In late 2024, rap icon Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson filed a high-profile lawsuit against TraxNYC, a celebrity jeweler owned by Maksud Agadjani, for allegedly using his name, image, and likeness to advertise and sell imitation chains modeled after his iconic cross necklace. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the dispute, the legal arguments, how the case unfolded, and its resolution.
50 Cent Lawsuit Against Jeweler TraxNYC: Main Issues and Background
What Sparked the Legal Action?
The conflict began when TraxNYC promoted a line of diamond cross chains on social media, directly referencing 50 Cent and using his photos without authorization. Multiple posts, including TikTok videos and Instagram captions, implied an affiliation between the rapper and the jeweler. TraxNYC showcased jewelry visually identical to a custom necklace originally designed exclusively for 50 Cent, further misleading the public.
Key Allegations by 50 Cent
- Unauthorized use of 50 Cent’s name, image, and intellectual property to market, advertise, and sell imitation jewelry.
- Creating consumer confusion by falsely suggesting the jewelry was endorsed by, linked to, or designed in partnership with 50 Cent.
- Continuing promotional activity even after 50 Cent’s direct warnings to cease and desist.
- Violations of publicity rights, trademark infringement, and unjust enrichment from improper use of the rapper’s brand and reputation.
The Legal Battle: Claims and Responses
Arguments from Both Sides
- 50 Cent’s suit demanded not only a halt to all unauthorized use of his likeness and brand but also at least $5 million in damages for the commercial exploitation and dilution of his image.
- Court documents detailed multiple social media posts, including captions such as “Yo @50 Cent, you should be a jeweler. Hit traxnyc.com,” and videos explicitly advertising lookalike necklaces while referencing the rapper.
- TraxNYC and Maksud Agadjani insisted that using a cross—a common jewelry design—was fair, and initially responded publicly in a spirit of “forgiveness,” even making further public stunts referencing the lawsuit.
- Despite the jeweler’s claims, legal experts and the court recognized the unauthorized commercial use of 50 Cent’s name and image as a violation of his publicity and trademark rights.
How the Lawsuit Progressed
- October 2024: 50 Cent files an official lawsuit in federal court, seeking at least $5 million in damages and an injunction to prevent further use of his name, image, and likeness.
- The lawsuit garners widespread media attention and prompts public responses, including pleas and stunts from TraxNYC aimed at resolving the dispute outside the courtroom.
- 50 Cent maintains a firm stance, stressing the importance of protecting his brand and warning against unauthorized commercial exploitation.
Resolution and Current Status
In May 2025, the lawsuit reached a turning point. Maksud Agadjani, owner of TraxNYC, issued a public apology both online and at his New York storefront, acknowledging he used 50 Cent’s image, name, and intellectual property rights without consent and expressing regret for his actions. Following this apology and the removal of all offending promotional materials, 50 Cent formally dismissed the lawsuit with prejudice against most of the defendants, meaning the claims cannot be refiled.
- Both parties agreed to cover their own legal costs and fees, with no monetary damages awarded due to the settlement and public acknowledgment of wrongdoing.
- The dismissal does not apply to one associated individual, allowing for the possibility of future legal action if necessary.
- The apology from TraxNYC serves as a cautionary message to other jewelers and businesses about the consequences of leveraging celebrity likeness without permission.
Implications and Lessons from the Case
Why Did It Matter?
- The case emphasized the importance of publicity and trademark protections for public figures whose brand value is closely tied to their image and creative output.
- It reaffirmed that even commonly designed items like cross pendants can’t be used as vehicles for unauthorized celebrity endorsement or brand association.
- The outcome encourages businesses to seek explicit authorization before associating any product with a celebrity or public figure, regardless of how similar or “inspired” a design may be.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did 50 Cent sue TraxNYC?
50 Cent sued the jeweler for unauthorized use of his name, image, and custom jewelry design to sell imitation chains and misleadingly promote a business relationship that never existed.
What was the final result of the lawsuit?
The lawsuit was dismissed after TraxNYC issued a public apology, removed all infringing content, and agreed to stop using 50 Cent’s likeness or name in connection with its products.
Is there still legal risk for TraxNYC or similar jewelers?
While this lawsuit was settled without a cash payment, the legal precedent—and the reputational impact—serve as a warning to avoid similar publicity and trademark violations in the future.
Can jewelers use celebrity names or likeness to sell products?
No, not without the explicit, written permission of the celebrity. Unauthorized use under false implication of affiliation can lead to lawsuits and substantial legal or financial penalties.
Conclusion
The 50 Cent vs. TraxNYC case is a modern example of how celebrities are increasingly vigilant about protecting their image, and how legal enforcement can drive better practices across industries. As the jewelry and fashion world continues to use social media for promotion, clear boundaries around likeness, copyright, and endorsement should always be respected.
