URGENT UPDATE: Major league star Shohei Ohtani and his agent Nez Balelo are taking swift action to dismiss a lawsuit filed against them last month, which claims their involvement led to the termination of a Hawaii real estate investor from a $240 million luxury housing project on the Big Island’s Hapuna Coast. The lawsuit was initiated on August 8, 2023, by developer Kevin J. Hayes Sr. and real estate broker Tomoko Matsumoto, alleging “abuse of power” and other serious accusations.
The legal battle centers around claims that Ohtani and Balelo interfered with a joint venture involving the use of Ohtani’s name, image, and likeness in marketing the development at the prestigious Mauna Kea Resort. According to filings submitted by Ohtani’s legal team on September 10, 2023, the plaintiffs allegedly exploited Ohtani’s celebrity status without proper authorization, leading to their own dismissal from the project by joint venture majority owner Kingsbarn Realty Capital.
In an eye-opening statement, Ohtani’s lawyers argue that the plaintiffs misused his likeness to promote their own real estate project, stating, “They engaged in this self-dealing without authorization.” They further emphasized that Balelo’s actions to protect Ohtani were entirely justified, labeling the lawsuit a “desperate attempt” by Hayes and Matsumoto to deflect attention from their alleged misconduct and “myriad of failures.”
“Nez Balelo has always prioritized Shohei Ohtani’s best interests,” a representative for Ohtani and Balelo said. The lawyer condemned the lawsuit as “frivolous,” asserting that it is an unmerited attack against a globally recognized athlete who is a three-time MVP and plays for the defending World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers.
As of now, representatives for Hayes and Matsumoto have not responded to requests for comment, leaving many questions unanswered regarding the legitimacy of the claims. The outcome of this legal dispute could have significant ramifications for all parties involved, particularly for Ohtani, whose brand is tied to his performance on the field and how he is represented off it.
This developing story highlights not only the complexities of celebrity endorsements but also the potential legal pitfalls that can arise in high-stakes real estate ventures. As details unfold, fans and industry watchers alike will be closely monitoring the situation, waiting to see how this dramatic legal confrontation will play out.
Stay tuned for updates on this urgent case as it develops.