NFL legend and Hall of Famer Shannon Sharpe continues to face public scrutiny and online trolling following the public disclosure of a serious sexual assault lawsuit earlier this year. The case, which involved a young model, was settled for a staggering sum, but the disturbing allegations and leaked evidence have left a lasting stain on the former athlete's reputation.
The Multi-Million Dollar Legal Battle
The controversy began when a young model, who also works on the platform OnlyFans, filed a lawsuit against Sharpe, accusing him of sexual assault and issuing threats. The initial claim sought $50 million in damages. The plaintiff's attorney, Tony Buzbee, played a pivotal role in bringing the case to light. By July 2025, the legal dispute reached its conclusion outside of court, with Shannon Sharpe agreeing to a $20 million settlement to the woman, as per reports from NBC Sports.
Disturbing Allegations and Leaked Audio Evidence
The court documents, accessed by media outlets, painted a grim picture of the alleged relationship. The model claimed that Sharpe would fly into "fits of anger" when confronted about infidelity. More alarmingly, she alleged he found a way to enter her apartment complex without her permission.
The situation escalated in April 2025 when attorney Tony Buzbee released a recording of a phone call between Sharpe and the accuser. The audio clip was deeply shocking. During a conversation about a trip to Los Angeles, the model told Sharpe she did not want to be choked. Sharpe's response, as per the recording, was: "I might choke you in public." He then added, "Big black guy chokes small white woman." This evidence became a central piece in the public's understanding of the case.
Sharpe's Defense and the Final Settlement
Throughout the ordeal, Shannon Sharpe and his legal team, led by attorney Lanny J. Davis, maintained his innocence. They argued the relationship was entirely consensual and described the lawsuit as a "trap." Davis pointed to the plaintiff's work on OnlyFans, suggesting her accusations were part of a pattern of role-playing for money. "What she does on OnlyFans was for money and role playing and virtual fantasy with money who pay her... It was a fact that the plaintiff started to charge Mr. Sharpe money," Davis stated in a defense of his client.
Despite this firm defense, the case did not go to trial. The parties reached a confidential agreement, with the financial settlement of $20 million being reported in July 2025. While the legal matter is resolved, the court of public opinion continues to deliberate, with the leaked audio and serious allegations ensuring the story remains a topic of intense discussion and embarrassment for the sports icon.
