Cardi B Wraps Explosive Testimony as Hostile Witness in High-Stakes Assault Trial

Los Angeles, CA – August 28, 2025 – Rapper Cardi B wrapped up her testimony on Wednesday, August 27, as a hostile witness in the ongoing civil assault trial brought against her by Emani Ellis, a former security guard. The case stems from a 2018 incident at a medical building where Cardi, then pregnant, claims Ellis harassed her by recording her without consent and engaging in a verbal altercation. Ellis alleges Cardi physically assaulted her, leading to a scar requiring plastic surgery and her subsequent firing. Cardi’s direct examination by plaintiff’s lawyer Ron Rosen was marked by tense exchanges, with the artist firmly denying any physical contact while admitting to verbal confrontation.

Background of the Case

The lawsuit revolves around an encounter on February 24, 2018, at 8920 Wilshire Boulevard in Beverly Hills. Cardi B, whose real name is Belcalis Almanzar, was visiting her doctor amid rumors of her pregnancy when Ellis, working security in the building, allegedly confronted her. Ellis claims Cardi scratched her face during the dispute, resulting in a 2 cm scar. Cardi counters that Ellis was aggressive, recording her, and that no assault occurred. Ellis was fired after the incident and seeks $24 million in damages.

Cardi was called as a hostile witness by Ellis’ legal team, allowing Rosen to pose leading questions. This strategy aimed to challenge Cardi’s credibility and elicit admissions about her actions and state of mind during the altercation.

Key Moments from Cardi’s Testimony

Cardi’s testimony, spanning multiple days, focused on the details of the incident, her pregnancy, and her interactions with Ellis. Under Rosen’s probing, she maintained her innocence while providing vivid recollections.

The Recording Allegation
Cardi reiterated that Ellis was recording her with a cell phone held at chest level. “The camera was facing me,” she testified. When asked how she knew, Cardi described the phone’s position: “It was right there like practically on her chest.” She denied spilling anything or causing a disturbance initially, claiming Ellis initiated the confrontation. Rosen pressed on whether Cardi called for help, noting she had her phone but didn’t summon her security guard, Karan Newton, or police. Cardi explained the incident was brief—”a minute or less”—and resolved quickly.

Physical Contact and Assault Denial
A central line of questioning involved whether there was any physical contact. Cardi admitted to being “chest to chest” with Ellis during the argument but denied hitting, scratching, or swinging at her. “I didn’t touch her,” she stated repeatedly. Rosen highlighted Cardi’s long nails at the time, asking if they were sharp or could cause injury. Cardi clarified they were flat rhinestones, not pointy, and “not sharp.”

When confronted with the possibility of spit from yelling, Cardi said, “I don’t think so.” She emphasized her pregnancy (3-4 months at the time) as a “disability” that made her fearful and unable to defend herself aggressively. “I was pregnant. I couldn’t protect myself even if I wanted to,” she said, noting Ellis was “twice my size” and “security heavy.”

Rosen asked if Cardi blacked out from anger, which she denied. She admitted to being “angry” and “scared,” rating her anger level as high but focused on concern for her baby.

Witnesses and Aftermath
Cardi described receptionist Tiara Malcolm intervening first, followed by her doctor, Dr. Fininky, who escorted her to his office. She estimated the timeline: 40-50 seconds until Malcolm arrived, a few seconds more for Fininky. Cardi denied blocking Ellis or seeing her after entering the office.

Post-incident, Cardi posted online denying Ellis’ live-stream claims of assault, calling them lies aimed at money. “That’s a fucking lie. Fuck out of here. Was trying to get some money,” she recalled posting. She never apologized, insisting no wrongdoing occurred.

Personal Background and Credibility
Rosen delved into Cardi’s background, asking about her siblings, children, and use of profanity in music (e.g., the N-word). Cardi acknowledged using strong language but denied directing slurs at Ellis. She also addressed her anger management, insisting she didn’t “black out” during the incident.

Cardi’s Return as a Defense Witness

After Rosen’s examination, Cardi testified for her defense, reiterating her account. She emphasized the brief, verbal nature of the dispute and her pregnancy’s impact on her actions.

Trial Context and Implications

The trial, now in its third day, focuses on whether Cardi assaulted Ellis, causing emotional and physical harm. Ellis claims the scar required plastic surgery and led to her firing. Cardi counters that Ellis was aggressive and the claims are financially motivated.

Cardi’s testimony, marked by objections from her lawyers over argumentative questioning, showcased her frustration but also her consistency in denying violence. Judge’s interventions emphasized civility, noting Rosen’s tone was “a little bit argumentative.”

As the trial continues, witnesses like Tiara Malcolm, Dr. Fininky, and Karan Newton are expected to testify, potentially clarifying the incident’s details. The case highlights themes of celebrity accountability, workplace harassment, and the challenges of pregnancy in public life.

Cardi B, known for her candidness, has not commented publicly on the trial beyond court appearances. The outcome could impact her reputation and set precedents for similar celebrity disputes.