I don't get why he just doesn't admit it, and have some fun with it. "Well, I opened my big mouth, said something stupid, and now you're blasting me for it. Okay, I deserve it. It wouldn't be New York if the boo birds didn't come out and boo a dumb move."
Playing it straight won't do him any good. He should be using it as some humor to loosen things up. Guess he's not that kind of guy.
He could lessen the damage by owning it and having a little fun at his own expense. It could be charming, and let's face it, it's not like he has much to lose.
However, I also agree with you that he's not that kind of guy.