Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua is currently involved in a paternity confirmation case initiated by his longtime girlfriend, Hallie Aiono. Aiono seeks legal acknowledgment that Nacua is the father of her unborn child, full physical custody once the baby is born, and joint legal custody, which includes shared decision-making over education, healthcare, and coverage of pregnancy-related expenses and legal fees.
On a recent episode of The Pivot Podcast, former Miami Dolphins linebacker Channing Crowder, who played from 2005 to 2010, publicly criticized Hallie Aiono in relation to the unfolding paternity dispute.
Channing Crowder Questions Legitimacy of Paternity Claims
Crowder implied that Puka Nacua was fortunate to avoid being legally bound to a child who might not be his. He suggested that Aiono orchestrated the situation to provide Nacua a way out.
“Congratulations, brother. You got out the spider’s web before it stung your ass,” the ex-NFL star said. “She helped him out with this… You don’t even know who was skating in you and when you got skated in.”
Crowder further highlighted Nacua’s Polynesian heritage, stressing the cultural emphasis on family, and speculated that if Nacua truly believed the child was his, he might have married Aiono instead of filing for paternity confirmation.
“Polynesian is real family-oriented. So if he thought, “This is my baby,” he might have married her. He might have done some dumb stuff. She gave him a quick out. She helped him out,” he added.
He concluded that the situation potentially saved Nacua from years of child support obligations.
“This was great for him. Think about it. 18 years. If he had paid for this baby and did all this—18 years. 18 years,” he said.
To date, Nacua has not issued any public remarks regarding the case.
Mother’s Day Announcement Precedes Legal Action
On May 12, 2025, Hallie Aiono made an emotional announcement on Instagram, revealing she and Nacua were expecting their first child, a boy. Her post included intimate photos and a touching message discussing the surprise and wonder of the pregnancy.
“You were something we always dreamt of, but I have never been so afraid. I wasn’t planning for this now, but I know your timing is divine… I can’t wait to love you forever, my sweet boy.”
Shortly after, on June 16, Aiono officially filed the paternity petition in Los Angeles County, setting the legal process in motion.
Ryan Clark Also Criticizes Hallie Aiono
Following Crowder’s remarks, Ryan Clark, former Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back and co-host on The Pivot Podcast, targeted Hallie Aiono for her role in the controversy. Clark questioned her faithfulness and intentions.
“If you were in it for the money, you had one job,” Clark said. “Y’all were together all over the NFL sites… The one job you had was to not have sex with somebody else… and you couldn’t wait.”
He concluded the segment with a blunt statement expressing doubt about the child’s paternity.
“I pray that’s not your baby.”
The History Behind Puka Nacua and Hallie Aiono’s Relationship
Puka Nacua and Hallie Aiono began dating around 2021 during Nacua’s time at Brigham Young University. Initially, their relationship remained private, but by 2023, Hallie was frequently seen attending Los Angeles Rams games, supporting Nacua openly.
Their relationship milestones were highlighted on social media, especially during Nacua’s standout moments on the field. For instance, when Nacua scored his first NFL touchdown, a decisive 22-yard game-winner against the Indianapolis Colts, Aiono posted a TikTok showing her overwhelmed emotional reaction, capturing a moment of pure joy and disbelief. The NFL shared the video, describing it as a clip that
will have you in your feels.
When Nacua was on the verge of breaking rookie records for receptions and receiving yards, Aiono again documented the occasion with a TikTok, announcing,
“Today is a very big day. Puka is gonna hit the rookie record… He only needs four catches and 29 yards”.
Their celebrations afterward included Aiono decorating their home and preparing a steak dinner to honor Nacua’s achievements following a game against the San Francisco 49ers.
Significance and Potential Outcomes of the Legal Battle
The Puka Nacua paternity confirmation case remains unresolved, with public opinion divided as former NFL personalities weigh in controversially. The legal proceedings in Los Angeles County will determine not only the paternity of Aiono’s child but could also impact their future custody arrangements and financial responsibilities.
This case is significant for Nacua’s career and personal life, as it touches on his values as portrayed through his Polynesian heritage and his role as a public figure in professional sports. The unfolding drama could influence how NFL players’ private lives intersect with legal issues, custody debates, and media coverage going forward.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why does Puka Nacua cry?
A. The reason is deeply personal: Puka’s father, Lionel Nacua, passed away from diabetes when Puka was just 11. His dad always hoped Puka would play in the NFL. Now, whenever Puka prepares for a game, he thinks of his father and releases those feelings.
Q. What is Puka Nacua’s nationality?
A. Nacua has Samoan, Hawaiian, and Portuguese ancestry. As a baby, he got the nickname “Puka” because he was chubby, which means the same in Samoan. He lived in Provo, Utah, and went to Orem High School in Orem, Utah.
Q. Is Puka Nacua poly?
A. “This feels like home,” says Nacua, a 24-year-old who seems at ease in his position. He is among the newest Polynesian NFL stars, following in the footsteps of players like Penei Sewell from the Detroit Lions and Jordan Mailata from the Philadelphia Eagles. Nacua made a big impact in the NFL during his rookie season in 2023, setting new records.
Q. What nationality is Puka Nacua?
A. Nacua’s family background is Samoan, Hawaiian, and Portuguese. When he was an infant, his size earned him the nickname “Puka,” which means fat and chubby in Samoan.