Pro Football Hall of Famer and sports commentator Shannon Sharpe is forcefully denying allegations that he sexually assaulted a woman he met online, calling the claims a fabricated smear campaign orchestrated by prominent Texas attorney Tony Buzbee. In a video statement released this week, Sharpe alleges that Buzbee and the woman, identified as Gabriella Zuniga, are attempting to blackmail him for $50 million.
The allegations surfaced as a civil lawsuit filed in Texas accuses Sharpe of sexually assaulting Zuniga in a private setting after the two met through a social media platform. The legal complaint reportedly includes detailed claims of unwanted advances and coercive behavior. However, Sharpe, a former Denver Broncos and Baltimore Ravens tight end turned media personality, adamantly denies all accusations and says the case is nothing more than an extortion scheme.
“This isn’t about justice—it’s about money,” Sharpe says in the video, addressing his fans and the public. “They want $50 million. That’s not seeking the truth, that’s trying to get rich.”
Sharpe accuses Buzbee of leveraging his high-profile legal reputation and ties to celebrity litigation to create pressure and public outrage. Buzbee is currently involved in a series of lawsuits against music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs, representing multiple women alleging sexual misconduct and abuse. In response to Sharpe’s accusations, Buzbee denies any wrongdoing and maintains that his client has a legitimate claim supported by evidence.
Legal analysts suggest that the case may become a battleground over both legal accountability and public relations, particularly given the national attention Sharpe commands. As co-host of the ESPN talk show First Take and a longtime figure in sports media, Sharpe’s image is widely associated with professionalism, candor, and outspokenness on social justice issues.
This is not the first time Tony Buzbee’s legal tactics have drawn national scrutiny. He previously represented the women in the high-profile lawsuits against NFL quarterback Deshaun Watson, many of which were settled out of court. Buzbee’s aggressive courtroom style and high media profile have earned him both accolades and criticism over the years.
Sharpe’s legal team is preparing a formal countersuit, alleging defamation, civil conspiracy, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. They argue that the timing of the lawsuit, as well as the demand for a massive payout, reveals the claim’s true motivation.
Gabriella Zuniga has not spoken publicly about the case. Buzbee, in a written statement, says that his client stands by her account and will present evidence in court to support the assault allegations.
Meanwhile, fans and fellow athletes are rallying around Sharpe, with several NFL players and sports commentators expressing support on social media. The NFL has not commented on the lawsuit, as Sharpe is retired from professional play and not subject to league disciplinary review.
As the case unfolds, it joins a broader national conversation about the intersection of celebrity, legal accountability, and potential abuse of the civil litigation system. Both parties are bracing for what could become a protracted and highly public legal battle.
