Antisemitic Sign at Bartool Bar Ignites Dave Portnoy-Mo Khan Feud Over Free Speech

A disturbing incident at a Barstool Sports bar in Philadelphia has sparked outrage after a sign reading "f--- the Jews" was displayed, igniting a firestorm of controversy. The video of the sign went viral, drawing sharp condemnation from Barstool founder Dave Portnoy, who initially offered one of the involved individuals, Mo Khan, a trip to Auschwitz to confront the weight of such antisemitic actions. That offer, however, was quickly rescinded.

Khan, identified by Portnoy as a key figure in the incident, defended himself in a statement, calling the sign an "edgy joke" meant to provoke discussion about Israel’s actions globally. Claiming the mantle of a "citizen journalist," Khan argued he had no direct role in creating the sign but reported on it to highlight geopolitical issues. He accused Portnoy of weaponizing his massive platform to vilify him, leading to severe personal repercussions, including university suspension, a lost internship, and death threats.

Khan’s narrative paints himself as the victim, asserting that Portnoy and the Jewish community have overreacted to what he frames as free speech. He further claimed his agreement to the Auschwitz trip was made "under duress" and accused Portnoy of hypocrisy for building a brand on anti-cancel culture while attempting to "lynch" him. Khan demanded an apology and restitution, even launching a fundraiser to capitalize on the ordeal.

Portnoy fired back, labeling Khan a "flat liar" who admitted involvement during a phone call before backtracking with legal support. Portnoy noted that Khan’s own Instagram post of the sign fueled its viral spread before Barstool’s involvement. He condemned Khan’s actions as "pure hate," accusing him of exploiting Middle East tensions to justify antisemitism while shirking accountability. Portnoy expressed regret for attempting to show grace, calling Khan the "face of cowardice."

The Philadelphia police are investigating the incident, which has exposed raw tensions around free speech, accountability, and the line between provocation and hate. This clash underscores a broader societal struggle to navigate divisive rhetoric in an age of instant outrage.