Why did Fez beat up Nate in the Euphoria season 2 premiere?

Spoilers ahead of the Euphoria season 2 premiere.

Euphoria season 2 made its debut with “Trying to Get to Heaven before They Close the Door,” an episode that packed a lot into its runtime including an opening flashback sequence with a backstory for Fez that puts some emotional emphasis into his decision to beat Nate at the New Year’s Eve party.

Considering, Fez split his time between chatting Lexi up–setting the groundwork for an unexpected and somewhat sweet relationship–and staring at Nate from across the room, it was obvious something was going to go down.

The two have had beef since last season, though it’s understandable if some viewers forgot since it’s been over two years since the finale of the first season. If you need a recap of the events that led to Fez breaking Nate’s face, here’s what we know!

Why did Fez beat up Nate in Euphoria season 2?

Fez is one of the most chill characters on Euphoria. He’s also fiercely protective of his family and, as revealed in the season 2 premiere, was taught to by his grandmother to protect his people and his business through whatever means necessary.

Last season, when Rue asked for his help to get Nate to back off, Fez did his part. He threatened Nate, stating he’d kill him if he doesn’t leave Rue and Jules alone. In retaliation, Nate called the police on Fez which led to his and Ash’s house being raided.

While they weren’t able to pin anything on the two brothers, it did lead to Ash killing Mouse and shattering Custer’s nose. Now the two have to work with a new supplier named Laurie, and Ash has a death to his name which is not at all what Fez wanted for him at such a young age.

In a parallel to his grandmother, Fez handles the person who wronged his family and his business. He doesn’t use a gun or a crowbar, he uses his fists to send a message: Don’t mess with him and his, ever. Considering who Nate is as a person, this situation can only escalate from here.

New episodes of Euphoria season 2 air Sundays at 9 p.m. ET on HBO and HBO Max.