KUALA LUMPUR, April 27 -- The Malaysia Cup final descended into chaos last night before a ball was even kicked, as rival fans of Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) and Sri Pahang FC clashed violently outside the Bukit Jalil Stadium here.

What began as a heated exchange escalated into a full-blown brawl at the Axiata Arena entrance.

Witnesses reported scenes of mayhem as traffic cones were ripped from their places and hurled through the air, while flares were ignited and waved dangerously close to the crowd, setting an ominous tone ahead of the country's most prestigious football showdown.

Videos that have since gone viral on social media show furious supporters from both sides exchanging punches and kicks as barricades meant to separate the grou...