up the struggle.

Kansas State, ranked No. 17, fell to No. 22 Iowa State in their overseas season opener. Johnson had a strong debut, throwing for 273 yards and two touchdowns. He also rushed for a score. But soon, an off-field incident took the spotlight away from his performance. Tim Fitzgerald of 247Sports reported that there were no arrests and no injuries from the altercation.

Social media reaction was swift. One fan joked, “Guinness is a hell of a drug.” Another said, “I’d disown my family after that. NEITHER is coming back to another game.” The confrontation spoiled what was meant to be a festive international kickoff.

As the Wildcats prepare for their next game, Johnson must focus on football. At the same time, he has to handle the fallout from his family’s public dispute in Dublin.