Last Thursday (April 11), Reebok publicly announced their severing of the endorsement relationship with rapper Rick Ross. The announcement followed public protests outside Reebok retail stores by women’s rights groups—including UltraViolet—after Ross’ lyrics on Rocko’s “U.O.E.N.O.” were interpreted to suggest rape. Following two dismissals of the interpretation of the song, Ross was formally let go on the basis of “values” and his “lack of remorse.” While Ross formally apologized a day later, and wished the shoemaker and apparel brand continued success, there have been no reports of reconciliation.
In a new TMZ report, unnamed sources said to be close to the deal tell the celebrity news and gossip site that Ross stands to lose between $3 and $5 million dollars through the botched deal. Neither Reebok nor Ross have spoken about the financial terms of their now-forfeited agreement, however, TMZ alleges that Ross was receiving pay each time he wore Reebok sneakers.
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