Mexico-Uruguay Fight Gets Out of Hand

When Canada and Italy fought during a "friendly" last month, the whole thing was more notable for what didn't happen. (Namely, Raptors Andrea Bargnani and Marco Belinelli stayed out of the fray, and initial aggressor Stefano Mancinelli (miraculously) avoided punishment. The fight was pretty mild, all told.)

Not the case for their South American counterparts. Mexico and Urugay, preparing for FIBA Americas 2009, got into a scuffle Saturday. Well, at least it started as a scuffle. As you'll see after the jump, it quickly evolved into a full-fledged battle royale. (And Romel Beck is the champion, apparently!)

Let me first allay your concerns: Eduardo Najera is not with the Mexican team this summer (by decree of the Nets), and that is why there were no fatalities. Uruguay should be sending Rod Thorn its finest Grappamiel for that decision. Any matter, the brawl:



I can say with some certainty that although it looks a bit cowardly, pitching sneakers at your enemy is an effective strategy. Beck and others learned that lesson, didn't they? (And no, in case you're wondering, Beck has not received a trophy for his activity in this fracas. Yet.)

In a twist only Henry Kissinger could see coming, Uruguay and Mexico find themselves in the same group for the FIBA prelim round, and will face off Sunday in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Should be a blast.