Following the conclusion of the O’Reilly Auto Parts 300 at Texas Motor Speedway, fists flew when Brendan Gaughan approached Ross Chastain and crew members from Gaughan’s #62 team jumped in. The result was Chastain coming out he worse for the wear and a JD Motorsports crew member, Ryan Bell, being transported to a local hospital for evaluation.
Bell serves as the car chief on the JD Motorsports #0 car but was in the wrong place at the wrong time when Gaughan and Chastain began arguing. Team owner, Johnny Davis, confirmed Bell was taken to the hospital but felt that he would be okay. Bell is reported to have suffered a concussion in the past so after his visit to the infield care center, he was taken for further evaluation. Early reports that Chastain was taken to the infield care center were incorrect.
Gaughan, Chastain and one of Chastain’s crewmember were summoned to the NASCAR Xfinity hauler to speak with officials. Upon exiting Gaughan played off the altercation saying that he was getting ready for a radio show the next morning and then heading to Mexico. Asked if he had a good right hook, he replied, “I’m a lefty.”
Chastain; however, held a short press conference after his exit from the hauler and said he didn’t want to be known for fisticuffs, he wanted to be known for his talent on the track. He said it bothers him that his name will be associated with the fight rather than his on-track performance.
— Kickin the Tires —