Nike Suspends Deshaun Watson’s Endorsement Deal, Dre Beats Terminate Sponsorship

Nike has suspended their endorsement deal with Deshaun Watson. In addition, Beats by Dre has terminated its sponsorship of Watson amidst accusations of sexual misconduct and sexual assault.

“We are deeply concerned by the disturbing allegations and have suspended Deshaun Watson,” Nike said in their Wednesday statement. “We will continue to closely monitor the situation.”

Currently, 22 women have filed civil lawsuits against the Houston Texans star over the past month. All the lawsuits allege inappropriate behavior by Watson during massage and therapy sessions.

On Tuesday, Ashley Solis spoke publicly about her allegations, saying that Watson robbed her of the feeling that she was healing people as a massage therapist. “I suffer from panic attacks, anxiety, and depression,” Solis said. “I hope he knows how much pain he’s inflicted on me emotionally and physically… My father, who was once a diehard Texans fan, can no longer mention [Watson’s] name without his face turning red.”

The NFL has launched an investigation on the Texans quarterback under its personal conduct policy. NFL spokesperson Brian McCarthy on Tuesday said that the allegations against the quarterback were “deeply disturbing.”

Watson has denied any wrongdoing and continues to say that the accusations are false. The quarterback is being represented by James Hardin and his law firm. Following Tuesday’s news conference, Hardin’s law firm said that Tony Buzbee‘s law firm, which is representing the plaintiffs “sought $100,000 in hush money on behalf of Ms. Solis to quietly settle the allegations the month before he filed the first lawsuit.”

Last week, 18 women released a statement through Hardin, alleging that they have worked with the Texans’ quarterback, and he has never made them feel uncomfortable. Watson’s attorney alleges that the 18 women voluntarily gave their statements defending the quarterback.

Article by Allan Perez