Zinni Media Concept Limited v. Mayweather CA2/5

FACTS AND PROCEDURAL HISTORY

A. The Celebrity Engagement Agreements

On or about April 2017, Mayweather’s agent Keane Anis (Anis) contacted Zinni, a Nigerian firm, with a proposal to enter into a “Celebrity Engagement Agreement” with Mayweather under which Mayweather would make five appearances in Africa in June 2017. Mayweather and Zinni entered into the agreement, which required Zinni to pay Mayweather $75,000 per appearance for hotel expenses; to book, arrange and pay for ground transportation; to provide security; and to book and pay for the event venue, including sound, regulatory permits, lights, production, and hospitality. Pursuant to the agreement, Zinni wired Mayweather $10,000 as a good faith commitment. Upon receipt of a video drop from Mayweather acknowledging the agreement, Zinni wired Mayweather’s business, One Entertainment, a total of $200,000 in May and June 2017. Zinni then made arrangements, including hotel reservations, transportation, security, and venue, and commenced a marketing and promotional campaign to promote Mayweather’s appearances. On or about June 13, 2017, Anis informed Zinni that Mayweather would not be making the agreed-upon appearances.…