Drake has filed a notice of appeal challenging the dismissal of his defamation lawsuit against Universal Music Group.
On October 29, the pop iconâs legal team filed a Notice of Appeal, contesting a federal judgeâs decision on October 9 to dismiss the case.
Judge Vargas wrote in ruling, âThe fact that the Recording was made in the midst of a rap battle is essential to assessing its impact on a reasonable listener. Even apparent statements of fact may assume the character of statements of opinion when made in public debate.â
The judge added, âHeated labor dispute, or other circumstances in which an audience may anticipate the use of epithets, fiery rhetoric or hyperbole.â
Drakeâs attorney shared that they âlook forward to the Court of Appeals reviewing it.â
Meanwhile, his representative told Variety, âThis confirms our intent to appeal, and we look forward to the Court of Appeals reviewing that filing in the coming weeks.â
Drake filed the lawsuit in January 2025, alleging that UMG âintentionally published and promotedâ Kendrick Lamarâs Not Like Us song.
Despite the setback of the October 9 dismissal, Drake remains unstoppable, filing an appeal to further pursue the case.
