FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — South Florida rapper Flo Rida has gained his and was awarded $82.6 million in damages, a Broward County jury determined Wednesday.
The decision got here on the second day of deliberations.
Flo Rida, whose actual identify is Tramar Dillard, claimed in a lawsuit that Celsius owes him 1000's of dollars in unpaid royalties earned from his endorsement deal.
The lawsuit was looking for damages for "breach of contract, accounting and unjust enrichment."
"As a music trade celebrity and worldwide icon with tens of millions of digital followers, Flo Rida performed an instrumental position because the worldwide model ambassador and launched a brand new period for Celsius model growth, development and enlargement," the lawsuit states.
The partnership, brokered by Wellington-based D3M Licensing Group in 2014, "paved the way in which for Celsius to develop its product portfolio" and broaden distribution into main retailers, the lawsuit claims.
In accordance with the lawsuit, the deal assured funds to Flo Rida, his Hialeah-based Sturdy Arm Productions and D3M when sure benchmarks had been reached.
Attorneys for the corporate claimed these benchmarks got here after Flo Rida's endorsement deal had expired.
"This was a protracted journey, however we prevailed," Flo Rida stated in an announcement after the decision was rendered. "From the beginning, I solely needed what I labored for, nothing extra, nothing much less. I used to be instrumental within the Celsius that you understand and love at the moment. When this journey started, nobody knew Celsius. I took Celsius everywhere in the world by my movies, live shows, appearances and social media. I've gained a brand new respect for the judicial system."
John Uustal, an legal professional for the entertainer, stated he was happy with the jury's choice.
"I am glad, on this case, the jury concluded that Flo Rida ought to get what he labored for," Uustal stated.
Celsius might nonetheless enchantment the decision.
Attorneys for the corporate did not instantly reply to messages looking for remark.
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