Puka Nacua Faces Lawsuit Over Allegations of Antisemitism and Assault
Los Angeles Rams receiver Puka Nacua is embroiled in legal troubles as he faces a lawsuit for assault and battery, filed by Madison Atiabi. The lawsuit, which emerged this week in Los Angeles, accuses Nacua of making an antisemitic remark and physically assaulting Atiabi on New Year's Eve. According to reports from TMZ, the civil suit also includes claims of gender violence and negligence. Atiabi alleges that during their time together in Century City, Nacua made a distressing antisemitic comment. Later that night, she claims he bit her shoulder, leaving visible teeth marks, and also bit her friend's thumb. Nacua’s attorney, Levi McCathern, has vehemently denied the allegations, characterizing the bites as mere “horseplay.” This incident follows a previous controversy where Nacua apologized for an antisemitic gesture made during an internet livestream in December. In his Instagram apology, he expressed ignorance of the gesture's implications and stated, “I do not stand for any form of racism, bigotry or hate of another group of people.” On the field, Nacua has been a standout player, having been drafted by the Rams out of BYU in 2023. He led the league with 129 catches for 1,715 yards and 10 touchdowns last season, and continued his success in the playoffs with 24 catches for 332 yards and two TDs. As he becomes eligible for a contract extension this offseason, speculation surrounds his potential to secure a high-paying deal, although the Rams have not announced any progress on negotiations.
Source: The Independent Sport - 2026-03-26