Former Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice and his wife Janay have both responded after video surfaced showing Rice punching his then-fiancee.
Rice, who is from New Rochelle, released a short statement Tuesday afternoon, saying he's "holding strong for his family." He also told ESPN, by phone, that he and his wife are in "good spirits" and they will continue to support each other.
Janay Rice posted a statement on her Instagram account, supporting her husband and blaming the media. "I woke up this morning feeling like I had a horrible nightmare. To make us relive a moment in our lives that we regret every day is a horrible thing. If your intentions were to hurt us, embarrass us, make us feel alone, take all happiness away, you've succeeded on so many levels."
TMZ posted video Monday showing the couple arguing in an elevator at the Revel Casino in Atlantic City. Rice is then seen punching her in the face. The video got Rice released by the Ravens and suspended indefinitely by the NFL.
Nike and videogame maker EA Sports have also severed ties with Rice in the wake of the video. A Baltimore pizzeria is offering fans free pizza if they bring in Rice jerseys they want to get rid of.