Phew, that was a close one! Bobby Flay had fans convinced he quit Food Network’s Iron Chef after 17 years of being on and off the show, but so it turns out, it was all just a big joke that was blown out of proportion.

Bobby was just trying to have a little bit of fun this summer when he wore a shirt while shooting an episode of cooking competition that read, “THIS IS MY LAST IRON CHEF BATTLE EVER.” He allegedly dramatically ripped off his apron (the graphic tee was underneath) and stormed away. However, Bobby admitted on Wednesday, Oct. 25 that he regrets the prank since it ultimately just left everyone very confused.

“This past summer when I was in production on Iron Chef Showdown, I wore a T-shirt to have a little fun during my last battle this season. In hindsight, it was probably not the best decision because it’s just creating confusion,” Bobby said in a statement to People. “Food Network has been part of my family for over 20 years and will absolutely continue to be, and though there is a talented bench of Iron Chefs to tap, if I were asked, I’d be excited to return to Kitchen Stadium, whenever my schedule allows.”

After the incident a few months ago, the set was reportedly left silent. According to Vanity Fair, producers of the show were not happy with Bobby (since the show is live, they weren’t able to turn off the cameras). “We’re not going to be able to cut around that,” they told Bobby, to which he responded, “I know. That’s the point.”

It’s unclear if they will blur out the writing on his shirt or just get rid of the scene all together once the episode eventually airs (the new season premieres on Wednesday, Nov. 8 at 9 p.m. on Food Network). But we’re not going to lie, we’d really love to see that scene…