After investing more than $500,000 in legal fees and related expenses, A$AP Relli now finds himself representing his own interests in defamation proceedings against rapper A$AP Rocky, following the withdrawal of his high-profile attorney Camille Vasquez in August 2025.
The decision to proceed without legal counsel has raised significant concerns in Los Angeles Superior Court, where Judge Randolph M. Hammock recently delivered a stark warning about the financial implications of continuing the lawsuit.
The defamation case, filed in 2023, stems from statements made by Rocky and his attorney Joe Tacopina, who publicly characterized Relli as dishonest and attempting extortion following a 2021 incident in Hollywood.
Relli had accused Rocky of shooting him with a semiautomatic weapon, allegations that led to criminal charges against the rapper. However, Rocky was acquitted in February 2025 after a three-week trial that featured testimony indicating the firearm used was merely a prop loaded with blanks.
The rapper faced trial but won acquittal when evidence revealed the alleged weapon contained only blanks, not live ammunition.
Judge Hammock cautioned Relli that he risks owing approximately $50,000 in legal fees to Rocky if the defamation suit is dismissed under California’s anti-SLAPP statute, which protects defendants from lawsuits intended to chill free speech.
“You might want to contemplate walking away from this case,” Hammock advised during recent proceedings, suggesting settlement negotiations might be preferable to continuing litigation.
The defamation lawsuit appears increasingly precarious following Rocky’s criminal acquittal, which substantially undermined Relli’s credibility.
Court records revealed audio recordings presented at trial in which Relli allegedly demanded $30 million from Rocky and offered to disappear “on an island” if paid.
The tense hearing in downtown Los Angeles highlighted the escalating pressure on Relli as he continues to pursue his claims against the popular rapper.
Legal experts note that musicians like Rocky typically utilize performance rights organizations to protect their creative works from unauthorized use, making this case particularly complex in the entertainment industry.
While Rocky has managed to maintain diverse income streams through his music and endorsements during the legal battle, Relli faces mounting financial pressures with no apparent backup revenue sources.
Beyond the defamation proceedings, Relli has a separate civil assault lawsuit against Rocky scheduled for trial in January 2026.
Both cases are being heard in Los Angeles Superior Court, with Judges William Fahey and Randolph Hammock presiding.
No official reason has been disclosed for Vasquez’s withdrawal from Relli’s representation, leaving him to navigate complex legal waters alone as he faces mounting financial pressures and diminishing prospects for success in court.
Relli must file an official response by October 23 for the upcoming hearing on Rocky’s motion to dismiss.
