Rams receiver Puka Nacua faces lawsuit over alleged antisemitic remark
Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua is facing a civil lawsuit alleging he made an unprovoked antisemitic remark and bit a woman on New Year’s Eve.
The lawsuit, filed by Madison Atiabi in Century City, cites gender violence, assault, battery, and negligence.
Court documents state the plaintiff felt emotionally distressed after the NFL star allegedly used a highly offensive slur directed at Jewish people.
Allegations of physical assault
Atiabi further claims she was travelling in a car with the American football player when he forcibly bit her left shoulder.
The filing alleges the incident left a visible, circular imprint of his teeth on her body.
It is also claimed the 23-year-old bit the thumb of the plaintiff’s friend with enough force to cause acute pain.
A request for a temporary restraining order against the record-breaking wideout has reportedly been denied.
Lawyer describes claims as blackmail
Levi McCathern, the attorney representing the Pro Bowler, strongly denied the antisemitic allegations to the Los Angeles Times.
The lawyer described the physical biting accusations as mere horseplay.
“Our office was contacted with demands of millions of dollars in exchange for not publicizing these allegations,” Levi McCathern told TMZ.
“This is not a legitimate claim — it is blackmail.”
McCathern indicated he intends to file a defamation lawsuit against Atiabi in response to the damaging statements.
Previous controversy
This legal action follows a recent incident in December where the second-year receiver issued a public apology.
The former BYU standout had performed a gesture on an internet livestream that perpetuated harmful stereotypes against the Jewish community.
At the time, he stated he was unaware of the antisemitic themes associated with the action suggested by two streamers.
The Los Angeles franchise subsequently released a statement condemning all forms of antisemitism, prejudice, and hostility.