Phoenix fines Calvin Abueva for verbal spat with Ray Parks’ girlfriend

MANILA, Philippines—Phoenix has taken the initiative to penalize its player Calvin Abueva after the forward was involved in an incident with Blackwater rookie Ray Parks’ girlfriend and actress Maika Rivera during their game on Friday.

In a statement released on Saturday, the Fuel Masters said they “have decided to deduct P20,000 from the salary” of Abueva as a “preventive measure.”

“We regret the incident that has stoked emotions among players fans,” the statement read.

“While we stand and support Calvin Abueva in his own right, we cannot deny the situation, that while there may have been provocation as per his claims, he could have exercised more prudence and patience in dealing with it moreso a female was involved.”

READ: PBA: Phoenix halts Blackwater’s perfect run in Commissioner’s Cup

Abueva reportedly defended himself and accused Rivera of being the instigator by cursing at him.

Parks claimed Abueva cursed and made lewd gestures towards Rivera late in the Fuel Masters’ 103-98 win.

“I understand he plays with antics and plays with people’s minds, but why can’t he do that to me?” a furious Parks said after the game, according to reports. “Why would he go off to the side of the court, to nobody that had nothing to do [with the game] and literally call that person a ‘b**ch’ while looking at the clock?”

“I don’t even curse. And he’s going to curse at my girl and say, ‘What now, b**ch?’ and then do this,” Parks added.

“Beyond the game, that’s disrespectful. I wouldn’t call his wife a ‘B’ word. That’s messed up. Something’s got to happen. That could be anybody. That could be somebody’s wife, the head coach’s wife, somebody.”

PBA commissioner Willie Marcial is set to summon Abueva next week.