#FASHIONFAB: LaKeith Stanfield for Dior’s Fall 2026 Ad Campaign
Dior Homme Fall 2026 Ad Campaign
A violin and delphiniums. Knits and sequins; médaillons and check. LaKeith Stanfield spend a dream-like day in the French countryside.
Cool!
#RHOP: 'Real Housewives of Potomac' visit Houston to honor Gizelle Bryant's late father in park ribbon-cutting
Videographers had cameras at every angle for the ribbon-cutting in northeast Houston Tuesday morning. The park was beautiful, but the lenses were trained in the opposite direction, to where the "real housewives" were sitting.
The guest of honor at the unveiling of Curtis M. Graves Park was none other than his daughter, Gizelle Bryant, a star on the Bravo TV show "Real Housewives of Potomac."
Curtis Graves, who died in 2023, was a civil rights leader and one of the first Black Texans elected to the state House of Representatives post-Reconstruction. Graves served three terms in the Texas House from 1967 to 1973. After an unsuccessful bid for Texas Senate, Graves worked for NASA as director of educational programs and later as director of public affairs.
"I can't imagine what it was in the '60s to be a Black man, to be a Black man that is fighting for rights, for equal rights," Bryant said of her father. "I can't imagine what it was for a Black man to be fighting for equal rights in the South."
"Cannot imagine. I one thousand percent appreciate his courage. I appreciate his conviction. I appreciate his sacrifice. Every day of my life, I am honored, I am humbled to be Curtis Graves' daughter."
Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis unveiled the flood detention basin and surrounding trails. Alongside Ellis was state Sen. Sarah Eckhardt, whose father, Bob Eckhardt, worked with Graves while serving in the U.S. House of Representatives.
The 75-acre and $3.2 million park, which has swings, fishing and picnic areas, will get two murals and a 6-foot-tall granite statue of Graves by the end of October.
"He was just such an inspiration," Ellis said. "I've researched his record, I've read his book. He represented and championed this community at a time when our voices and perspectives had long been ignored."
The guest of honor at the unveiling of Curtis M. Graves Park was none other than his daughter, Gizelle Bryant, a star on the Bravo TV show "Real Housewives of Potomac."
Curtis Graves, who died in 2023, was a civil rights leader and one of the first Black Texans elected to the state House of Representatives post-Reconstruction. Graves served three terms in the Texas House from 1967 to 1973. After an unsuccessful bid for Texas Senate, Graves worked for NASA as director of educational programs and later as director of public affairs.
"I can't imagine what it was in the '60s to be a Black man, to be a Black man that is fighting for rights, for equal rights," Bryant said of her father. "I can't imagine what it was for a Black man to be fighting for equal rights in the South."
"Cannot imagine. I one thousand percent appreciate his courage. I appreciate his conviction. I appreciate his sacrifice. Every day of my life, I am honored, I am humbled to be Curtis Graves' daughter."
Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis unveiled the flood detention basin and surrounding trails. Alongside Ellis was state Sen. Sarah Eckhardt, whose father, Bob Eckhardt, worked with Graves while serving in the U.S. House of Representatives.
The 75-acre and $3.2 million park, which has swings, fishing and picnic areas, will get two murals and a 6-foot-tall granite statue of Graves by the end of October.
"He was just such an inspiration," Ellis said. "I've researched his record, I've read his book. He represented and championed this community at a time when our voices and perspectives had long been ignored."
#NewMusic from Kenyon Dixon “No Jodeci”
Five-time Grammy®-nominated R&B artist Kenyon Dixon has released a heartfelt new single, “No Jodeci.” The track serves as the second preview of his highly anticipated concept album, Ego Ruins Everything, which is scheduled for release on July 24.
Described as a slow-burning showcase of Dixon’s ability to craft timeless R&B, “No Jodeci” pairs his signature smooth vocals with an infectious hook. The record heavily explores themes of vulnerability and introspection, built around lyrics that capture a raw internal dialogue: “‘Cause I been searching / Ain’t found what I’ve been looking for, been feeling worthless / Girl, I been hurtin’ / Been tryna find my healing in sections and churches.”
The new album will mark Dixon’s first solo project since his nostalgic 2024 EP, The R&B You Love: For the ’99 and the 2000s.
“No Jodeci” follows the April release of “Talk You Through It,” a steamy cut that garnered acclaim from major industry publications including Essence, Vibe, and Rated R&B. To build anticipation for that release, Dixon partnered with the platform YAMS to host an exclusive early listening event, while also rewarding his dedicated fanbase—affectionately known as “KENFOLK”—with limited-edition autographed posters.
Dixon arrives at this album rollout amid a highly successful 2026. He is currently nominated for Best Group at the upcoming BET Awards alongside Terrace Martin for their collaborative album, Come As You Are. Furthermore, his profile grew considerably following a recent appearance providing background vocals for both artists during the highly publicized Tyrese vs. Tank VERZUZ battle.
Five-time Grammy®-nominated R&B artist Kenyon Dixon has released a heartfelt new single, “No Jodeci.” The track serves as the second preview of his highly anticipated concept album, Ego Ruins Everything, which is scheduled for release on July 24.
Described as a slow-burning showcase of Dixon’s ability to craft timeless R&B, “No Jodeci” pairs his signature smooth vocals with an infectious hook. The record heavily explores themes of vulnerability and introspection, built around lyrics that capture a raw internal dialogue: “‘Cause I been searching / Ain’t found what I’ve been looking for, been feeling worthless / Girl, I been hurtin’ / Been tryna find my healing in sections and churches.”
The new album will mark Dixon’s first solo project since his nostalgic 2024 EP, The R&B You Love: For the ’99 and the 2000s.
“No Jodeci” follows the April release of “Talk You Through It,” a steamy cut that garnered acclaim from major industry publications including Essence, Vibe, and Rated R&B. To build anticipation for that release, Dixon partnered with the platform YAMS to host an exclusive early listening event, while also rewarding his dedicated fanbase—affectionately known as “KENFOLK”—with limited-edition autographed posters.
Dixon arrives at this album rollout amid a highly successful 2026. He is currently nominated for Best Group at the upcoming BET Awards alongside Terrace Martin for their collaborative album, Come As You Are. Furthermore, his profile grew considerably following a recent appearance providing background vocals for both artists during the highly publicized Tyrese vs. Tank VERZUZ battle.
LISTEN HERE:
To support his new music, Dixon is gearing up for an intimate series of live performances across several major markets late this summer.
August 7-8: Los Angeles, CA
Soul & R&B
August 15: Chicago, IL
August 16: St. Louis, MO
August 19: Detroit, MI
Yup
To support his new music, Dixon is gearing up for an intimate series of live performances across several major markets late this summer.
August 7-8: Los Angeles, CA
Soul & R&B
August 15: Chicago, IL
August 16: St. Louis, MO
August 19: Detroit, MI
Yup
#HipHopNews: Kanye West Expected To Settle In Ex-Assistant’s Sexual Assault Lawsuit
Kanye West’s long-running legal battle with former assistant Lauren Pisciotta appears to be nearing an end.
According to newly filed court documents, attorneys representing both Ye and Pisciotta have informed a Los Angeles judge that they have reached a settlement in principle following mediation earlier this month. While the agreement has not yet been finalized, the development prompted the court to remove an upcoming hearing from its calendar as both sides work to complete the remaining terms.
If finalized, the settlement would resolve one of the highest-profile civil lawsuits currently surrounding the Chicago rapper and fashion mogul.
Pisciotta initially filed suit in 2024, alleging sexual harassment and wrongful termination stemming from her employment as West’s assistant. She later amended the complaint to include additional allegations of sexual assault, battery, and sex trafficking.
West has consistently denied all of the allegations throughout the proceedings. The reported settlement in principle is not an admission of liability or wrongdoing by either party but rather an agreement to resolve the dispute outside of trial.
The parties are expected to return to court in late September if the settlement is not finalized or if additional proceedings become necessary.
Should the agreement be completed, it will close another chapter in the series of legal challenges that have surrounded Ye in recent years.
According to newly filed court documents, attorneys representing both Ye and Pisciotta have informed a Los Angeles judge that they have reached a settlement in principle following mediation earlier this month. While the agreement has not yet been finalized, the development prompted the court to remove an upcoming hearing from its calendar as both sides work to complete the remaining terms.
If finalized, the settlement would resolve one of the highest-profile civil lawsuits currently surrounding the Chicago rapper and fashion mogul.
Pisciotta initially filed suit in 2024, alleging sexual harassment and wrongful termination stemming from her employment as West’s assistant. She later amended the complaint to include additional allegations of sexual assault, battery, and sex trafficking.
West has consistently denied all of the allegations throughout the proceedings. The reported settlement in principle is not an admission of liability or wrongdoing by either party but rather an agreement to resolve the dispute outside of trial.
The parties are expected to return to court in late September if the settlement is not finalized or if additional proceedings become necessary.
Should the agreement be completed, it will close another chapter in the series of legal challenges that have surrounded Ye in recent years.
Chris Brown’s Former Housekeeper Awarded $13M In Dog Attack Lawsuit
Chris Brown has been ordered to pay $13 million in damages after a jury found him liable in a civil lawsuit brought by his former housekeeper, who claimed she suffered serious injuries after being attacked by one of the singer’s dogs.
The verdict was handed down Tuesday following a lengthy trial involving Brown and former employee Maria Avila, who alleged the incident occurred while she was working at his California residence.
According to the lawsuit, Avila was taking out the trash when she was allegedly mauled by a large dog roaming Brown’s backyard. She argued that Brown failed to properly restrain the animal, making him responsible for the injuries she sustained during the attack.
Brown denied those claims throughout the litigation, maintaining that Avila provoked the dog and was responsible for the incident.
During the trial, Avila testified that the attack left her covered in blood and with severe injuries. Brown also testified, explaining that he did not personally call 911 because he feared news of the incident would be leaked to the media. Instead, a member of his team contacted emergency responders.
Avila originally sought $90 million in damages, but the jury ultimately awarded her $13 million.
The judgment marks another significant legal setback for Brown, whose career has continued alongside a series of high-profile legal disputes over the years.
Chris Brown has been ordered to pay $13 million in damages after a jury found him liable in a civil lawsuit brought by his former housekeeper, who claimed she suffered serious injuries after being attacked by one of the singer’s dogs.
The verdict was handed down Tuesday following a lengthy trial involving Brown and former employee Maria Avila, who alleged the incident occurred while she was working at his California residence.
According to the lawsuit, Avila was taking out the trash when she was allegedly mauled by a large dog roaming Brown’s backyard. She argued that Brown failed to properly restrain the animal, making him responsible for the injuries she sustained during the attack.
Brown denied those claims throughout the litigation, maintaining that Avila provoked the dog and was responsible for the incident.
During the trial, Avila testified that the attack left her covered in blood and with severe injuries. Brown also testified, explaining that he did not personally call 911 because he feared news of the incident would be leaked to the media. Instead, a member of his team contacted emergency responders.
Avila originally sought $90 million in damages, but the jury ultimately awarded her $13 million.
The judgment marks another significant legal setback for Brown, whose career has continued alongside a series of high-profile legal disputes over the years.
Music legends, Hollywood stars Celebrate Clive Davis’ Extraordinary Legacy
Music legends, Hollywood stars, and political figures gathered Monday in New York to celebrate the life of Clive Davis, the iconic record executive whose career helped shape the sound of modern popular music.
For more than six decades, Davis discovered, mentored and championed artists who would go on to define generations of music. From Whitney Houston and Bruce Springsteen to Alicia Keys, Santana and Kenny G, his influence reached nearly every corner of the industry, making him one of the most respected executives in entertainment history.
Bruce Springsteen, Alicia Keys, Dionne Warwick, Barry Manilow, Stevie Wonder, Jennifer Hudson and Ja Rule were among those attending Davis’ funeral at Central Synagogue in Manhattan. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Gayle King, Hoda Kotb and Adrien Brody were also in attendance.
The private service, which was livestreamed to the public, celebrated a man whose vision helped launch careers, revive legends and introduce generations of listeners to unforgettable music.
Springsteen recalled meeting Davis in 1972 as a little-known 22-year-old musician auditioning for Columbia Records.
“I can’t wait to hear you,” Davis told him.
After the audition, Davis offered just four words that would forever change Springsteen’s career:
“Welcome to Columbia Records.”
“In those few words, he changed my life forever,” Springsteen said.
Reflecting on Davis’ larger-than-life personality, Springsteen described him as “big, bombastic and brave,” adding that he “was born to run everything.”
He also remembered Davis as one of a remarkable generation of record executives—including Berry Gordy, Ahmet Ertegun, Mo Ostin and Jerry Wexler—whose passion and vision helped define American music.
Jennifer Hudson delivered one of the service’s most emotional tributes, performing Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” before transitioning into Whitney Houston’s signature hit, “I Will Always Love You.”
Fighting back tears, Hudson paused to say, “We love you, Clive,” drawing a standing ovation from mourners.
Alicia Keys also became emotional as she remembered meeting Davis for the first time as a teenager.
“You saw something in me that I was just beginning to see in myself,” she read from a letter to her longtime mentor.
“In a world that so often reduces art to commerce, and genius to product, you held the line. You reminded me again and again that what we were doing was about truth and legacy, and about the human heart reaching out to another human heart and saying, ‘You are not alone.'”
Dionne Warwick recalled initially resisting Davis’ suggestion that she collaborate with Barry Manilow on the album “Dionne.” The project ultimately became a platinum success and earned two Grammy Awards.
Manilow shared how Davis encouraged him to record “Brandy,” which evolved into the chart-topping hit “Mandy.”
“He believed in me from the very beginning,” Manilow said.
Originally trained as a lawyer, Davis became one of the most influential executives in recording history, helping launch or reshape the careers of Whitney Houston, Bruce Springsteen, Alicia Keys, Santana, Janis Joplin, Kelly Clarkson, Kenny G and countless others.
Even as the music business evolved through changing technologies and generations of artists, Davis remained one of its most trusted tastemakers, known for recognizing extraordinary talent long before the rest of the industry.
Davis died June 22 at age 94, weeks after being hospitalized with an upper respiratory illness. He is survived by four children, eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
As pallbearers carried his casket from the synagogue, an instrumental version of Whitney Houston’s “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)” filled the sanctuary—a poignant farewell to the executive whose unwavering belief in artists helped create some of the most beloved music of the past six decades.
For more than six decades, Davis discovered, mentored and championed artists who would go on to define generations of music. From Whitney Houston and Bruce Springsteen to Alicia Keys, Santana and Kenny G, his influence reached nearly every corner of the industry, making him one of the most respected executives in entertainment history.
Bruce Springsteen, Alicia Keys, Dionne Warwick, Barry Manilow, Stevie Wonder, Jennifer Hudson and Ja Rule were among those attending Davis’ funeral at Central Synagogue in Manhattan. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Gayle King, Hoda Kotb and Adrien Brody were also in attendance.
The private service, which was livestreamed to the public, celebrated a man whose vision helped launch careers, revive legends and introduce generations of listeners to unforgettable music.
Springsteen recalled meeting Davis in 1972 as a little-known 22-year-old musician auditioning for Columbia Records.
“I can’t wait to hear you,” Davis told him.
After the audition, Davis offered just four words that would forever change Springsteen’s career:
“Welcome to Columbia Records.”
“In those few words, he changed my life forever,” Springsteen said.
Reflecting on Davis’ larger-than-life personality, Springsteen described him as “big, bombastic and brave,” adding that he “was born to run everything.”
He also remembered Davis as one of a remarkable generation of record executives—including Berry Gordy, Ahmet Ertegun, Mo Ostin and Jerry Wexler—whose passion and vision helped define American music.
Jennifer Hudson delivered one of the service’s most emotional tributes, performing Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” before transitioning into Whitney Houston’s signature hit, “I Will Always Love You.”
Fighting back tears, Hudson paused to say, “We love you, Clive,” drawing a standing ovation from mourners.
Alicia Keys also became emotional as she remembered meeting Davis for the first time as a teenager.
“You saw something in me that I was just beginning to see in myself,” she read from a letter to her longtime mentor.
“In a world that so often reduces art to commerce, and genius to product, you held the line. You reminded me again and again that what we were doing was about truth and legacy, and about the human heart reaching out to another human heart and saying, ‘You are not alone.'”
Dionne Warwick recalled initially resisting Davis’ suggestion that she collaborate with Barry Manilow on the album “Dionne.” The project ultimately became a platinum success and earned two Grammy Awards.
Manilow shared how Davis encouraged him to record “Brandy,” which evolved into the chart-topping hit “Mandy.”
“He believed in me from the very beginning,” Manilow said.
Originally trained as a lawyer, Davis became one of the most influential executives in recording history, helping launch or reshape the careers of Whitney Houston, Bruce Springsteen, Alicia Keys, Santana, Janis Joplin, Kelly Clarkson, Kenny G and countless others.
Even as the music business evolved through changing technologies and generations of artists, Davis remained one of its most trusted tastemakers, known for recognizing extraordinary talent long before the rest of the industry.
Davis died June 22 at age 94, weeks after being hospitalized with an upper respiratory illness. He is survived by four children, eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
As pallbearers carried his casket from the synagogue, an instrumental version of Whitney Houston’s “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)” filled the sanctuary—a poignant farewell to the executive whose unwavering belief in artists helped create some of the most beloved music of the past six decades.
Brandy’s Mississippi Hometown Plans Public Celebration
*Brandy will return to McComb, Mississippi, on July 6 as local leaders prepare to honor the singer in the city where her story began, Complex reports.
The free public celebration will take place at 5 p.m. during a special Live at Five event in downtown McComb’s Arts and Entertainment District. The McComb Main Street Association is organizing the program, which will include recognition from the City of McComb and the Mississippi Legislature. Grammy-nominated blues artist Mr. Sipp will perform during the event. A public after-party will follow at Da Daiquiri Factory.
“Welcoming Brandy back home to McComb in this fashion, in the heart of the McComb Downtown Arts and Entertainment District, is exciting,” said Justin Lofton, vice president of the McComb Main Street Association.
Brandon Andrews, executive director of the McComb Main Street Association, said Brandy’s recent Hollywood honor made the timing especially meaningful.
“We are incredibly excited to welcome Brandy back to McComb to celebrate her already legendary career,” said Andrews. “After recently receiving her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, this is the perfect opportunity for her hometown to honor one of its own.”
The upcoming celebration follows several recent milestones for Brandy, including her Hollywood Walk of Fame induction in March and the release of her bestselling memoir, “PHASES.”
*Brandy will return to McComb, Mississippi, on July 6 as local leaders prepare to honor the singer in the city where her story began, Complex reports.
The free public celebration will take place at 5 p.m. during a special Live at Five event in downtown McComb’s Arts and Entertainment District. The McComb Main Street Association is organizing the program, which will include recognition from the City of McComb and the Mississippi Legislature. Grammy-nominated blues artist Mr. Sipp will perform during the event. A public after-party will follow at Da Daiquiri Factory.
“Welcoming Brandy back home to McComb in this fashion, in the heart of the McComb Downtown Arts and Entertainment District, is exciting,” said Justin Lofton, vice president of the McComb Main Street Association.
Brandon Andrews, executive director of the McComb Main Street Association, said Brandy’s recent Hollywood honor made the timing especially meaningful.
“We are incredibly excited to welcome Brandy back to McComb to celebrate her already legendary career,” said Andrews. “After recently receiving her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, this is the perfect opportunity for her hometown to honor one of its own.”
The upcoming celebration follows several recent milestones for Brandy, including her Hollywood Walk of Fame induction in March and the release of her bestselling memoir, “PHASES.”
‘S.W.A.T. Exiles’ Premiere At Starz In September
The highly anticipated “S.W.A.T.” spinoff starring Shemar Moore will premiere Thursday, September 25, on Starz in the United States.
The 10 episode action drama will also debut the same day in select international markets.
One of the more interesting parts of this story is how Sony Pictures Television handled the series.
Rather than waiting to secure a U.S. network, the studio moved forward with production independently before shopping the completed season to buyers.
That strategy paid off. Starz landed the exclusive first U.S. window, while Sony has also secured distribution across every major region worldwide, including Europe, Latin America, Asia-Pacific, Africa, and the Middle East.
There’s also a chance you’ll eventually see “S.W.A.T. Exiles” on Netflix.
Sony is reportedly in discussions for a second streaming window, which makes sense since the original “S.W.A.T.” has built a loyal audience on the platform.
After a high profile mission goes sideways, Daniel “Hondo” Harrelson is pulled out of forced retirement to lead an experimental S.W.A.T. unit made up of talented but unpredictable young recruits.
Shemar celebrated the announcement, saying:
‘S.W.A.T. Exiles’ is coming in hot! I couldn’t be more excited that Starz is bringing this next chapter to audiences in the U.S.
A huge thank you to Sony Pictures Television for believing in this franchise and continuing to invest in what we’ve built together.
What makes this moment even more special is that we’re reaching audiences in all major territories worldwide.
Fans everywhere will get to experience this epic new ride together.
The series also stars Lucy Barrett, Adain Bradley, Zyra Gorecki, Freddy Miyares, and Ronen Rubinstein.
Returning from the original series are Jay Harrington as Deacon Kay and Patrick St. Esprit as Commander Robert Hicks.
David Lim will also reprise his role as Victor Tan in the penultimate episode.
The 10 episode action drama will also debut the same day in select international markets.
One of the more interesting parts of this story is how Sony Pictures Television handled the series.
Rather than waiting to secure a U.S. network, the studio moved forward with production independently before shopping the completed season to buyers.
That strategy paid off. Starz landed the exclusive first U.S. window, while Sony has also secured distribution across every major region worldwide, including Europe, Latin America, Asia-Pacific, Africa, and the Middle East.
There’s also a chance you’ll eventually see “S.W.A.T. Exiles” on Netflix.
Sony is reportedly in discussions for a second streaming window, which makes sense since the original “S.W.A.T.” has built a loyal audience on the platform.
After a high profile mission goes sideways, Daniel “Hondo” Harrelson is pulled out of forced retirement to lead an experimental S.W.A.T. unit made up of talented but unpredictable young recruits.
Shemar celebrated the announcement, saying:
‘S.W.A.T. Exiles’ is coming in hot! I couldn’t be more excited that Starz is bringing this next chapter to audiences in the U.S.
A huge thank you to Sony Pictures Television for believing in this franchise and continuing to invest in what we’ve built together.
What makes this moment even more special is that we’re reaching audiences in all major territories worldwide.
Fans everywhere will get to experience this epic new ride together.
The series also stars Lucy Barrett, Adain Bradley, Zyra Gorecki, Freddy Miyares, and Ronen Rubinstein.
Returning from the original series are Jay Harrington as Deacon Kay and Patrick St. Esprit as Commander Robert Hicks.
David Lim will also reprise his role as Victor Tan in the penultimate episode.
Rapper Twista Pleads Guilty To Tax Evasion On Five Counts
Twista is pleading guilty to five counts of willfully failing to pay income taxes spanning from 2019 through 2023, AllHipHop reports. The Chicago rapper owes more than $440,000 in unpaid taxes dating back to 2011, according to the same outlet.
Fox32chicago also reported that despite earning income through performances, album sales, streaming revenue, and royalties during this period, Twista neglected his tax responsibilities. The IRS and his accountants repeatedly warned him about his increasing tax debt, but he ignored these notices. Furthermore, he arranged agreements with third-party companies to receive advances on future royalty payments, which shielded those funds from IRS collection. Instead of settling his tax bills, he continued making costly purchases, including buying multiple luxury vehicles. Fox32chicago adds that Twista faces up to five years in prison, with a maximum of one year per count, and his sentencing hearing is scheduled for October 22, 2026.
Twista is best known for his 2004 hit single "Slow Jamz" from the album "Kamikaze." The rapper earned nominations for several awards, including the 2005 Grammy Awards for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration for "Slow Jamz" and Best Rap Solo Performance for "Overnight Celebrity." He has been a prominent figure in hip-hop, representing Chicago, Illinois, throughout his career.
This development underscores the serious consequences artists can face for tax evasion, even when they have significant earnings and industry success. Twista joins a list of rappers who have faced legal troubles over unpaid taxes, highlighting the importance of managing financial obligations despite fame and fortune.
Fox32chicago also reported that despite earning income through performances, album sales, streaming revenue, and royalties during this period, Twista neglected his tax responsibilities. The IRS and his accountants repeatedly warned him about his increasing tax debt, but he ignored these notices. Furthermore, he arranged agreements with third-party companies to receive advances on future royalty payments, which shielded those funds from IRS collection. Instead of settling his tax bills, he continued making costly purchases, including buying multiple luxury vehicles. Fox32chicago adds that Twista faces up to five years in prison, with a maximum of one year per count, and his sentencing hearing is scheduled for October 22, 2026.
Twista is best known for his 2004 hit single "Slow Jamz" from the album "Kamikaze." The rapper earned nominations for several awards, including the 2005 Grammy Awards for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration for "Slow Jamz" and Best Rap Solo Performance for "Overnight Celebrity." He has been a prominent figure in hip-hop, representing Chicago, Illinois, throughout his career.
This development underscores the serious consequences artists can face for tax evasion, even when they have significant earnings and industry success. Twista joins a list of rappers who have faced legal troubles over unpaid taxes, highlighting the importance of managing financial obligations despite fame and fortune.
Mayor Zohran Mamdani dedicates 18 NYC streets to each Knicks player after historic championship run
NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced temporary street co-namings honoring all 18 players from the Knicks’ 2026 championship roster.
The blue-and-orange signs stretch across Sixth and Seventh avenues in Manhattan and will remain up for four weeks.
The tribute follows the franchise’s first NBA title since 1973, capped by a dominant playoff run and Finals MVP performance from Jalen Brunson.
Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani is making sure the New York Knicks' long-awaited championship season leaves its mark on the city long after the celebration ends.
On Monday (June 29), the New York mayor announced that all 18 players on the Knicks' 2026 NBA championship roster will be honored with temporary street co-namings across Manhattan. The blue and orange signs, installed along Sixth and Seventh avenues, pair each player's name and jersey number with a corresponding intersection. The signs will remain in place for four weeks.
"This championship is bigger than basketball. It represents what our city is capable of when the odds are stacked against us. For as long as we live, every New Yorker will remember the feeling of our city coming together — not because of tragedy or adversity, but out of joy and happiness," Mamdani said in a press release.
He continued, "This championship belongs to every fan who packed our parks and plazas and every neighbor who high-fived a stranger after another impossible comeback. These street signs are a tribute to the players who delivered the championship generations of fans waited their whole lives to see and the city that stood behind them every step of the way. Long after the confetti is gone, New Yorkers will be able to walk these streets and remember the team that brought our city so much joy. Knicks in five."
Every New York Knicks player now has a place on a Manhattan street
The commemorative signs stretch from Greenwich Village through Midtown, with each intersection matching a player's jersey number:
Jordan Clarkson (#00) — Sixth Avenue and West Houston Street
Dillon Jones (#1) — Sixth Avenue and Bleecker Street
Miles "Deuce" McBride (#2) — Sixth Avenue and Minetta Lane
Josh Hart (#3) — Sixth Avenue and West Third Street
Pacôme Dadiet (#4) — Sixth Avenue and West Fourth Street
Jose Alvarado (#5) — Sixth Avenue and Washington Place
OG Anunoby (#8) — Sixth Avenue and West Eighth Street
Kevin McCullar Jr. (#9) — Sixth Avenue and West Ninth Street
Jalen Brunson (#11) — Seventh Avenue South and West 11th Street
Tyler Kolek (#13) — Seventh Avenue and West 13th Street
Jeremy Sochan (#20) — Seventh Avenue and West 20th Street
Mitchell Robinson (#23) — Seventh Avenue and West 23rd Street
Mikal Bridges (#25) — Seventh Avenue and West 25th Street
Karl-Anthony Towns (#32) — Seventh Avenue and West 32nd Street
Landry Shamet (#44) — Sixth Avenue and West 44th Street
Trey Jemison III (#50) — Seventh Avenue and West 50th Street
Mohamed Diawara (#51) — Seventh Avenue and West 51st Street
Ariel Hukporti (#55) — Seventh Avenue and West 55th Street
How the New York Knicks won their first NBA title in 53 years
The tribute follows one of the most memorable seasons in franchise history. As REVOLT previously reported, the Knicks defeated the San Antonio Spurs 94-90 in Game 5 of the NBA Finals to capture the organization's first championship since 1973 and third NBA title overall. Brunson scored 45 points in the series-clinching victory and earned Finals MVP honors after leading New York to a 4-1 Finals win.
The title capped a dominant postseason in which the Knicks finished 16-3, repeatedly erased double-digit deficits and delivered comeback victories that energized fans throughout all five boroughs. According to the city, those unforgettable moments inspired thousands of New Yorkers to gather in parks, plazas and on sidewalks throughout the playoff run.
"This New York Knicks team brought so much life to our streets during their magical playoff run, so it's only right we return the favor," NYC DOT Commissioner Mike Flynn said in the release. "With each postseason win, more and more New Yorkers came together in the streets, on sidewalks and in plazas to watch the Knicks play and celebrate their improbable comebacks. New Yorkers will never forget this historic championship run or the players that brought them together for the most joyful 10 weeks we've ever experienced."
The blue-and-orange signs stretch across Sixth and Seventh avenues in Manhattan and will remain up for four weeks.
The tribute follows the franchise’s first NBA title since 1973, capped by a dominant playoff run and Finals MVP performance from Jalen Brunson.
Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani is making sure the New York Knicks' long-awaited championship season leaves its mark on the city long after the celebration ends.
On Monday (June 29), the New York mayor announced that all 18 players on the Knicks' 2026 NBA championship roster will be honored with temporary street co-namings across Manhattan. The blue and orange signs, installed along Sixth and Seventh avenues, pair each player's name and jersey number with a corresponding intersection. The signs will remain in place for four weeks.
"This championship is bigger than basketball. It represents what our city is capable of when the odds are stacked against us. For as long as we live, every New Yorker will remember the feeling of our city coming together — not because of tragedy or adversity, but out of joy and happiness," Mamdani said in a press release.
He continued, "This championship belongs to every fan who packed our parks and plazas and every neighbor who high-fived a stranger after another impossible comeback. These street signs are a tribute to the players who delivered the championship generations of fans waited their whole lives to see and the city that stood behind them every step of the way. Long after the confetti is gone, New Yorkers will be able to walk these streets and remember the team that brought our city so much joy. Knicks in five."
Every New York Knicks player now has a place on a Manhattan street
The commemorative signs stretch from Greenwich Village through Midtown, with each intersection matching a player's jersey number:
Jordan Clarkson (#00) — Sixth Avenue and West Houston Street
Dillon Jones (#1) — Sixth Avenue and Bleecker Street
Miles "Deuce" McBride (#2) — Sixth Avenue and Minetta Lane
Josh Hart (#3) — Sixth Avenue and West Third Street
Pacôme Dadiet (#4) — Sixth Avenue and West Fourth Street
Jose Alvarado (#5) — Sixth Avenue and Washington Place
OG Anunoby (#8) — Sixth Avenue and West Eighth Street
Kevin McCullar Jr. (#9) — Sixth Avenue and West Ninth Street
Jalen Brunson (#11) — Seventh Avenue South and West 11th Street
Tyler Kolek (#13) — Seventh Avenue and West 13th Street
Jeremy Sochan (#20) — Seventh Avenue and West 20th Street
Mitchell Robinson (#23) — Seventh Avenue and West 23rd Street
Mikal Bridges (#25) — Seventh Avenue and West 25th Street
Karl-Anthony Towns (#32) — Seventh Avenue and West 32nd Street
Landry Shamet (#44) — Sixth Avenue and West 44th Street
Trey Jemison III (#50) — Seventh Avenue and West 50th Street
Mohamed Diawara (#51) — Seventh Avenue and West 51st Street
Ariel Hukporti (#55) — Seventh Avenue and West 55th Street
How the New York Knicks won their first NBA title in 53 years
The tribute follows one of the most memorable seasons in franchise history. As REVOLT previously reported, the Knicks defeated the San Antonio Spurs 94-90 in Game 5 of the NBA Finals to capture the organization's first championship since 1973 and third NBA title overall. Brunson scored 45 points in the series-clinching victory and earned Finals MVP honors after leading New York to a 4-1 Finals win.
The title capped a dominant postseason in which the Knicks finished 16-3, repeatedly erased double-digit deficits and delivered comeback victories that energized fans throughout all five boroughs. According to the city, those unforgettable moments inspired thousands of New Yorkers to gather in parks, plazas and on sidewalks throughout the playoff run.
"This New York Knicks team brought so much life to our streets during their magical playoff run, so it's only right we return the favor," NYC DOT Commissioner Mike Flynn said in the release. "With each postseason win, more and more New Yorkers came together in the streets, on sidewalks and in plazas to watch the Knicks play and celebrate their improbable comebacks. New Yorkers will never forget this historic championship run or the players that brought them together for the most joyful 10 weeks we've ever experienced."
Rep. Tom Kean Jr. Reveals Depression Diagnosis After Months-Long Absence from Congress
Rep. Tom Kean Jr. is explaining his long absence from Congress. The Republican U.S. representative, representing New Jersey’s 7th congressional district since 2023, was not in attendance in Congress since March 5, nor did he attend any public events.
He vaguely issued a statement citing “a personal medical issue” at the end of April.
“My doctors are confident that I’m on the road to a full recovery,” he later told the New Jersey Globe in May without providing more details about the medical issue.
Now, he’s speaking out. On Tuesday (June 30), the politician disclosed that he was diagnosed with depression and spent some time at a hospital.
“I’m grateful that I accepted help. Asking for help is not a weakness. It is a strength,” he said, via CBS News.
“Now, when people hear the word ‘depression,’ many people think … it means feeling sad, but depression is so much more than that. It is physical, it is emotional, and until you experience it yourself, it is difficult to fully understand how powerful this illness can be,” he said, adding that during his stay in the hospital, he “began to understand not only my diagnosis, but how long depression had been affecting my life.”
The representative added that “there is no timeline for healing, there is no timeline for recovery, only the work of getting better one day at a time.”
Rep. Lauren Boebert responded to the diagnosis to TMZ.
“I think it’s embarrassing still…take care of yourself, get healthy, but who gets to take four months off of work because they’re sad?” she said.
Rep. Tom Kean Jr. is explaining his long absence from Congress. The Republican U.S. representative, representing New Jersey’s 7th congressional district since 2023, was not in attendance in Congress since March 5, nor did he attend any public events.
He vaguely issued a statement citing “a personal medical issue” at the end of April.
“My doctors are confident that I’m on the road to a full recovery,” he later told the New Jersey Globe in May without providing more details about the medical issue.
Now, he’s speaking out. On Tuesday (June 30), the politician disclosed that he was diagnosed with depression and spent some time at a hospital.
“I’m grateful that I accepted help. Asking for help is not a weakness. It is a strength,” he said, via CBS News.
“Now, when people hear the word ‘depression,’ many people think … it means feeling sad, but depression is so much more than that. It is physical, it is emotional, and until you experience it yourself, it is difficult to fully understand how powerful this illness can be,” he said, adding that during his stay in the hospital, he “began to understand not only my diagnosis, but how long depression had been affecting my life.”
The representative added that “there is no timeline for healing, there is no timeline for recovery, only the work of getting better one day at a time.”
Rep. Lauren Boebert responded to the diagnosis to TMZ.
“I think it’s embarrassing still…take care of yourself, get healthy, but who gets to take four months off of work because they’re sad?” she said.
Supreme Court Rejects Trump’s Birthright Citizenship Executive Order in 6-3 Ruling
A Donald Trump executive order is being rejected by the Supreme Court.
The 80-year-old President of the United States issued an executive order at the start of his second term claiming that children born to parents in the U.S. illegally or temporarily are not American citizens, and the Supreme Court just rejected the order on Tuesday (June 30).
“Citizenship, then and now, was the right to have rights — to freely participate in our political community. The Framers of the Fourteenth Amendment extended that promise to ‘every free-born person in this land,’” Chief Justice John Roberts wrote in the court’s 6-3 opinion, via AP, adding, “We keep that promise today.”
The Fourteenth Amendment of the Constitution says, “All persons born or naturalized in the United States and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States.”
“Trump’s attempted assault on the 14th Amendment was dealt a major blow today. This decision is a powerful affirmation of the Constitution and the enduring promise of equality it represents,” said NAACP President Derrick Johnson in a statement.
Dissenters in the vote were Justices Clarence Thomas, Neil Gorsuch and Samuel Alito, per NPR.
The 80-year-old President of the United States issued an executive order at the start of his second term claiming that children born to parents in the U.S. illegally or temporarily are not American citizens, and the Supreme Court just rejected the order on Tuesday (June 30).
“Citizenship, then and now, was the right to have rights — to freely participate in our political community. The Framers of the Fourteenth Amendment extended that promise to ‘every free-born person in this land,’” Chief Justice John Roberts wrote in the court’s 6-3 opinion, via AP, adding, “We keep that promise today.”
The Fourteenth Amendment of the Constitution says, “All persons born or naturalized in the United States and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States.”
“Trump’s attempted assault on the 14th Amendment was dealt a major blow today. This decision is a powerful affirmation of the Constitution and the enduring promise of equality it represents,” said NAACP President Derrick Johnson in a statement.
Dissenters in the vote were Justices Clarence Thomas, Neil Gorsuch and Samuel Alito, per NPR.
Lizzo’s Former Dancers Speak Out Amid New Album’s Poor Reception
Lizzo's fifth studio album, "B-TCH," released early this month, received a lukewarm response, making a challenging return to music for the Grammy-winning singer. Many are speculating about the album's underwhelming performance, with some pointing out Lizzo's involvement in an ongoing lawsuit against her former backup dancers.
Her primary accusers are speaking out about Lizzo's latest album and how it may have impacted her career.
Lizzo's new album, "B-TCH," has struggled to match the success of her previous releases, prompting some critics to describe it as a flop.
The album sold just over 2,600 copies in its first week, along with 2.7 million on-demand streams, with sales plummeting to 650 units the second week. In contrast, her 2022 album, "Special," debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200, with 39,000 copies sold in the first week.
While many factors may have contributed to the album's underwhelming performance, many believe it's partly due to Lizzo's ongoing legal battle with her former dancers, Noelle Rodriguez, Arianna Davis, and Crystal Williams.
The three spoke with CNN, saying they have mixed feelings about the trajectory of Lizzo's career. Regardless of their emotions, they claim their intention in filing the lawsuit was not to "take down" Lizzo. "It was never an intention to take down a plus-size woman of color specifically," Rodriguez said.
Lizzo's former dancers say it isn't their place to talk about the state of the singer's career. Speaking on behalf of the group, Rodriguez said, "I don't really think it's our place to discuss or even have an opinion on how her career is going at this point, when that wasn't even our reason for filing in the first place."
In 2023, Rodriguez, Davis, and Williams filed a lawsuit against Lizzo and her production company, claiming body-shaming, sexual harassment, and workplace hostility. The legal battle is still ongoing.
Rodriguez added that the lawsuit wasn't a "smear campaign" against Lizzo. Rather, they want to hold the singer accountable for the values she has built her public image around.
"I think if anything, in retrospect, I've actually had some sadness in the fact that it has impacted her career," Rodriguez said.
In August 2023, Lizzo, dance captain Shirlene Quigley, and production company Big Grrrl Big Touring, Inc. were named in a lawsuit, in which Rodriguez, Davis, and Williams alleged they were sexually harassed, worked in a hostile environment, and were body-shamed, in addition to other allegations, such as religious and racial harassment, and false imprisonment.
Lizzo clapped back at the accusations, saying the claims were "false" and "outrageous." In 2024, she spoke about the controversy, saying she was "deeply hurt" and completely blindsided by the lawsuit. "These were people that I liked and appreciated as dancers, respected them as dancers. So I was like, 'What?!'" Lizzo said, adamantly denying all the claims.
"The hardest part about all this is that none of these things were true," the singer said
In December 2025, a judge dismissed the dancers' fat-shaming allegations from the lawsuit, which Lizzo considered a small win. "There was no evidence I fired them because they gained weight. They were fired for taking a private recording of me without my consent and sending it off to ex-employees," the singer noted.
However, the majority of the lawsuit will still move forward with the sexual harassment and hostile work environment claims. Lizzo is adamant about fighting the case in court. In a video she posted on TikTok, the singer wrote that she does not plan to settle and "will be fighting every single claim until the truth is out."
The case is currently before the California Court of Appeal, and both parties are awaiting a court date for oral argument.
On the "Proto Pop" podcast, the singer candidly talked about the lukewarm response to her latest album, admitting that she took it to heart. "I think that there was like, 24 hours of my life where I based my success and my worth on a number. And I think that was soul-crushing," she explained.
Even before the album's release, Lizzo took to social media, saying her record label, Atlantic Records, failed to promote it properly. Moreover, Lizzo cited the changing music landscape as one of the reasons behind her album's poor commercial performance.
Despite the challenges, Lizzo noted that she isn't in a rush for people to connect with her music and believes "B-TCH" has some of the "best stuff" she's ever written
Lizzo's fifth studio album, "B-TCH," released early this month, received a lukewarm response, making a challenging return to music for the Grammy-winning singer. Many are speculating about the album's underwhelming performance, with some pointing out Lizzo's involvement in an ongoing lawsuit against her former backup dancers.
Her primary accusers are speaking out about Lizzo's latest album and how it may have impacted her career.
Lizzo's new album, "B-TCH," has struggled to match the success of her previous releases, prompting some critics to describe it as a flop.
The album sold just over 2,600 copies in its first week, along with 2.7 million on-demand streams, with sales plummeting to 650 units the second week. In contrast, her 2022 album, "Special," debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200, with 39,000 copies sold in the first week.
While many factors may have contributed to the album's underwhelming performance, many believe it's partly due to Lizzo's ongoing legal battle with her former dancers, Noelle Rodriguez, Arianna Davis, and Crystal Williams.
The three spoke with CNN, saying they have mixed feelings about the trajectory of Lizzo's career. Regardless of their emotions, they claim their intention in filing the lawsuit was not to "take down" Lizzo. "It was never an intention to take down a plus-size woman of color specifically," Rodriguez said.
Lizzo's former dancers say it isn't their place to talk about the state of the singer's career. Speaking on behalf of the group, Rodriguez said, "I don't really think it's our place to discuss or even have an opinion on how her career is going at this point, when that wasn't even our reason for filing in the first place."
In 2023, Rodriguez, Davis, and Williams filed a lawsuit against Lizzo and her production company, claiming body-shaming, sexual harassment, and workplace hostility. The legal battle is still ongoing.
Rodriguez added that the lawsuit wasn't a "smear campaign" against Lizzo. Rather, they want to hold the singer accountable for the values she has built her public image around.
"I think if anything, in retrospect, I've actually had some sadness in the fact that it has impacted her career," Rodriguez said.
In August 2023, Lizzo, dance captain Shirlene Quigley, and production company Big Grrrl Big Touring, Inc. were named in a lawsuit, in which Rodriguez, Davis, and Williams alleged they were sexually harassed, worked in a hostile environment, and were body-shamed, in addition to other allegations, such as religious and racial harassment, and false imprisonment.
Lizzo clapped back at the accusations, saying the claims were "false" and "outrageous." In 2024, she spoke about the controversy, saying she was "deeply hurt" and completely blindsided by the lawsuit. "These were people that I liked and appreciated as dancers, respected them as dancers. So I was like, 'What?!'" Lizzo said, adamantly denying all the claims.
"The hardest part about all this is that none of these things were true," the singer said
In December 2025, a judge dismissed the dancers' fat-shaming allegations from the lawsuit, which Lizzo considered a small win. "There was no evidence I fired them because they gained weight. They were fired for taking a private recording of me without my consent and sending it off to ex-employees," the singer noted.
However, the majority of the lawsuit will still move forward with the sexual harassment and hostile work environment claims. Lizzo is adamant about fighting the case in court. In a video she posted on TikTok, the singer wrote that she does not plan to settle and "will be fighting every single claim until the truth is out."
The case is currently before the California Court of Appeal, and both parties are awaiting a court date for oral argument.
On the "Proto Pop" podcast, the singer candidly talked about the lukewarm response to her latest album, admitting that she took it to heart. "I think that there was like, 24 hours of my life where I based my success and my worth on a number. And I think that was soul-crushing," she explained.
Even before the album's release, Lizzo took to social media, saying her record label, Atlantic Records, failed to promote it properly. Moreover, Lizzo cited the changing music landscape as one of the reasons behind her album's poor commercial performance.
Despite the challenges, Lizzo noted that she isn't in a rush for people to connect with her music and believes "B-TCH" has some of the "best stuff" she's ever written
Ray J and Orlando Brown Take Their Beef to a Chaotic Fight Press Conference
Ray J and Orlando Brown are heading for a boxing ring on August 15th, and their first press conference turned into a spectacle that had almost nothing to do with boxing.
The two are scheduled to fight in Atlanta, and instead of the usual sizing up and staredowns, the promo went off the rails almost instantly. What started as standard talk about who was going to win curdled fast into a stream of graphic, sexually charged insults, most of them coming from Ray J. The hosts spent a good chunk of the sit down begging both men to tone down the sexual talk, and it barely worked. By the end, security had to physically pull them apart.
We are keeping the specifics light on purpose, because most of what Ray J said is far too explicit to print. The short version is that he leaned all the way into shock value, firing off threats and taunts that had the room half laughing and half stunned. Orlando Brown mostly tried to steer things back to the fight, accusing Ray J of chasing a comeback and questioning whether he can actually box. Ray J was not interested in staying on topic.
Underneath the circus, the Ray J and Orlando Brown matchup is a real fight on a real card. It lands on the undercard of Claressa Shields, who is defending her world titles against Kaye Scott at State Farm Arena in Atlanta. The night is being run by Zeus and Salita Promotions, and it leans hard on celebrity power to move tickets. Tesehki and Big Lex from Baddies are also fighting that night, which tells you exactly what kind of event this is. Serious championship boxing up top, reality TV energy underneath.
The part of the Ray J and Orlando Brown story that deserves more attention than the sexual jokes is Ray J’s health. He is stepping back into the ring only weeks after a genuinely scary stretch. In May he was knocked out by Supa Hot Fire, then checked himself into a Las Vegas hospital about two hours later, where doctors looked into a possible concussion and an abnormal heart rhythm. Earlier this year he had already been dealing with pneumonia and heart problems. So while the build up is being sold as pure comedy, there is a real question in the background about whether he should be taking punches at all right now.
Ray J is not backing off. He announced the return himself, made it clear he plans to keep fighting, and used the presser to confirm that Adrian Broner is helping him train. That name raised eyebrows on its own, since Broner has had his own very public struggles, but Ray J shouted him out as one of his main trainers and kept it moving. Confidence has never been his problem.
Orlando Brown came in with a completely different strategy. He kept circling back to Ray J’s fame, framing the whole thing as Ray J needing him for relevance. He leaned on the Brandy connection too, repeatedly reminding everyone that Ray J is best known as Brandy’s little brother. It is the kind of jab designed to get under the skin, and it clearly landed, because Ray J only got louder and more graphic every time it came up.
For anyone who has followed either man, none of this is shocking. Ray J has spent the last few years fully committed to celebrity boxing, showing up to these events ready to make noise. Orlando Brown, the former child star from That’s So Raven, has built a second act almost entirely out of unpredictable, candid interviews that go viral. Put the two of them at one table with microphones and no filter, and chaos was always the likely outcome. The only surprise is how quickly it got there.
The Ray J and Orlando Brown press conference is already doing exactly what it was designed to do, which is travel. Clips spread across social media within hours, and the reaction split between people who found it hilarious and people who found it uncomfortable to watch. Celebrity boxing runs on this formula. The wilder the promo, the bigger the audience on fight night, and both men understand that game completely.
Still, the spectacle cannot fully drown out the health story. Ray J’s hospitalization was not a rumor or a bit. It was a real medical scare involving his heart, and heart complications are not something you shake off with a few weeks of training and a loud press conference. Zeus and Salita are banking on star power, and the celebrity names will absolutely pull viewers, but the honest question is whether a man who was just hospitalized with heart issues belongs on any fight card this soon.
When the Ray J and Orlando Brown fight finally happens on August 15th, it will be one small piece of a much bigger night headlined by an actual champion in Claressa Shields. Whether it turns out to be competitive or just another viral celebrity moment is almost beside the point. The press conference already gave the internet what it wanted, and the two of them have five more weeks to make it even louder before anyone throws a real punch.
The two are scheduled to fight in Atlanta, and instead of the usual sizing up and staredowns, the promo went off the rails almost instantly. What started as standard talk about who was going to win curdled fast into a stream of graphic, sexually charged insults, most of them coming from Ray J. The hosts spent a good chunk of the sit down begging both men to tone down the sexual talk, and it barely worked. By the end, security had to physically pull them apart.
We are keeping the specifics light on purpose, because most of what Ray J said is far too explicit to print. The short version is that he leaned all the way into shock value, firing off threats and taunts that had the room half laughing and half stunned. Orlando Brown mostly tried to steer things back to the fight, accusing Ray J of chasing a comeback and questioning whether he can actually box. Ray J was not interested in staying on topic.
Underneath the circus, the Ray J and Orlando Brown matchup is a real fight on a real card. It lands on the undercard of Claressa Shields, who is defending her world titles against Kaye Scott at State Farm Arena in Atlanta. The night is being run by Zeus and Salita Promotions, and it leans hard on celebrity power to move tickets. Tesehki and Big Lex from Baddies are also fighting that night, which tells you exactly what kind of event this is. Serious championship boxing up top, reality TV energy underneath.
The part of the Ray J and Orlando Brown story that deserves more attention than the sexual jokes is Ray J’s health. He is stepping back into the ring only weeks after a genuinely scary stretch. In May he was knocked out by Supa Hot Fire, then checked himself into a Las Vegas hospital about two hours later, where doctors looked into a possible concussion and an abnormal heart rhythm. Earlier this year he had already been dealing with pneumonia and heart problems. So while the build up is being sold as pure comedy, there is a real question in the background about whether he should be taking punches at all right now.
Ray J is not backing off. He announced the return himself, made it clear he plans to keep fighting, and used the presser to confirm that Adrian Broner is helping him train. That name raised eyebrows on its own, since Broner has had his own very public struggles, but Ray J shouted him out as one of his main trainers and kept it moving. Confidence has never been his problem.
Orlando Brown came in with a completely different strategy. He kept circling back to Ray J’s fame, framing the whole thing as Ray J needing him for relevance. He leaned on the Brandy connection too, repeatedly reminding everyone that Ray J is best known as Brandy’s little brother. It is the kind of jab designed to get under the skin, and it clearly landed, because Ray J only got louder and more graphic every time it came up.
For anyone who has followed either man, none of this is shocking. Ray J has spent the last few years fully committed to celebrity boxing, showing up to these events ready to make noise. Orlando Brown, the former child star from That’s So Raven, has built a second act almost entirely out of unpredictable, candid interviews that go viral. Put the two of them at one table with microphones and no filter, and chaos was always the likely outcome. The only surprise is how quickly it got there.
The Ray J and Orlando Brown press conference is already doing exactly what it was designed to do, which is travel. Clips spread across social media within hours, and the reaction split between people who found it hilarious and people who found it uncomfortable to watch. Celebrity boxing runs on this formula. The wilder the promo, the bigger the audience on fight night, and both men understand that game completely.
Still, the spectacle cannot fully drown out the health story. Ray J’s hospitalization was not a rumor or a bit. It was a real medical scare involving his heart, and heart complications are not something you shake off with a few weeks of training and a loud press conference. Zeus and Salita are banking on star power, and the celebrity names will absolutely pull viewers, but the honest question is whether a man who was just hospitalized with heart issues belongs on any fight card this soon.
When the Ray J and Orlando Brown fight finally happens on August 15th, it will be one small piece of a much bigger night headlined by an actual champion in Claressa Shields. Whether it turns out to be competitive or just another viral celebrity moment is almost beside the point. The press conference already gave the internet what it wanted, and the two of them have five more weeks to make it even louder before anyone throws a real punch.
AND FINALLY FROM “THE CRAZY PEOPLE SHOPPING AT WALMART” FILES
Courtesy of P.O.Wm
It's HOT even at WalMart
At Least he wore a towel lol
HAVE A GREAT DAY ALL!!!
EFREM
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