Cardi B Scores Legal Win: Stripper Past Off-Limits in Assault Trial

 Cardi B’s Legal Battle Heats Up, But Judge Shields Her Past

Cardi B’s name has become synonymous with both chart-topping hits and headline-making controversies, but as her latest legal battle unfolds, the Bronx rapper has just scored a significant victory in court. The judge presiding over her ongoing assault case has ruled that her past as a stripper and any previous legal troubles cannot be used against her in the upcoming trial—a decision that could shift the momentum in Cardi’s favor.

The 2018 Incident: What Happened?

The case stems from an alleged altercation in 2018 at a Beverly Hills OBGYN’s office, where Cardi B—then four months pregnant—was visiting her doctor. Emani Ellis, a security guard at the Beverly Hills Medical Center, claims that Cardi attacked her, swinging at her and scratching her face so severely that it required surgery. Cardi, however, insists the confrontation was only verbal, sparked by overhearing Ellis discussing her confidential OBGYN visit—something Cardi was desperate to keep private at the time.

Judge Draws a Firm Line

On July 30, Los Angeles County Judge Ian C. Fusselman handed down a ruling that could have major implications for the trial, which is set to begin August 11 if all goes according to plan. According to Billboard, Judge Fusselman declared that references to Cardi’s previous work as a stripper, any alleged gang associations, or prior legal issues are strictly off-limits in front of the jury.

“Defendant’s prior acts and alleged prior acts, as well as prior involvement in exotic dancing or any gang associations, have no apparent probative value, and any references thereto would be unduly prejudicial and likely to confuse the jury and result in an undue waste of time,” the judge wrote in his order.

This means jurors will focus solely on the alleged incident itself—no salacious details from Cardi’s past will be allowed to color their judgment.

A Two-Part Trial: What’s Next for Cardi B?

In another twist, Judge Fusselman ordered the trial to be split into two phases. The first will determine whether Cardi B is liable for assault and battery. If she is found responsible, a second phase will address the question of financial damages.

This approach ensures that the jury’s initial verdict is based solely on the facts of the alleged altercation—not Cardi’s celebrity status or controversial history.

Cardi B: More Than Her Past

Cardi B has never shied away from her roots, openly discussing her time as a stripper and continually denying any gang affiliations. But this ruling is a reminder that, at least in the eyes of the law, her past cannot be used as a weapon against her in this case.

While fans continue to speculate about her relationship with Stefon Diggs and her every move makes tabloid headlines, one thing is clear: in this trial, only the facts of what happened in that Beverly Hills office matter.

What’s at Stake?

If found liable, Cardi B could face significant financial penalties. But with her past off the table, the playing field may be more level than ever before. As the trial date approaches, all eyes will be on the courtroom—and on Cardi, as she fights to defend her name once again.

 Do you think the judge made the right call? Will Cardi B’s legal drama impact her career? Let us know your thoughts below!