Rapper Toosii has left the LSU Tigers football and returned his full attention to music, closing an unexpected chapter that briefly united hip-hop and college football. WBRZ broke the news on Wednesday. The 26-year-old artist stunned fans in March when he joined LSU as a wide receiver. The move sparked debate across social media and sports circles, with many questioning whether one of rap’s rising stars could successfully balance a music career with Division I football. Rapper Toosii has chosen to leave the LSU football program and resume his musical career, Lane Kiffin said on In the Bayou with Tyrann Mathieu, partially citing the fact that he inked a deal with a gambling company.https://t.co/Yj4JKccsR0 — WBRZ News (@WBRZ) June 17, 2026 Speaking on the podcast In the Bayou with former NFL standout Tyrann Mathieu, LSU head coach Lane Kiffin said business opportunities and NCAA-related restrictions ultimately influenced Toosii’s decision. “There were limitations on what he can make and do,” Kiffin said, describing the challenges of maintaining football eligibility while managing an established entertainment career. Kiffin also pointed to a commercial partnership involving a gambling company as another obstacle. While he did not identify the company, he suggested the agreement created complications under existing college athletics rules. “He signed with one of the gambling company things where you do commercials for them,” Kiffin said. Rapper Toosii Leaves LSU Tigers Football To Return To Music Career The development arrives at a time when college sports continue to wrestle with evolving questions surrounding endorsements, athlete compensation and gambling-related partnerships. For an artist with a thriving career, those restrictions presented difficult choices. Before stepping onto the football field, Toosii had already secured his place in hip-hop. The North Carolina native broke through with the hit song Favorite Song, a record that generated hundreds of millions of streams and helped elevate him into rap’s mainstream conversation. Despite the short-lived experiment, Kiffin rejected any suggestion that Toosii joined the program for publicity. “I really enjoyed being around him. It wasn’t a stunt at all,” Kiffin said. “He really wanted to see if he could do it.” Those remarks underscore the seriousness behind Toosii’s pursuit. Rather than a promotional campaign, Kiffin portrayed it as a genuine attempt by a successful rapper to test himself in another arena. For now, that journey has ended. Toosii returns to music with a renewed focus, while his brief stint at LSU stands as a rare intersection of hip-hop ambition and college football opportunity.

HOT 97 Summer Jam is known for bringing some of the biggest names in music to one stage, and this year, fans will get to experience one of R&B’s most captivating voices as Mariah The Scientist joins the lineup. Born Mariah Amani Buckles in Atlanta, Georgia, Mariah The Scientist has quickly become one of the most exciting artists in contemporary R&B. Before music became her full-time career, she attended St. John’s University in New York, where she studied biology and originally planned to pursue a career in medicine. However, after discovering her passion for songwriting and recording, she left school to focus on music and never looked back. Since emerging with her debut EP To Die For in 2018, Mariah has built a loyal fan base through her emotionally honest songwriting, distinctive vocals, and unique storytelling. Her major-label debut album MASTER helped establish her as one of R&B’s most promising new voices, while subsequent projects including RY RY WORLD and To Be Eaten Alive further showcased her growth as an artist. Mariah reached new heights in 2025 with the release of her fourth studio album, Hearts Sold Separately. The project earned her first No. 1 album on Billboard’s Top R&B Albums chart and featured breakout records including “Burning Blue” and “Is It a Crime” with Kali Uchis. Both songs became her first Billboard Hot 100 entries as a lead artist, marking a major milestone in her career. Her momentum has continued throughout 2026. Mariah recently performed at Governors Ball in New York and was honored with the Rising Star Award at Billboard’s Women in Music event, further cementing her status as one of R&B’s fastest-rising stars. Now, she’s bringing that energy to HOT 97 Summer Jam. Known for fan favorites like “Spread Thin,” “2 You,” “Burning Blue,” and “Is It a Crime,” Mariah The Scientist’s performance is set to be one of the standout moments of the festival. With her unique blend of vulnerability, storytelling, and modern R&B production, she continues to push the genre forward while connecting deeply with audiences around the world. Don’t miss your chance to see Mariah The Scientist live at HOT 97 Summer Jam as she joins an unforgettable lineup for one of hip-hop and R&B’s biggest events of the year. Get your tickets here. View this post on Instagram

A federal judge has allowed publisher Eight Mile Style to move forward with a copyright infringement lawsuit seeking more than $109 million against Meta Platforms Inc., rejecting the technology company’s attempt to dismiss claims involving hundreds of songs associated with rapper Eminem’s catalog. In a June 16 order, U.S. District Judge Brandy R. McMillion ruled that Eight Mile plausibly alleged direct copyright infringement by Meta through the inclusion of 243 copyrighted compositions in the music libraries of Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp. Eminem Music Publisher Can Pursue $109 Million Meta Licensing Lawsuit, Judge Ruleshttps://t.co/xI8BWpsARM — billboard (@billboard) June 17, 2026 The lawsuit, filed by Eight Mile Style, alleges Meta reproduced and stored copyrighted works without obtaining valid licenses. The publisher owns rights to numerous compositions recorded by Eminem, including the Academy Award-winning song “Lose Yourself.” Meta argued the complaint relied on broad allegations and failed to identify actionable infringement. The company also challenged Eight Mile’s request for statutory damages, which could exceed $109 million if calculated at the maximum amount permitted under federal copyright law. Judge McMillion found the allegations sufficient to survive dismissal. “Plaintiff alleges that Meta placed all 243 of the aforementioned works in the respective music libraries of all three of its platforms,” McMillion wrote. “Accepted as true, this fact can plausibly be construed as constituting reproduction of the copyrighted work.” Rapper Eminem’s Eight Mile Style Allowed To Sue Meta For $109 Million, Per Judge The court further noted that unauthorized storage of copyrighted compositions may constitute infringement because copyright owners hold the exclusive right to reproduce their works. While Eight Mile secured a significant victory on its direct infringement claims, the court dismissed its secondary infringement allegations. Those claims accused Meta of inducing users to incorporate unauthorized music into social media content. McMillion concluded that Eight Mile failed to identify specific infringing user posts or demonstrate that Meta actively encouraged copyright violations. “While Meta may encourage its users to use the platforms’ tools, the court is unwilling to equate an encouragement to use the tools with an encouragement to infringe,” the judge wrote. The dismissal leaves open the possibility that Eight Mile could seek to amend its complaint. The case now advances to discovery, where the parties will exchange documents, testimony and other evidence. Neither Eight Mile nor Meta publicly commented on the ruling. Although Eminem’s music catalog is central to the dispute, the Grammy-winning artist is not a named party. The litigation could nonetheless shape future copyright licensing disputes involving major social media platforms and music publishers.

David Oyelowo went on Godfrey’s podcast and broke down exactly how he pulls off an American accent — and his explanation included the word “slavery.” The Mornings with Mero crew reacts to the viral clip, his public apology, and the bigger debate around British actors taking Black American roles. Plus, the convo turns into a whole discussion on accents, code-switching, Spanglish, and growing up speaking a different language at home. Topics covered: Oyelowo’s “put a little slavery in it” comment — comedian bit or L?The public apology breakdownBritish actors bypassing Black American talentSpanglish, Yoruglish, and bilingual upbringingsCode-switching and thinking in another language

Russell Simmons must continue defending a sexual assault lawsuit in New York after a state court rejected his effort to dismiss claims brought by a former Def Jam Recordings executive. The ruling states that the alleged conduct falls within the court’s jurisdiction despite the music mogul’s residence in Indonesia. In a June 16 decision, New York Supreme Court Justice Adam Silvera held that claims filed by an anonymous plaintiff identified as Jane Doe may proceed under New York law. The lawsuit alleges Simmons raped the former Def Jam employee during the 1990s at his Manhattan apartment while she worked in the label’s music video department. Russell Simmons Must Face Def Jam Exec’s Rape Lawsuit Despite Living in Indonesia, Judge Ruleshttps://t.co/EGCYGRFN0d — billboard (@billboard) June 18, 2026 The ruling follows an earlier setback for Doe in federal court, where a judge found Simmons, who has lived in Indonesia since 2018, was beyond that court’s jurisdiction. Doe subsequently refiled her claims in state court. Silvera concluded that New York courts may exercise jurisdiction because the alleged assault occurred within the state. “The complaint alleges the defendant committed the tort of rape in New York state,” Silvera wrote. “[In New York], a court may exercise personal jurisdiction over any non-domiciliary who commits a tortious act within the state.” Russell Simmons Can Still Be Sued By Def Jam Recordings Exec While Living In Indonesia, Judge Rules The court also declined to dismiss the case based on a 1997 severance agreement that Simmons’ attorneys argue released any potential claims against him. Doe’s legal team contends the document is invalid and alleges her signature was forged. Silvera found that a “genuine dispute as to its authenticity” exists. It is determined that evidence must be developed before the court can decide whether the agreement is enforceable. The litigation now moves into discovery, where both parties will exchange documents, conduct depositions and gather evidence. The court has scheduled an August conference to establish a case-management schedule. Neither Simmons’ representatives nor attorneys for Doe publicly commented on the ruling. The lawsuit was filed under New York’s Adult Survivors Act, which temporarily revived otherwise time-barred sexual assault claims. Simmons has repeatedly denied allegations of sexual misconduct and has maintained his innocence. In court filings, Simmons’ attorneys said he intends to challenge. They described as “untrue and unproven allegations” and seek to clear his name as the case proceeds.

Drill rapper Fivio Foreign wants to be apart of the upcoming parade to celebrate the New York Knicks’ championship. Fresh off the New York Knicks’ 2026 NBA championship victory, the Brooklyn native took to social media with a direct message aimed at parade organizers. The rapper made it clear he wants a role in the city’s championship celebration. “Idk who need to hear this but I better b performing in that parade in NY on Thursday ??” Fivio wrote. Idk who need to hear this but I better b performing in that parade in NY on Thursday — Fivio Foreign (@FivioForeign) June 16, 2026 The post quickly gained traction online as Knicks fans celebrated the franchise’s long-awaited title. While no official entertainment lineup has been announced, Fivio’s request immediately sparked discussion across social media. The timing makes sense. Few artists are more closely tied to New York’s current rap scene than Fivio Foreign. The drill star has built his career on records that reflect the energy, culture, and pride of the five boroughs. As the city prepares to honor its championship team, many supporters believe a hometown artist would be a fitting addition to the festivities. Drill Rapper Fivio Foreign Wants To Perform At New York Knicks’ Parade The Knicks parade is scheduled for June 18, with thousands expected to flood Lower Manhattan. Players, coaches, celebrities, and lifelong fans are set to celebrate a championship run that has electrified New York. For Fivio, the opportunity would represent more than another performance. It would place him at the center of one of the biggest sports moments the city has witnessed in decades. His public appeal arrives as social media remains flooded with Knicks-related content. Fans have spent days sharing championship reactions, parade plans, and tributes to the team. Fivio’s post has now become part of that conversation. Whether organizers answer the call remains unknown. Still, the rapper has already made his intentions clear. If New York is throwing a championship party, Fivio Foreign wants a microphone. For now, Knicks fans are waiting to see whether the Brooklyn drill heavyweight gets his wish and earns a spot at the city’s biggest celebration of the summer.

Bow Wow used his Instagram Story to push a potential Verzuz music showdown between R&B groups B2K and Pretty Ricky, framing it as both a challenge and a call to action. His post followed leaked screenshots of a B2K group chat that sparked debate about who would win in a live Verzuz battle. Inside the chat, the conversation starts light but quickly turns competitive. Raz-B sets the tone with, “Pretty Ricky vs. B2K. Who winning this Verzuz?” Lil’ Fizz responds with confidence, writing, “Y’all know damn well…” while Omarion takes a more balanced stance, acknowledging that Pretty Ricky “do have some fire records.” Bow Wow wants Pretty Ricky & B2K to have a Verzuz battle during BET awards weekend. Who wins this ? pic.twitter.com/CMAoWN5UAr — 2Cool2Blog (@2Cool2Blog) June 17, 2026 That respect points to the catalog on the other side, including Pretty Ricky staples like “Grind With Me” and “On the Hotline.” Still, Fizz keeps the energy playful, adding, “But can they still fit them clothes?” The jab leans into early-2000s R&B nostalgia while still backing B2K’s confidence. The tone shifts when J-Boog steps in with, “Legends don’t text. They show up. Verzuz.” Omarion follows with, “Say less,” and the group locks in with, “Let’s go then” and “Let’s make it happen fellas.” What started as speculation turns into intent. Rapper Bow Wow Poses B2K vs. Pretty Ricky Verzuz During BET Weekend That’s where Bow Wow enters the conversation. A frequent collaborator and tourmate of B2K, Bow Wow uses his platform to escalate things. “The group text msg is cute but let’s get to the smoke!” he wrote, pushing for a real event instead of online talk. He then proposed BET Weekend as the ideal stage for the matchup. This year’s BET Awards will be held next week in Los Angeles, California. By comparing himself to UFC president Dana White, Bow Wow positions himself as the promoter trying to make the fight happen. “What group really ran sh*t?” he asked, turning the idea into a cultural referendum on which act defined 2000s R&B more. The moment even drew a reaction from Pretty Ricky, who responded, “LOL @VerzuzTV?”—signaling awareness of the challenge and fueling speculation that the idea may have real legs. What began as a group chat has now evolved into a public bidding war for one of R&B’s most anticipated hypothetical Verzuz battles.

Boxing icon Floyd Mayweather Jr. has publicly addressed the wave of media attention surrounding felony charges filed against him in Clark County, Nevada, framing the coverage as a byproduct of his enduring celebrity rather than a threat to his reputation. In an Instagram post shared Wednesday, the undefeated former world champion posted a meme stating, “Good press, bad press, facts or fiction…. Pick your poison. Every headline keeps my name in circulation and everything in motion.” View this post on Instagram The post arrived days after reports surfaced that Mayweather faces felony allegations related to a luxury watch transaction in Las Vegas. Prosecutors allege the boxing star passed a $200,000 check despite insufficient funds in the account. Mayweather has not publicly addressed the substance of those allegations. Instead, his social media statement focused on the broader impact of public scrutiny and media coverage. “Lies and negative news always travel faster than the truth,” Mayweather wrote. “That’s just the way things work.” The former champion suggested that controversy often attracts greater public attention than factual developments. He further argued that criticism frequently accompanies high-profile success. Boxing Icon Floyd Mayweather Jr. Counters Headlines About Felony Charges In Clark County Over Allegedly Passing Bad Checks “Unhappy people love bad news,” Mayweather wrote. “I love stories they think are gonna tear the strongest creature on earth down a BLACK man.” The comments appear to cast the recent headlines as part of a familiar pattern faced by prominent public figures. Mayweather has spent decades operating under intense public scrutiny while building one of the most lucrative careers in sports history. His post also underscored a business philosophy he has long embraced. Rather than distancing himself from the publicity, Mayweather characterized continued media attention as commercially beneficial. “At the end of the day, my name staying in the media is still my name staying in the media,” he wrote. “Attention is attention.” Mayweather added that his priorities remain focused on “family, generational wealth and staying out of other people business that’s not my own.” He concluded with a direct message to media outlets and bloggers covering the case. “So please, keep posting. More Blogs, More Lies… Free Promotion and I gladly welcome Every Line!” The remarks do not address the merits of the Clark County charges. Instead, they signal Mayweather’s intention to project confidence as legal proceedings move forward. For now, the Hall of Fame boxer appears determined to treat the heightened scrutiny as another chapter in a career built on visibility, controversy and public fascination.

Comedic actor Faizon Love was taken into custody this week in connection with a long-running Florida paternity and child support dispute after a court found him in contempt and ordered him to serve jail time. TMZ broke the news on Wednesday. According to booking records, Love was arrested Tuesday in Hillsborough County and booked into a detention facility in Tampa, Florida, on two contempt-of-court counts. The arrest stems from litigation involving Tiffany Lee, who alleges the actor owes substantial child support obligations. View this post on Instagram Court filings indicate a judge previously held Love in contempt after determining he failed to comply with court orders related to the case. The court subsequently directed him to surrender for a 90-day jail sentence, warning that failure to do so could result in arrest. Love sought relief from the court earlier this year, arguing that he lacked the financial means to satisfy claims that he owed approximately $250,000 in support payments. In filings submitted to the court, Love asserted that his earnings had declined dramatically and that he was experiencing significant financial hardship. The actor reported that his highest gross annual income during the previous five years was approximately $13,000. He further stated that he earned no income during the past year. Love also cited a medical incident that allegedly prevented him from attending a scheduled hearing in April. Actor Faizon Love Arrested In Tampa, Florida Court Over Failure To Pay Child Support To Baby Mom, Tiffany Love Despite those representations, the court allowed the contempt proceedings to move forward. The judge ultimately concluded that Love had not complied with the court’s directives and ordered him into custody. The dispute marks the latest legal challenge for Love, whose acting credits include roles in Friday, The Replacements and Elf. Neither Love nor representatives for Tiffany Lee have publicly commented on the arrest. The case now returns to the court’s docket as the parties continue litigating issues surrounding child support compliance and enforcement. The news surrounds the development of the fourth and final Friday film, starring Ice Cube and Mike Epps. No word if Faizon Love will be reprising his role as Big Worm yet. Further hearings are expected as the matter continues in Hillsborough County.

Hip Hop star Drake and his OVO (October’s Very Own) are preparing to be in partnership with licensing giant Authentic Brands Group, according to Puck. While discussions remain ongoing, the potential transaction signals how far OVO has evolved beyond music into a global lifestyle enterprise. BREAKING: Drake is reportedly selling a 50% stake in OVO to Authentic Brands Group Authentic is the licensing giant behind brands like Reebok, Champion, Forever 21, Brooks, and Sports Illustrated, while also managing the rights to cultural icons like Elvis Presley, Marilyn… pic.twitter.com/R4jWP3VZaQ — JustFreshKicks (@JustFreshKicks) June 17, 2026 Founded as an extension of Drake’s creative vision, OVO has grown into one of the most recognizable artist-led fashion brands in the world. The Toronto-based imprint built its reputation through premium streetwear, limited releases, and strategic collaborations. Partnerships with the National Hockey League, National Football League, and Looney Tunes have expanded the company’s reach beyond music. Authentic Brands Group would bring extensive licensing expertise to any partnership. The company oversees major consumer brands, including Champion, Sports Illustrated, and Reebok. Its portfolio also includes the intellectual property rights of cultural icons such as Shaquille O’Neal, Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley, and Muhammad Ali. Hip Hop Star Drake Plans To Sell 50% of OVO (October’s Very Own) Stake To Authentic Brands Group Industry analysts view Authentic as a leader in brand expansion, licensing, and retail distribution. A partnership could unlock new opportunities for OVO across apparel, footwear, entertainment, and international merchandising. Neither side has disclosed financial terms, and no valuation has been confirmed. However, OVO’s sustained growth, strong consumer loyalty, and global recognition suggest the company could command a significant price. For Drake, the talks represent more than a potential investment. They underscore OVO’s transformation from a music-affiliated clothing label into a major cultural business. If a deal materializes, it could become one of the most significant corporate transactions tied to an artist-owned brand and position OVO for its next phase of worldwide expansion.