A$AP Relli may have lost the criminal trial, but he’s not backing down in his assault and battery lawsuit against A$AP Rocky over the same 2021 incident.
According to Rolling Stone, Relli’s legal team confirmed during a February 26 court hearing that they intend to proceed with the civil case, which had been on hold while Rocky’s criminal trial played out. With that trial now over, a judge has officially lifted the stay and set a trial date for January 12, 2026.
Relli’s attorney, Melissa Mikail, defended the decision, emphasizing that civil and criminal trials operate under different legal standards.
“The standard in a criminal case is much higher than the preponderance of the evidence standard in a civil matter,” Mikail stated. “We still believe that our claims have merit, and we intend on fully litigating them.”
However, Rocky’s attorney, James Sargent dismissed the basis of the lawsuit entirely.
“Mr. Ephron testified in the criminal case as to the facts and circumstances. The jury’s acquittal speaks volumes as to how they valued that testimonial evidence,” Sargent told the judge.
Speaking to Rolling Stone outside the courtroom, Sargent also made it clear that Rocky has no intention of settling, stating, “We look forward to full vindication. The plaintiff can take a sober assessment of the outcome of the criminal case and change course.”
The next hearing in the case is scheduled for May 28.
A$AP Rocky’s Criminal Trial & Relli’s Defiant Response
The criminal trial, which began on January 24, lasted nearly three weeks before concluding on February 14. The jury deliberated for approximately three hours on February 18 before returning a unanimous not-guilty verdict on both felony assault charges.
Despite the loss, Relli remained defiant, addressing his critics on Instagram Stories following the verdict.
“Gossiping is a form of entertainment for people who have no meaningful goals or purpose in life,” he wrote. “Hate me, bring shame to my name, say bad things about me, I don’t care.” He added, “Your existence doesn’t add any value in my life [praying hands emoji].”
The backlash against Relli has been relentless. 50 Cent, one of A$AP Rocky’s most vocal supporters throughout the trial, mocked him in a celebratory Instagram post, dubbing him “A$AP Telli.” Meanwhile, A$AP Mob alumnus A$AP Ant took to X (formerly Twitter) to take a shot at Relli, writing, “Stupid fool really turnt rat” alongside an image of Relli testifying.
While Rocky is free, the legal battle isn’t over yet, and it looks like the tension between Relli and his former crew is only getting worse.