Shannon Sharpe, the former NFL star and media personality, is confronting serious allegations from a former girlfriend, but he maintains his innocence. The woman has filed a $50 million lawsuit, accusing Sharpe of rape and assault. In response, Sharpe has denied these claims through his attorney, Lanny J. Davis, and in a personal video statement.

“Mr. Sharpe categorically denies all allegations of coercion or misconduct, especially the egregious accusation of ‘rape’,” Davis stated. “He views this as a blatant attempt at blackmail and is prepared to combat these unfounded claims vigorously in court. He looks forward to achieving justice through the legal process, focusing on the facts and the law.”

Ohhh naaa .. uncle Shay Shay got lined. Shordy drops new audio of Shannon sharpe saying he would choke her in public talmbout “big black guy choking small white woman”. SOMEONE TAG DR UMAR pic.twitter.com/PdblJ98dMs

— DJ Akademiks (@Akademiks) April 23, 2025

The accuser is represented by attorney Tony Buzbee, known for his involvement in high-profile lawsuits, including cases against Diddy and a formerly dismissed case against Jay-Z. Recently, Buzbee released audio to TMZ, claiming it was a recording of a phone call between Sharpe and his client prior to the lawsuit being filed. He contends that the audio offers insight into their relationship leading up to the alleged incident.

In the audio, Shannon Sharpe supposedly makes a remark about choking the woman in public, saying, “I might choke you in public … big Black guy chokes small white woman.” During the call, Sharpe also accused her of some undisclosed wrongdoing.

Sharpe’s legal team responded to the audio release, stating, “This is a very small excerpt with no date or context attached to it.” They emphasized that such conversations were typical in the relationship and do not reflect any genuine threat of violence.