Streamer Kai Cenat has been named in a new lawsuit after a man claimed he was punched by one of Cenat's security guards during the Dominican Day Parade in the Bronx last year. The lawsuit was filed by Dustin Batista in Bronx County Supreme Court on June 2, 2026. Batista says he was peacefully attending the parade when the incident happened on July 27, 2025. He has accused Kai Cenat, bodyguard Lamont "Cuddy" Gilbert, talent management company Night Inc., and an unnamed security company of being responsible. The claims have not been proven in court.
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Man claims Kai Cenat's bodyguard assaulted him during Bronx parade
According to the lawsuit, Batista says he was at the Dominican Day Parade near East 210th Street in the Bronx when Gilbert suddenly punched him. He claims he did not threaten, attack, or provoke anyone before the alleged incident.
The complaint says Gilbert was working as part of Kai Cenat's security team at the event. His job was reportedly to protect Cenat, help manage the crowd, and make sure the streamer could safely move through the parade.
Batista says the alleged punch caused him physical pain, emotional distress, medical expenses, lost income, and made it harder for him to enjoy his normal life. However, the lawsuit does not mention a specific injury or medical diagnosis. It also does not say how much money Batista is asking for.
Lawsuit claims Kai Cenat and Night Inc. failed to properly manage security
Besides accusing Gilbert of assault and battery, the lawsuit also tries to hold Kai Cenat, Night Inc., and an unidentified security company legally responsible for what happened.
Batista claims Gilbert was acting as an employee, contractor, or security representative for the other defendants at the time of the incident. Because of that, the lawsuit argues they should also be held responsible for his alleged actions.
Additionally, according to the complaint, Kai Cenat, the unknown security firm, and Night Inc. did not make sure to employ, train, supervise, and manage the security guards appropriately. They also lacked sufficient crowd control and de-escalation techniques for the busy public event.
Night Inc., which has been managing Kai Cenat since its acquisition of LFM Management in 2023, is further said to lack proper background checks on security guards, their training, and qualifications. The complaint features a “John Doe” defendant, who will be substituted by the identity of the security company in the future during the court process.
Seven claims have been made against him, including charges of assault, negligence, reckless behavior, and negligent hiring/supervision. Batista is claiming compensation not only for his losses but also punitive damages, legal fees, and interest.
The lawsuit only presents Batista's version of events. None of the allegations have been proven in court, and Kai Cenat, Night Inc., and the other defendants have not been found liable. The case will move through the legal process before any final decision is made.