Rapper Flo Rida, aka Tramar Lacel Dillard, has won an $82.6 million breach of contract lawsuit against energy drink company Celsius. The lawsuit, filed in 2021, accused Celsius of not paying the rapper the stock options and bonuses he allegedly owed.
Law & Crime Reports that a Broward County, Florida, jury sided with Flo Rida in the case, which his attorney, John Uustal said, involved “complicated legal issues.” Uustal also said the collaboration has helped Celsius more than Flo Rida.
Celsius Energy Drink was first introduced in 2004 and claimed to boost metabolism, increase stamina and improve mental focus. While Red Bull is the clear sales leader in the energy drink industry, Celsius has carved out a niche for itself by positioning itself as a healthier alternative. The collaboration between Flo Rida and Celsius started in 2014 and lasted until 2018.
According to the lawsuit, the company had promised the rapper a 1 percent ownership interest. Yet Flo Rida claimed he was unaware that Celsius was withholding stock and royalties from him.
Celsius’ lawyers said at trial that Flo had paid Rida “more” than the amount owed. Nevertheless, the jury ultimately chose the rapper. Lawyer Uustal said they believed “the jury.” [would] do what is right” and his party trusted the verdict.
