The Javits Center in New York came alive this weekend as Fanatics Fest 2025 kicked off with an electric start. The three-day mega event, running from June 20 to 22, transformed the convention center into a sports lover’s playground.

With legends like Tom Brady, Rob Gronkowski, LeBron James, Derek Jeter, Kevin Durant, and Peyton Manning sharing the spotlight with celebrities like Travis Scott and Kevin Costner, the atmosphere was a perfect blend of athletic nostalgia and Hollywood flair.

Day one belonged to Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski. The former Patriots and Buccaneers duo reunited in front of an enthusiastic crowd, determined to rekindle the playful chaos that once defined their partnership.

And boy, did they deliver—just not quite as expected.In an attempt to recreate their iconic 2020 Super Bowl boat parade moment, Brady took a replica of the Lombardi Trophy and searched the crowd, locking eyes with someone he thought was Gronk. Surrounded by fans dressed in his iconic No. 87 jersey, the real Gronkowski stepped forward just in time to receive the throw. He caught it—but the landing wasn’t flawless. The top of the trophy remained in his hands while the base broke clean off and hit the floor.

“You broke it,” Brady exclaimed, clearly stunned by the mishap. “You are washed up. I’m going home.” The moment, which was caught on camera and instantly spread across social media, became the defining viral clip of the day.The playful banter didn’t end there. Brady had earlier made a WWE-style entrance, even ripping up an Eli Manning jersey. In a moment of friendly retaliation, Manning tackled him in the hallway, evoking memories of their long-standing rivalry.

Yet, instead of tension, the two were soon seen tossing passes to each other, proving that this festival was more about camaraderie than competition.But the trophy toss wasn’t just a comedic stunt—it highlighted the legacy of a duo who helped shape an era of NFL dominance. Brady and Gronkowski played 11 seasons together, combining for over 9,200 yards and 93 touchdowns. They weren’t just teammates—they were a dynasty.

Their chemistry brought four Super Bowl titles, five trips to the big game, and six AFC Championship appearances. Gronk, despite battling numerous injuries, remained a dominant force whenever Brady was under center.While head coach Bill Belichick and Brady are often credited as the backbone of the Patriots’ 2000s-2010s dynasty, Gronkowski’s contributions were equally significant. Drafted in 2010, he instantly made an impact by catching 10 touchdown passes in his rookie season.

With 92 regular season TD receptions and a record 15 in the playoffs (until recently surpassed by Travis Kelce), Gronk earned his reputation as the greatest tight end in NFL history.That’s what made this reunion moment so surreal. To see the pair, now retired legends, still able to create buzz with a simple toss of a trophy—albeit a broken one—underscores their enduring popularity. Fanatics Fest is far from over, but thanks to Brady and Gronkowski, it’s already scored a viral touchdown.Also Read: Not a spring chicken anymore? Chiefs' Andy Reid is not afraid to limit Travis Kelce’s load and become the 'bad guy'