Mike Tyson's Cannabis Brand Faces $50 Million Fraud Lawsuit

Jan 9, 2026, 2:23 AM
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Mike Tyson and Ric Flair have initiated a significant legal battle, filing a $50 million lawsuit against former executives of their cannabis company, Carma. The lawsuit, lodged in the US District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, accuses the defendants of engaging in a "brazen RICO conspiracy" involving fraud, embezzlement, and self-dealing that allegedly enriched them by tens of millions of dollars.
The 76-page complaint names four former Carma executives: Chad Bronstein, Adam Wilks, Nicole Cosby, and James Case. It outlines 21 counts of wrongdoing, including wire fraud, money laundering, and unauthorized licensing deals that purportedly resulted in substantial financial losses for Tyson and Flair.
According to the lawsuit, the defendants misused company funds for personal expenses, including private jets, luxury watches, and home renovations, treating Carma as their "personal piggy bank." The complaint alleges that over $1 million was spent on extravagant dinners and unauthorized travel.
The lawsuit also highlights specific incidents of misconduct, such as Bronstein's unauthorized sponsorship deal with All Elite Wrestling (AEW) involving Flair's likeness, which led to a $1.5 million lawsuit against Carma and LGNDS. The complaint claims that Bronstein falsely presented himself as Flair's agent during negotiations, resulting in Flair not receiving any proceeds from the deal.
Tyson and Flair's cannabis brands, Tyson 2.0 and Ric Flair Drip, were launched in partnership with Carma and LGNDS. However, the lawsuit alleges that the defendants sold licensing rights without proper authorization and entered into undisclosed kickback arrangements with other companies, including a vape manufacturer.
The plaintiffs are seeking a jury trial and damages exceeding $50 million, along with reimbursement for legal fees and costs. As of now, the defendants have not formally responded to the lawsuit in court, but their attorneys have dismissed the allegations as baseless and sensational.
This legal dispute underscores the complexities and potential pitfalls of celebrity branding in the cannabis industry, where the intersection of fame and business can lead to significant challenges. Tyson and Flair, both icons in their respective fields, are now fighting to reclaim control over their names and likenesses, which they allege have been mishandled by former partners.
The outcome of this lawsuit could have far-reaching implications for celebrity involvement in the cannabis market, which has seen mixed success. While some celebrity brands have thrived, others have struggled to maintain authenticity and consumer trust.
As the case unfolds, it remains to be seen whether Tyson and Flair will achieve the justice they seek or if the defendants will successfully counter the claims made against them.
This lawsuit not only highlights the potential for fraud in the cannabis industry but also raises questions about the responsibilities of celebrity partners in business ventures. Tyson and Flair's fight is not just for financial restitution but also for the integrity of their brands and legacies.
The legal proceedings are expected to draw significant attention, given the high-profile nature of the plaintiffs and the serious allegations involved. As both sides prepare for what could be a lengthy court battle, the stakes are high for all parties involved.
In conclusion, the lawsuit filed by Tyson and Flair against their former partners in the cannabis business serves as a cautionary tale about the risks associated with celebrity branding and the importance of transparency and accountability in business dealings.

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