Rick Ross Loses Reebok Endorsement Over ‘Rape’ Lyrics
Rick Ross lost an endorsement deal with Reebok yesterday when the shoe company cut ties with the rapper over controversial lyrics that seemed to brag about date rape in Rocko’s song “U.O.E.N.O.”
“While we do not believe that Rick Ross condones sexual assault, we are very disappointed he has yet to display an understanding of the seriousness of this issue or an appropriate level of remorse,” Reebok said in a statement, according to Reuters.
Rick Ross ‘Rape’ Lyrics Dropped From ‘U.O.E.N.O.’
“At this time, it is in everyone’s best interest for Reebok to end its partnership with Mr. Ross,” the statement said.
Although Ross has apologized for the lyrics, he also said their meaning was misinterpreted because he never used the word “rape” when he rapped, “Put molly all in her champagne, she ain’t even know it / I took her home and I enjoyed that, she ain’t even know it.” Molly is slang for a powerful form of ecstasy.
The women’s rights group Ultra Violet was unmoved by the rapper’s explanation, and had called for Reebok to drop Ross. The group yesterday praised the apparel company, which is a division of Adidas, tweeting, “Thank you @Reebok for doing the right thing!”
Rocko said this week that he has dropped Ross’ verse from the song.