The Los Angeles Rams’ offseason has been rocked by explosive legal allegations involving their Pro Bowl wide receiver, Puka Nacua. The breakout NFL star is currently facing a civil lawsuit filed in Los Angeles, accusing him of assault, battery, and making unprovoked antisemitic remarks during a New Year’s Eve outing. While Nacua’s legal team has fired back, characterizing the lawsuit as a "shakedown" and a "blatant lie," the gravity of the claims has sent shockwaves through the sports world.
The lawsuit, filed by plaintiff Madison Atiabi, paints a harrowing picture of an evening that allegedly spiraled from a social dinner into a "course of rude, vulgar, and violent conduct." According to court documents obtained by major news outlets, the incident began during a group dinner in Century City on December 31, 2025.
NFL Network reporter Jamie Erdahl interviews Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua after a game against the Arizona Cardinals at SoFi Stadium Dec. 28, 2024, in Inglewood, Calif. (Kirby Lee/Imagn Images)
The Allegations: A Bite and a Slur
Atiabi, who is Jewish, claims that Nacua made an "unprovoked antisemitic statement" at the dinner table, allegedly shouting, "f* all the Jews."** The plaintiff states she immediately felt "uncomfortable and emotionally distressed" due to her faith.
The situation reportedly escalated later that night while the group was traveling in a Sprinter van. Atiabi alleges that Nacua began acting in a "strange and erratic" manner. The lawsuit claims he first bit a friend’s thumb with such force that the woman "screamed in acute pain." Moments later, Nacua is accused of "forcibly" biting Atiabi on her left shoulder.
To support these claims, the filing included a photograph showing a circular imprint of teeth that allegedly broke the skin. Atiabi filed an official report with the LAPD on January 2, 2026, just one day after the alleged encounter.
The Defense: "Mutual Horseplay" and Video Evidence
Nacua’s lead attorney, Levi McCathern, has issued a staunch denial of the most serious charges. In a statement, McCathern admitted that a "bite" occurred but described the interaction as nothing more than "mutual horseplay" among friends that resulted in only a temporary mark.
The defense's "smoking gun" appears to be a viral video released by TMZ, reportedly filmed later that same night. In the footage, Nacua appears to be completely passed out and unresponsive in the back of the van. Meanwhile, Atiabi and her companions are seen dancing and laughing in close proximity to the unconscious player.
"The behavior in the video is totally inconsistent with someone who had just been violently assaulted or subjected to hate speech," McCathern argued. The defense team also claims they have testimony from "sober witnesses" who deny that any antisemitic slurs were uttered.
Puka Nacua of the Los Angeles Rams runs downfield during the second half against the San Francisco 49ers at SoFi Stadium Oct. 2, 2025, in Inglewood, Calif. (Brooke Sutton/Getty Images)
A History of Controversy
The timing of these allegations is particularly sensitive for Nacua. Just weeks before the New Year’s Eve incident, in December 2025, the receiver was forced to apologize for an "antisemitic in nature" gesture performed during an internet livestream with controversial influencer Adin Ross.
At the time, the NFL and the Rams issued statements condemning all forms of hate speech. Nacua himself claimed he had "no idea" the gesture rubbing his hands together to mimic an antisemitic trope was offensive. This previous incident has led to increased scrutiny of the current claims, as the NFL’s Personal Conduct Policy remains a looming shadow over the young star’s career.
Financial and Career Fallout
The legal battle comes at a pivotal moment for Nacua’s wallet. After a historic 2025 season where he led the league in receptions (129) and receiving yards (1,715), Nacua was reportedly a "big-time priority" for a record-breaking contract extension.
However, legal experts suggest that these allegations combined with the $25,000 fine he received in late 2025 for criticizing officials could jeopardize a deal potentially worth hundreds of millions. McCathern has alleged that the lawsuit is a tactical move, claiming Atiabi sought millions in a private mediation session on March 11, 2026, to keep the story quiet. In response, Nacua's team plans to file a defamation lawsuit.
What’s Next for the Rams Star?
As of now, a Los Angeles judge has denied the initial request for a temporary restraining order against Nacua, citing a lack of evidence for an immediate emergency. However, the legal saga is far from over.
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April 14, 2026: A formal hearing is scheduled where both sides will present evidence and testimony.
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NFL Investigation: The league is expected to monitor the civil proceedings closely to determine if disciplinary action is warranted.
The Rams have yet to issue a formal statement regarding the lawsuit, though the team previously emphasized there is "no place in this world for antisemitism." For Puka Nacua, the next few weeks in a courtroom may prove even more defining than his record-breaking performances on the field.
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