Shannon Sharpe called the sexual assault lawsuit against him a “shakedown” after the lawyer representing his accuser released audio from an alleged phone call.

On Monday, TMZ reported that Sharpe was being sued for $50 million. The woman — identified only as Jane Doe — accused Sharpe of raping her multiple times between late 2024 and early 2025. According to the suit the two began a consensual relationship prior to that, but the assaults allegedly took place after she tried to end the relationship.

In response to that initial report, Sharpe published a statement from his legal counsel on social media. The statement included multiple sexually explicit text messages that allegedly came from Sharpe’s accuser. Sharpe’s team argued that the texts proved the nature of the relationship was consensual.

https://www.twitter.com/ShannonSharpe/status/1914401829284393293

The next day, Tony Buzbee — the Jane Doe’s lawyer — sent TMZ a 96-second clip from a supposed phone call she had with Sharpe. In the clip, the two people appear to be arguing about something when the female voice said, “Don’t manipulate me.” In response, the male voice said, “If you say that word one more time, I’m gonna fucking choke the shit out of you when I see you.”

Shortly after that report, Sharpe posted a video explaining the situation on social media. He specifically attacked Buzbee — who’s been involved in other high-profile lawsuits — and called the lawsuit nothing more than an attempt to extort him.

He said:

To my family, friends, supporters, and colleagues, I want to speak to you directly and from the heart. This is a shakedown. I’m gonna be open, transparent, and defend myself because this isn’t right. This is all being orchestrated by Tony Buzbee — who has targeted Jay-Z. Tony Buzbee targets black men, and I believe he’s going to release a 32-second clip of a sex tape that tries to make me look guilty and play into every stereotype you could possibly imagine.

That video should actually be 10 minutes or so. Hey, Tony, instead of releasing your edit, put the whole video out. I don’t have it or I would’ve myself. You know what happened and you’re trying to manipulate the media.

The encounter in question took place during the day at her invitation, and now that appears to be a deliberate setup coordinated by Gabby — also known as Carly on OnlyFans. Gabby and Tony Buzbee want $50 million. What they’re getting is sued for defamation and trying to take me down.

My career is all about real talk and honesty. I know my family and fans know exactly what this is about, and I’m going to be out there telling you whatever I need to say, just like I always do. I love all you guys. Thanks.

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The post Shannon Sharpe Breaks Silence on Sexual Assault Lawsuit After Lawyer Releases Alleged Audio Threat: ‘This Is a Shakedown’ first appeared on Mediaite.

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