It’s more the “he had to pick Patterson & picked his mark” comment which interprets it was a planned moment out of motive.
Simply, I don’t know all the details & clearly not as privy as Patto is to the ins & outs of the inner running of the club. Patto could have said something completely out of line, it could have been a very minor thing that became a bit more than intended, it could have been an act of bullying. Point is I don’t know exactly but from most reports an apology was given & acceptable, which sounds like it’s dealt with. I’m also not saying it’s okay to slap anyone for the record but there is context to be considered.