Chris Brown Charged in U.K. Over 2023 Nightclub Assault

R&B superstar Chris Brown is facing serious legal challenges overseas. The artist was officially charged with grievous bodily harm with intent on May 15, 2025, in the United Kingdom following his arrest in Manchester. The charge stems from an alleged violent incident that took place at Tape nightclub in Mayfair, London, in February 2023.

According to court documents and multiple reports, the alleged victim is music producer Abe Diaw, who claims Brown struck him multiple times with a Don Julio 1942 tequila bottle before punching and kicking him while he was on the ground. The reported attack was captured on CCTV and took place in a crowded VIP area of the club.

Arrest and Court Appearance

Brown was arrested at a Manchester hotel shortly after arriving in England via private jet. On May 16, he appeared before Manchester Magistrates’ Court, where District Judge Joanne Hirst denied bail, citing the severity of the allegations. Brown will remain in custody until his next court date at Southwark Crown Court in London on June 13.

Adele Kelly, Deputy Chief Crown Prosecutor for CPS London North, confirmed the charge and stated, “Case proceedings are active, and Mr. Brown has the right to a fair trial.” She also urged the public to refrain from posting commentary online that could potentially prejudice the case.

Civil Lawsuit & Alleged Victim’s Statement

This criminal charge follows a civil lawsuit filed by Diaw in 2023, in which he sought £12 million (approx. $16 million USD) in damages for the alleged assault. According to Diaw’s attorney Ryan J. Daneshrad, the injuries sustained were “serious” and legal efforts are ongoing. In a statement to TMZ, Daneshrad emphasized that they are “pursuing all legal remedies to hold [Brown] accountable.”
Impact on Breezy Bowl XX Tour

The legal battle may also have major repercussions for Brown’s highly anticipated “Breezy Bowl XX” world tour, scheduled to begin in Amsterdam on June 8, 2025. Notably, Brown is due in court in London on June 13, the same day as a planned performance in Frankfurt, Germany—raising serious questions about the tour’s viability.

Chris Brown’s Legal History

This isn’t the first time the Grammy-winning artist has faced legal trouble. Brown’s criminal record includes a 2009 felony assault conviction involving Rihanna and several other incidents over the years. The current charges represent one of the most serious accusations since that time.

What Is Next For Breezy?

As of now, Chris Brown has not publicly commented on the charges. With a court date looming and a global tour on the line, the music industry—and fans around the world—are closely watching how this unfolds.

Stay tuned for updates as the case develops as the iconic singer has also been denied bail. He is currently remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear at Southwark Crown Court in London on June 13, 2025.