Rapper Rick Ross was released from a Miami-area jail Thursday after being arrested on domestic violence charges, telling reporters he is “totally innocent” as he prepared to resume his music career and travel plans. Ross was arrested Thursday morning on felony battery by strangulation and misdemeanor battery charges. The charges followed allegations involving a former girlfriend, Jazzma Kendrick, who reportedly contacted police Tuesday before Ross surrendered two days later. The allegations remain unresolved, and Ross has denied wrongdoing. After his release, Ross quickly returned to his flamboyant public persona. He told reporters he planned to travel to Dubai Friday and Paris Saturday before spending Sunday eating rigatoni with “heavy marinara.” “I’m totally innocent,” Ross said after leaving custody. Here’s Rick Ross addressing media following his release from Miami-Dade jail. @wsvn @JhollyW #1stOn7 pic.twitter.com/vs0CZe4lNh — Sheldon Fox-7 News (@fox_sheldon) October 1, 2026 Rick Ross wasted no time speaking out after posting $6,000 bail following his arrest in Miami. Rozay took to IG and laughed off the situation maintaining his innocence and responding to the judge who said she didn’t know who he is: “I’m innocent, and I’m bigger than Justin… pic.twitter.com/CrcYV0PUty — Diverse Mentality (@DverseMentality) October 1, 2026 During his court appearance, Ross’ attorney asked the judge to expedite his release, citing the rapper’s celebrity status and concerns about his safety while detained. Judge Mindy Glazer rejected any suggestion that Ross should receive special treatment because of his fame. “I have no idea who you are,” Glazer told Ross during the hearing. Rapper Rick Ross Released On Bond, Issues Statement To Media On Jazzma Kendrick’s Assault Claims: “I’m Totally Innocent” Ross later addressed the arrest on Instagram while promoting his music. He also boasted about his stature in popular culture, writing, “I’m bigger than Justin Bieber.” The rapper predicted that news helicopters would soon circle his mansion once the weather cleared. He also compared the media attention surrounding his arrest with the intense coverage that followed O.J. Simpson. Ross said he planned to return to the recording studio and instructed his team to have the facility ready. His comments emphasized music, travel and his trademark bravado despite the pending criminal case. Kendrick has publicly accused Ross of physical abuse, but it has not been established whether those allegations are directly connected to the charges against him. Ross’ release does not resolve the case. The criminal proceedings remain pending as authorities continue addressing the allegations.

Entertainer Kid Cudi has asked a California federal judge to dismiss music superstar M.I.A.’s $2.8 million lawsuit stemming from her removal from his Rebel Ragers Tour after a Dallas concert. Cudi, whose legal name is Scott Mescudi, filed an anti-SLAPP motion arguing that the First Amendment protects his decision about the performers appearing on his tour. Kid Cudi has removed M.I.A. from his tour after she opened for him in Dallas and went on a rant about “illegals” and “being canceled for being a Republican” and how she was performing to a bunch of illegals pic.twitter.com/PGEgJAMU5w — FearBuck (@FearedBuck) May 4, 2026 U.S. District Judge Sherilyn Peace Garnett is handling the case in the Central District of California. The case is docketed as 2:26-cv-05768. M.I.A., whose legal name is Mathangi “Maya” Arulpragasam, sued after performing at Dallas’ Dos Equis Pavilion. Reports differ on whether the May concert occurred May 2 or May 3. According to court-related reports, M.I.A. made remarks concerning immigrants and visas that drew boos from the audience. Cudi subsequently removed her from the tour. Hip-Hop Star Kid Cudi Asks Judge To Dismiss $2.8M Music Superstar M.I.A. Lawsuit Cudi has said he would not keep someone on his tour who made offensive remarks that upset his fans. M.I.A. later said she had been canceled over numerous issues. However, she said she never expected to face consequences for being a Republican voter. Her complaint accuses Cudi of inducing a contract breach and interfering with her business relationships. She alleges Live Nation guaranteed more than $2.8 million for her tour appearances. M.I.A. seeks $2.805 million in guaranteed fees and about $290,000 tied to a lost private-party opportunity. She also alleges losses involving merchandise, VIP offerings and licensing deals. Live Nation is not a defendant. Cudi’s attorney, Mathew Rosengart, argues the lawsuit targets protected expressive conduct. His motion relies on Symmonds v. Mahoney, a 2019 California appellate decision involving singer Eddie Money. That court held that selecting musicians for a live performance could constitute protected First Amendment activity. California’s anti-SLAPP statute allows defendants to challenge claims arising from protected activity. A plaintiff must then show a probability of prevailing. M.I.A.’s attorney, Howard King, has not publicly responded to the motion. He previously said M.I.A. was “contractually allowed to say whatever she wanted on stage.” Judge Garnett’s ruling will determine whether the claims proceed into discovery.

Award-winning director Spike Lee’s pregame dinner at Yankee Stadium became a viral spectacle Wednesday after a Yankee fan approached him about Palestine. Lee was dining as the New York Yankees hosted the Boston Red Sox when the encounter unfolded. Video shared online showed the filmmaker becoming visibly agitated. Sports radio host Andy Slater posted footage of the confrontation. He reported that the fan had been recording Lee while he ate. JUST NOW: Spike Lee has to be held back from going after a fan while dining pregame at Yankee Stadium. The fan was filming Spike eating and asked him how he felt about Palestine, according to people closer to them at the table. pic.twitter.com/Lg1vFtiRed — Andy Slater (@AndySlater) September 30, 2026 People seated near the exchange told Slater that the fan raised the subject of Palestine. The short video shows several people moving toward the pair as tensions escalated. No punches are visible in the footage. However, later reports provided additional details about the interaction. The New York Post reported that the fan had approached Lee while seeking a selfie. The person allegedly asked Lee to repeat an offensive statement about Palestine. Award-Winning Director Spike Lee Seen Confronting Yankee Fan Over Alleged Palestine Question The fan was reportedly removed from Yankee Stadium afterward. Representatives for Lee and the Yankees did not respond to requests for comment, according to the newspaper. The video quickly spread across social media. Sports accounts also highlighted Lee’s longtime status as an outspoken New York Knicks fan. Some posts described the encounter as a potential “throw hands” moment. Other reactions criticized the fan’s approach and pointed to Lee’s public support for Palestinians. Lee’s views on the issue have been visible at public events. During February’s NBA All-Star Game, he wore a sweater featuring a keffiyeh-inspired design and Palestinian flag imagery. Lee later said his clothing reflected concern for Palestinian children and civilians. He also cited human dignity when discussing his position. Still, the Yankee Stadium video provides only a partial account of Wednesday’s encounter. It captures Lee’s reaction but does not show everything that preceded the confrontation. The incident highlights how quickly private interactions involving celebrities can become public. A fan’s cellphone recording can reach millions before those involved provide their accounts. Neither Lee nor the Yankees has released a detailed statement about the incident. The circumstances surrounding the confrontation remain based largely on the video and published reports.

50 Cent is speaking out after his former partner Daphne Joy addressed a longstanding rumor involving Ye, formerly known as Kanye West, and his wife, Bianca Censori. Joy, who shares 14-year-old son Sire with the hip-hop mogul, discussed the rumor during the Sept. 29 episode of Pillow Talk, hosted by Ryan Pownall. During the conversation, Pownall asked Joy about claims that she had a threesome with Ye and Censori. Joy laughed at the question before responding, “Oh my God, I need some water.” She then praised Pownall for his research but stopped short of confirming or denying the alleged encounter. “I guess I would just say that they’re definitely a very, very sexy hot couple,” Joy said. View this post on Instagram Joy then asked Pownall whether he would participate in a threesome with Ye and Censori. “Whatever they want. Absolutely,” he replied. Joy went on to discuss threesomes more generally, saying her priority would be making sure everyone involved felt comfortable. 50 Cent later addressed the exchange on social media. The rapper reposted a graphic that characterized Joy’s comments as confirmation of the rumor. Hip-Hop Mogul 50 Cent Clowns Baby Mama Daphne Joy After Ye & Bianca Censori Threesome Question In Old Interview “im just seeing this, old DJ with the BJ going crazy LOL,” he wrote. He followed up by bringing their teenage son into the conversation. “Why they don’t ask how does your 14 year old son feel about you saying all this,” 50 Cent wrote. Joy’s comments, however, did not explicitly confirm that the alleged encounter occurred. The rumor began circulating in June 2025, with reports claiming the alleged encounter took place in Las Vegas. Neither Ye nor Censori has publicly confirmed the allegation or addressed Joy’s recent comments. The exchange marks another public moment between 50 Cent and Joy, whose co-parenting relationship has periodically played out online. The former couple welcomed Sire in 2012. In 2024, 50 Cent discussed seeking sole custody after allegations involving Joy surfaced in a lawsuit against Sean “Diddy” Combs. Joy denied the allegations.

Hip-hop star Rick Ross was arrested in Miami Beach on a felony battery by strangulation charge, according to jail and court records. Ross, whose real name is William Leonard Roberts, was booked at 6:10 a.m. Thursday. He was transported to Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center in West Miami-Dade. The 50-year-old rapper faces one felony count of battery by strangulation. He also faces a misdemeanor battery charge. Both offenses are classified as domestic violence matters. Rick Ross has been arrested by Miami Beach Police for battery by strangulation and domestic battery. He’s in Miami-Dade jail. @wsvn pic.twitter.com/7AHAbv1x29 — Sheldon Fox-7 News (@fox_sheldon) October 1, 2026 A court set Ross’ total bond at $6,000. The felony charge carries a $5,000 bond, while the misdemeanor charge carries $1,000. Ross has retained Miami attorney Bradley Horenstein, according to court records. His arraignment is scheduled for Oct. 22. Authorities have not disclosed the circumstances surrounding the alleged incident. Court records also do not identify the alleged victim. Rapper Rick Ross Arrested In Miami Beach On Felony Battery Charges After Jazzma Kendrick Accused The Hip-Hop Star Of Domestic Violence The arrest follows public allegations from Ross’ former girlfriend, Jazzma Kendrick. She accused the rapper of physical abuse in Instagram Stories posted days before his arrest. Kendrick shared photographs showing an injured lip. She attributed the injury to an alleged encounter with Ross. “The day Rick busted my lip and the day I left,” Kendrick wrote in one caption. She also wrote, “He saw a punching bag,” while discussing the alleged incident. Kendrick later said she was doing well and encouraged people facing abuse to leave unsafe relationships. It remains unclear whether Kendrick’s allegations are connected to Ross’ criminal case. Authorities have not publicly linked her allegations to the arrest. Ross has not publicly addressed Kendrick’s accusations. He also has not issued a statement regarding his arrest. The criminal case adds another legal matter for Ross, the founder of Maybach Music Group and a prominent figure in hip-hop. The Miami-area native built his career through music and entrepreneurship. His catalog includes “Hustlin’,” his 2006 breakout single. Ross remains subject to the pending charges. His next scheduled court appearance is the Oct. 22 arraignment.

Hip-Hop star Jadakiss teamed up with comedian Hasan Minhaj to throw a block party in Lower Manhattan on September 21, drawing out several of New York rap’s biggest names to promote their limited-edition coffee-chai collaboration. Launched in 2022, the original success of Jadakiss’s Kiss Cafe received investment interest from hip-hop mogul 50 Cent. Kiss and Minhaj’s “Instant Classic” bundle was influenced by their family-oriented businesses. Jadakiss founded Kiss Cafe with his father, Bob Phillips, and son, Jaewon Phillips. Minhaj became an investor and business partner in Kolkata Chai Co., founded by Bengali brothers Ayan and Ani Sanyal. The limited-edition bundle contains Kiss Cafe’s medium-dark Arabica blend, Kolkata Chai’s signature concentrate and a handheld frother. A crowd gathered outside of Kolkata Chai Co.’s storefront on Kenmare Street. Lines extending down the block. The gathering included Dave East, C.J. Wallace, Jaewon Phillips, and comedian Usama Siddique. For Minhaj, the collaboration also marked a meeting with an artist he admired long before business entered the picture. “My earliest memory of Jadakiss is, funny enough, The Lox’s ‘Money, Power, Respect’ video,” Minhaj said. “I was in the eighth grade.” Hip-Hop’s Jadakiss & Comedian Hasan Minhaj Drop Instant Classic Coffee-Chia Collaboration With NYC Block Party In Lower Manhattan Minhaj said Jadakiss’ “Jenny From The Block” collaboration with Jennifer Lopez captured the spirit of the new partnership. “This is a New York partnership,” he said. “It’s a combination of two different cultures.” Jadakiss sees the project as something larger than a limited coffee release. He hopes it encourages other family businesses to work across cultural lines. “Maybe this can spark a flame in some other families to do some things,” he said. “We’ll do some more collabs with some other Black and brown families.” For Minhaj, working with Jadakiss carried a personal significance. “It’s an honor to team up with my childhood hero,” he said. “It’s not only for the culture, but to have two cultures collide and make something new.”

Sean “Diddy” Combs has been returned to solitary confinement at New Jersey’s FCI Fort Dix where he is serving his sentence. Combs, 56, was moved to the Special Housing Unit at FCI Fort Dix in New Jersey, TMZ reported Wednesday. The move follows an NBC News report detailing allegations about his treatment behind bars. Diddy is reportedly being sent back to solitary confinement after an NBC News report detailed his alleged VIP treatment behind bars. According to the report, he paid fellow inmates to give him massages, cook meals, clean for him and do his laundry, while also allegedly having… https://t.co/oVevcm2yyc pic.twitter.com/1hLvKLIO1G — Kurrco (@Kurrco) September 30, 2026 Multiple sources told TMZ that prison officials are investigating claims that Combs received special treatment while incarcerated. The allegations include massages, elaborate meals, contraband alcohol and other inmates performing personal chores. NBC News sources also alleged that inmates made Combs’ bed, washed his clothes and prepared his meals. The reported food included curry chicken, pizza and empanadas. The report further alleged that inmates cleaned Combs’ toilet before he used it. Sources also claimed he had access to a contraband cellphone. Hip-Hop Mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs Headed Back To Solitary In New Jersey’s FCI Fort Dix After Alleged Clip Of Him With Cellphone & Pampering Rumors According to NBC News, Combs allegedly used the phone to view nude photographs of a former partner. The Bureau of Prisons has not publicly confirmed the allegations. TMZ reported that placing an inmate in the Special Housing Unit can occur during an internal investigation. The move does not establish that the allegations are true. This is not Combs’ first stint in solitary confinement at FCI Fort Dix. He was placed in the Special Housing Unit in July following a reported altercation with another inmate. Combs was released from the unit in August. His projected release date has also changed several times. Federal Bureau of Prisons records now list Jan. 21, 2028, as his projected release date. Combs is serving a 50-month federal sentence following his 2025 conviction. A jury found him guilty on two counts involving transportation for prostitution. Jurors acquitted him of racketeering and sex trafficking charges. Prosecutors had accused Combs of arranging sexual encounters known as “freak-offs.” Combs has denied wrongdoing related to the broader allegations. His attorneys have appealed his convictions. His return to the Special Housing Unit marks another development in his incarceration. The outcome of the reported investigation could determine whether additional disciplinary measures follow.

Hip-Hop star Lil Durk’s separate federal racketeering trial has been pushed to Aug. 30, 2027, extending his detention after his recent acquittal. Lil Durk, whose real name Durk Banks, remains in federal custody while facing separate racketeering and firearms charges. U.S. District Judge Michael W. Fitzgerald entered the new trial date Wednesday. The proceeding had been tentatively scheduled for Oct. 5, 2026. LIL DURK UPDATE: Lil Durk’s racketeering trial has been postponed until August 2027. Judge Michael W. Fitzgerald approved the defense’s request for more time. “Failure to grant the continuance would unreasonably deny defendant continuity of counsel and would deny defense… — Taylor Parise (@TaylorParise) October 1, 2026 The defense requested additional time to prepare for trial. Prosecutors did not object to the postponement. Defense attorneys cited the case’s complexity, extensive evidence and scheduling conflicts. They also said additional time is needed for investigation and evidence review. The delay comes after a federal jury acquitted Banks on all five counts in his first trial. The verdict was delivered Sept. 11 in Los Angeles. That case involved allegations that Durk arranged an attack targeting rapper Quando Rondo. The 2022 shooting killed Rondo’s cousin, Saviay’a “Lul Pab” Robinson. Hip-Hop star Lil Durk’s Federal Racketeering Trial Puhsed To Augugst 2027, Bond Hearing Set For October 5 Prosecutors alleged the attack was retaliation for the 2020 killing of Chicago rapper King Von. Lil Durk pleaded not guilty and was acquitted of the charges. His attorney, Drew Findling, called for Durk’s immediate release after the verdict. “Lil Durk is not guilty of all charges,” Findling said. “The shackles must come off, and he must walk free.” That freedom has not yet materialized. Durk remains detained because the separate federal case is still pending. His next major court appearance is scheduled for Nov. 4. Judge Fitzgerald set a bond review hearing for 2:30 p.m. The court also ordered U.S. Probation and Pretrial Services to provide an updated bail report. Durk’s attorneys are seeking his release while he awaits the racketeering trial. The pending case involves allegations under the Violent Crimes in Aid of Racketeering statute. A related firearms charge also remains unresolved. Durk’s co-defendants in the first trial, Deandre Dontrell Wilson and David Brian Lindsey, were convicted on stalking-related counts. The new August 2027 trial date gives both sides additional time to prepare. Meanwhile, the November bond hearing could determine whether Durk remains in federal custody pending trial.

Rick Ross and Maybach Music Group are facing a lawsuit over two canceled North Carolina concerts tied to the rapper’s Port of Miami anniversary tour. Omega14 Incorporated sued Ross, MMG and his touring company over performances scheduled in Greensboro and Charlotte. The concerts were part of Ross’ Port of Miami 20th Anniversary Orchestra Tour. The trek celebrated the 20th anniversary of his 2006 debut album, Port of Miami. A tour organizer has filed suit against rapper Rick Ross, accusing him of breaking a contract when he decided not to perform two August concerts in North Carolina. #nccourts@CourthouseNewshttps://t.co/iiInUHhcQz — Sydney Haulenbeek (@SKHaulenbeek) September 29, 2026 According to the complaint, Ross agreed to perform for at least one hour at each North Carolina concert. The contract allegedly allowed cancellations only for “severe injury or death.” Omega14 alleges MMG manager Tawanda Roberts contacted the promoter at 1 p.m. before the Greensboro show. Roberts allegedly said Ross “refused to perform” both North Carolina dates. The Greensboro concert was scheduled that night. The Charlotte performance was scheduled for the following day. The promoter claims the late cancellations created $261,000 in losses. That figure includes venue, production, marketing, lodging and transportation expenses. Hip-Hop Star Rick Ross & Maybach Music Group (MMG) Faces $261k Lawsuit Over Missed North Carolina Concerts Omega14 also alleges Ross performed in Orlando and Miami Beach on the same dates. The promoter argues those appearances were “inconsistent with an inability to perform caused by severe injury or illness.” The complaint accuses Ross and the defendants of conduct that was “unethical, unscrupulous, and substantially injurious” to businesses and consumers. Omega14 said the cancellations also affected orchestral musicians, choir members and venue operators. Ross has not publicly responded to the lawsuit. MMG and his touring company have not addressed the allegations publicly. The litigation places Ross’ touring commitments under scrutiny while revisiting the legacy of Port of Miami. The album established Ross as a major force in Southern hip-hop. The lawsuit comes amid separate allegations from Ross’ former girlfriend, Jazzma Kendrick. She recently accused the rapper of physical abuse. Kendrick shared photographs she said showed injuries from an alleged assault. “He saw a punching bag,” she wrote. Ross has not publicly addressed Kendrick’s allegations. For Omega14, the North Carolina dispute centers on whether Ross’ cancellations violated his performance agreement and caused substantial financial losses.

Swae Lee is bringing his Mississippi roots, love of football and signature energy to Crown Royal’s latest game-day celebration. The Grammy-nominated artist has stepped into the role of Crown Royal’s first-ever “Crown Quarterback” as part of the brand’s “Royal Rituals” campaign, giving him an opportunity to return home and spotlight the traditions surrounding football culture in Oxford, Mississippi. For Swae Lee, the partnership was an easy fit. “Being from Mississippi, I was excited to come home and show people what makes Oxford game day so special,” Swae Lee told HOT 97. “I’m a huge football fan, so being part of Crown Royal’s ‘Royal Rituals’ was an easy yes.” While football may be at the center of game day, Swae says the experience goes far beyond what happens on the field. “As the first Crown Quarterback, I got to celebrate the whole game-day experience — the music, the style, the food and all the energy surrounding the game, not just what happens on the field.” Coming Home to Mississippi: Raised in Mississippi, returning to the state for the campaign gave Swae Lee an opportunity to celebrate a culture he grew up around. “Mississippi will always be home, so it felt good to come back and celebrate a culture I grew up around,” he said. According to Swae, football weekends in Mississippi represent something much bigger than four quarters of competition. “Football weekends here are bigger than the game. They’re about the music, food and drinks that bring everybody together,” he explained. “There’s a different kind of energy here, so getting to bring my own vibes and share that with people was special.” That sense of community is also at the center of Crown Royal’s “Royal Rituals” campaign, which focuses on the traditions friends, families and fans build around sports. Swae sees an immediate connection between that atmosphere and his own experiences performing for massive crowds. “That’s what I love about sports — it’s way bigger than the game,” he said. “It’s the same feeling I get onstage, when everybody’s locked in and matching your energy, the whole place becomes one.” “Everybody knows the same songs, has their go-to food and drinks and pulls up with the same crew.” He also appreciated the campaign’s decision to incorporate traditions unique to Oxford. “I liked that Crown Royal kept it local by pairing an Oxford classic like chicken on a stick with a Crown Royal cocktail,” Swae added. “That’s the type of moment you don’t forget.” Swae Lee’s Ultimate Game-Day Playlist: Of course, you can’t have a major game-day experience without the right soundtrack. If Swae Lee had control of the stadium speakers, he already knows exactly what he would play. “If I’m controlling the music at a major football game, I’m going with ‘Flammable,’ ‘Sicko Mode,’ and ‘Rockstar Raging,’” he said. “Those records bring that high-energy, turn-up feeling that you want in a stadium.” As for the Swae Lee record that deserves a permanent spot on everybody’s game-day playlist? “You definitely gotta have ‘Flammable’ on there.” And don’t expect him to quietly sit back and watch the action once kickoff arrives. “I’m definitely competitive,” Swae admitted. “I like watching the game, but once I’m locked in, I’m locked in.” “I’m talking trash, celebrating every play, all of that. I can be laid-back before the game, but once it starts, I’m in it.” Swae Lee’s Ultimate Game-Day Playlist Swae Lee says the partnership ultimately worked because both music and sports have the ability to create shared moments. “Every time I perform, I’m trying to bring people together and create a moment everybody can feel,” he explained. “That’s what Crown Royal is doing with ‘Royal Rituals,’ so the partnership made sense to me.” “I got to bring my own energy, represent Mississippi and show people what makes football culture back home different.” And when it comes to celebrating with his own crew, Swae keeps his Crown Royal order simple. “You can’t go wrong with a Crown & Cola,” he said. “It’s an easy go-to when the crew’s together.” Swae Lee Is Focused on His Next Chapter: Beyond football and the “Royal Rituals” campaign, Swae Lee is still focused on expanding creatively. After years of hit records, major collaborations and global success, the rapper and singer says evolving as an artist remains one of his biggest motivations. “Honestly, just continuing to evolve,” Swae said. “I’ve been blessed to experience a lot in this career, so now I’m focused on creating things that feel fresh and timeless.” “I want to keep pushing myself, trying new sounds, and making music that people can connect with years from now.” Despite everything he has already accomplished, Swae believes there is still plenty left for him to explore. “There’s still a lot I haven’t done yet, and that’s what keeps me motivated.” Fans also won’t have to wait long to see what comes next. Swae Lee revealed that the second European leg of his tour is set to begin in November, with tickets going on sale through his official website. He also teased new music and upcoming collaborations. “There’s a lot coming up,” he said. “European Tour Leg 2 kicks off in November and was just announced today, with tickets going on sale Friday at swaeleeofficial.com.” View this post on Instagram “And there’s definitely new music and some exciting collaborations on the way, so stay locked in. More surprises coming soon.” Between representing his Mississippi roots, bringing his energy to football culture and preparing another wave of music, Swae Lee appears ready to keep the momentum going both onstage and beyond it.