Rapper French Montana is embroiled in a legal battle after two men from Switzerland filed a lawsuit accusing him of stealing a watch worth over $1 million, with Montana denying the claims and preparing a countersuit. The case highlights the complexities of celebrity interactions and financial disputes in the entertainment industry.
Justo Obiang and Samir Gato, the plaintiffs, submitted the lawsuit on Thursday, October 17, 2025, alleging that French Montana failed to return a luxury watch he borrowed under false pretenses. They are seeking at least $1 million in damages for claims including fraudulent misrepresentation, conversion, and unjust enrichment, arguing that Montana’s actions have caused significant financial loss and breach of trust. The legal documents outline a series of events that began with a meeting years prior and escalated during a planned gathering in Egypt.
The relationship between the parties dates back to 2015, when Obiang and Gato first encountered Montana after a concert in Geneva, Switzerland. They maintained occasional contact over the years, which led to arrangements for a meet-up in Egypt in 2024. According to the lawsuit, the encounter was intended as a friendly reunion, but it quickly turned contentious over the exchange of personal property.
Prior to Montana’s arrival in Egypt, the plaintiffs claim that he requested to trade watches with Obiang, but when refused, he asked to borrow the watch for 30 days to wear at Paris Fashion Week, promising to return it promptly. To secure the loan, Montana provided another watch as collateral, assuring them it was valued at over $1 million. This agreement, they say, was based on Montana’s celebrity status and their prior acquaintance.
However, Obiang and Gato allege that after the 30-day period, Montana never returned the borrowed watch despite multiple attempts to contact him. They further contend that the collateral watch he gave them is counterfeit, adding allegations of fraud to the case. The original watch, initially high-valued, has since appreciated to over $1 million due to market trends, raising the stakes in the lawsuit.
In response, French Montana’s attorney, Steve Haddad, has firmly denied all accusations, labeling them as unfounded and misleading. Haddad stated that Montana intends to countersue Obiang and Gato for defamation and other claims, asserting that the watch was accepted as payment for media appearances and promotional activities Montana performed in Egypt at Obiang’s invitation. Montana’s side emphasizes that he fulfilled his obligations and that the lawsuit is an attempt to exploit his fame for financial gain.
The case underscores broader issues of trust and accountability in high-profile circles, where personal dealings often lack formal contracts. If the lawsuit proceeds, it could influence how similar disputes involving celebrities and valuable assets are adjudicated. Both parties are gearing up for a potentially lengthy court process, with Montana’s team expressing confidence in vindicating his position.
As the legal proceedings develop, the outcome may impact how artists manage their interpersonal and business relationships, serving as a cautionary tale about the importance of clear agreements to prevent misunderstandings and legal conflicts.