Fat Joe, real name Joseph Cartagena, is at the centre of a staggering $20 million (£14.8 million) lawsuit filed on 20 June by his ex-hype man and collaborator, Terrance “T.A.” Dixon. The lawsuit, filed in federal court, paints a damning picture of the Bronx rapper’s alleged conduct, claiming he orchestrated a failed hit on fellow rapper 50 Cent and exploited multiple underage girls.

According to Dixon’s 157-page complaint, the plot to kill Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson allegedly took place around 2006–2007, during a time of heightened tensions in the hip-hop world. Dixon claims Joe put a bounty on 50 Cent’s head, stating in the documents that the rapper “ordered the hit” but failed because 50 Cent was “surrounded by Navy SEAL-type security.”

In addition to the murder plot allegations, Dixon claims Fat Joe had inappropriate sexual relationships with girls aged 15 and 16. One incident detailed in the lawsuit involves a 16-year-old Dominican girl who allegedly engaged in sexual acts with the rapper in exchange for money, designer clothing, and having her phone bills paid.

Another accusation involves a 15-year-old Caucasian girl whom Dixon says was flown from the UK to New York and Miami to meet Fat Joe. The rapper allegedly financed a Brazilian butt lift for her, due to her “adolescent and not fully developed” body.

Dixon also claims Fat Joe pursued a Latina girl, aged 15 or 16, and went as far as to express his desire to leave his wife for her.

The lawsuit doesn’t stop at sexual misconduct. Dixon says he was exploited for years by Joe and his associates, forced to perform unpaid labour, coerced into over 4,000 sexual acts, and denied credit for creative work on music projects including songs like “Congratulations” and “Money Over Bitches.”

In response, Fat Joe’s legal team has categorically denied the claims. His attorney, Joe Tacopina, called the lawsuit “a complete fabrication” and “a blatant act of retaliation.” He added:

“This is a desperate attempt to extort money through shameful lies. Mr Cartagena will not be intimidated or manipulated by these baseless allegations.”

Tacopina also pointed to a defamation lawsuit that Fat Joe filed earlier this year against Dixon and his legal representation, suggesting this new case is a response to that action.

Tyrone Blackburn, Dixon’s lawyer, doubled down on the accusations, saying:

“Fat Joe is Sean Combs minus the Tusi. There are multiple victims, and we’re just scratching the surface.”

The case has already ignited heated discussion across social media and the music industry, with many calling for a full investigation and due process. As it stands, no criminal charges have been filed, and Fat Joe maintains his innocence.

‍