A$AP Rocky may have escaped criminal charges, but A$AP Relli is not backing down from his assault and battery lawsuit against the rapper. The case, stemming from a November 2021 shooting, was first filed in August 2022 but was delayed during the criminal proceedings. However, during a February 26 hearing, Rolling Stone reported that Relli’s lawyer confirmed their intention to proceed with the civil lawsuit.
The lawsuit has been allowed to advance after a judge lifted a stay on the case, setting a trial date for January 12, 2026, following pressure from Relli’s legal team. Relli’s attorney, Melissa Mikail, emphasized the lower standard of proof required in civil cases, stating, “We still believe that our claims have merit, and we intend on fully litigating them.”
A$AP Rocky’s legal team, however, maintains that a trial is unnecessary after the recent criminal case outcome. Rocky’s attorney, James Sargent, argued that the jury’s not guilty verdict, following testimony in the criminal case, nullified the need for further proceedings. “The jury’s acquittal speaks volumes as to how they valued that testimonial evidence,” Sargent stated, adding that they have no intention of settling with Relli.
Despite the legal battle, Relli remains defiant. After the criminal trial concluded with a not guilty verdict on February 14, Relli took to social media, blasting critics and asserting, “Gossiping is a form of entertainment for people who have no meaningful goals or purpose in life… Your existence doesn’t add any value in my life.”
Relli’s response has sparked significant backlash. Following the verdict, 50 Cent, a supporter of Rocky, mocked Relli by calling him “A$AP Telli” on Instagram, while A$AP Ant condemned him on X (formerly Twitter), accusing him of betraying the crew. As the civil case progresses, it’s clear that tensions remain high between the two former allies. The next hearing is scheduled for May 28, 2025.
