Los Angeles, CA – Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua is facing a civil lawsuit filed by a woman who claims he made an antisemitic statement and later bit her on the shoulder, according to court documents obtained by ESPN.
The plaintiff, Madison Atiabi, alleges that the incidents occurred on New Year’s Eve in Century City, California. The lawsuit cites assault and battery, gender violence, and negligence. Atiabi claims Nacua said, “f— all the Jews,” causing her to feel “immediately uncomfortable and emotionally distressed” due to her Jewish faith.
A woman has filed a lawsuit against Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua, claiming he made an antisemitic statement and bit her on the shoulder. Nacua, through his attorney, has denied the allegations.
Alleged Physical Incident
The lawsuit further states that Nacua forcibly bit Atiabi on the left shoulder, leaving a visible circular mark. Atiabi also alleges that Nacua bit her friend’s thumb with enough force to cause acute pain. Atiabi sought a temporary restraining order, which was denied, and a hearing is scheduled for April 14.
Nacua Denies Allegations
Nacua’s attorney, Levi McCathern, told ABC News that Nacua strongly denies the claims and has video evidence suggesting Atiabi’s account is inconsistent. McCathern called the allegations “a blatant lie” and described the alleged biting as “horseplay” in statements to the Los Angeles Times.
McCathern also revealed that his office received demands for millions of dollars in exchange for not publicizing the allegations, which he called blackmail. He plans to file a defamation lawsuit on behalf of Nacua.
Context and Background
This lawsuit follows closely after Seattle Seahawks receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba signed a record-breaking four-year, $168.6 million extension, making him the highest-paid wide receiver in NFL history. Nacua, who completed his third NFL season in 2025, is also eligible for a contract extension this offseason. McCathern noted the timing of the lawsuit as raising questions about its credibility.
In December 2025, Nacua apologized for an antisemitic gesture performed during an internet livestream. He stated that he was unaware of the gesture’s harmful connotations. At the time, the Los Angeles Rams condemned antisemitism, emphasizing that “there is no place in this world for antisemitism or prejudice toward any religion, ethnicity, or race.”
