Chris Brown denies London nightclub assault
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Chris Brown pleads not guilty to assault in London nightclub bottle attack, faces UK trial in October 2026.
Brown Denies Assault Charge in UK Court
Chris Brown denies London nightclub assault. The US R&B star Chris Brown has pleaded not guilty to a charge of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH) following an alleged bottle attack at a London nightclub in 2023. The 36-year-old singer is accused of attacking music producer Abraham Diaw during what prosecutors have called an “unprovoked” incident.
Additional Charges Postponed
In addition to the GBH charge, Brown is also facing two other charges: assault occasioning actual bodily harm and possession of an offensive weapon — specifically, a tequila bottle. Both charges relate to the same incident and were added to the case ahead of Friday’s court hearing. However, the judge adjourned arraignment on those counts, meaning Brown will not enter pleas for them until 11 July.
Court Appearance Following Cardiff Concert
Brown appeared at Southwark Crown Court just hours after performing for thousands at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium. Wearing an ocean blue suit and black-rimmed glasses, he silently walked past photographers gathered outside. Inside the courtroom, several fans filled the benches to watch the proceedings.
Calm Demeanour in Courtroom
Once in the dock, Brown smiled and winked at a woman seated in the courtroom. He confirmed his name and birth date — 5 May 1989 — before pleading “Not guilty, ma’am,” when asked about the GBH charge by Judge Baumgartner.
Co-Defendant Also Denies Charge
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Brown’s co-defendant, Omololu Akinlolu — known professionally as HoodyBaby — also entered a not guilty plea to the same charge. Akinlolu, a 39-year-old American rapper and associate of Brown, is alleged to have participated in the attack at the Tape nightclub in London.
Arrest and Bail Conditions
Brown was arrested last month at the Lowry Hotel in Salford shortly after arriving in the UK to prepare for the European leg of his world tour. He spent nearly a week in custody before being released on bail after agreeing to pay a £5 million security fee. The large financial guarantee ensures his compliance with bail conditions, with the risk of forfeiture if breached.
Travel Permitted for Tour Dates
As part of his bail conditions, Brown is required to live at a UK address and has surrendered his passport to the police. However, a special arrangement allows him to retrieve the passport when traveling for tour performances. His world tour, Breezy Bowl XX, began in Amsterdam on 8 June and reached the UK last weekend.
“Thanks to the Jail” – Brown Jokes on Stage
During his Manchester performance on Sunday, Brown addressed fans: “Thank you for coming and supporting me. And thank you to the jail — it was really nice.” His remark drew laughter and applause, highlighting the contrast between his legal woes and tour success.
One of R&B’s Biggest Stars
Chris Brown remains one of the most successful figures in modern R&B. He boasts two Grammy Awards and 19 UK top 10 hits, including “With You,” “Freaky Friday,” and “Don’t Wake Me Up.” Last week, he won Best Male R&B/Pop Artist at the BET Awards in Los Angeles.
Details of the Alleged Attack
According to the prosecution, Abraham Diaw was at the bar of Soho’s Tape nightclub on 19 February 2023 when Brown allegedly struck him several times with a tequila bottle in an unprovoked attack. The prosecution claims Brown then pursued Diaw to another area of the club where he and another individual continued the assault by punching and kicking him.
Trial Set for 2026
Brown is set to stand trial for the GBH charge on 26 October 2026. His next court appearance regarding the additional charges is scheduled for 11 July 2025, after his European tour concludes. Despite the legal troubles, his tour continues, with upcoming performances at London’s Tottenham Hotspur Stadium this weekend.
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