Rapper Busta Rhymes (real name Trevor George Smith Jr.) has filed a defamation countersuit against his ex‑assistant Dashiel Gables, who earlier this year accused him of assault, battery, wage violations, and emotional distress.
What Led to the Countersuit
- In August 2025, Gables sued Busta Rhymes, alleging that the rapper verbally abused employees, physically struck Gables twice during a confrontation over phone use, and withheld wages.
- Gables’ complaint includes claims of assault, battery, and emotional distress, as well as accusations of a toxic work environment filled with verbal degradation and unreasonable demands.
- Rhymes denied all wrongdoing and characterized Gables’ lawsuit as “an attempted shake-down by a disgruntled former assistant.”
What the Countersuit Claims
- Filed October 13, 2025, Rhymes’ countersuit alleges Gables fabricated the allegations, acted with reckless disregard for the truth, omitted exculpatory facts, and ignored evidence contradicting his claims.
- He claims that Gables’ statements damaged his reputation, caused lost business opportunities, and necessitate punitive damages for what his legal team calls a malicious false campaign.
- Rhymes insists he never assaulted or battered Gables, and that the allegations are baseless.
What to Watch Going Forward
- Whether the court will consolidate or dismiss parts of either suit before proceeding
- Gables’ response to the countersuit, which may include defenses or motions to strike
- Discovery phase, where documents, communications, and witness statements could be unsealed
- Potential settlement attempts to avoid protracted litigation, given public attention and reputational stakes
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