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Sean “Diddy” Combs, rapper and founder of Bad Boy Records, is seeking to have a civil lawsuit filed against him dismissed.

The lawsuit, brought forth by Rodney “Lil Rod” Jones, a former producer and videographer, accuses Combs of sexual assault, sexual harassment and drugging. In a recent legal manoeuvre, Combs has moved to dismiss the case, arguing that the lawsuit is nothing more than an attempt to generate media attention and secure a settlement.

The motion to dismiss, filed in federal court in the Southern District of New York on August 26, was obtained by PEOPLE. Combs’ legal team asserts that Jones’ allegations are laden with “legally meaningless claims and blatant falsehoods.”

According to the motion, the lawsuit is characterised by “hyperbole and lurid theatrics,” and fails to present any substantial or actionable claims against Combs or his business affiliates.

Combs, 54, contends that Jones is using the lawsuit to “promote his brand and profit from exposure,” citing a video posted by Jones on social media where he is seen laughing while discussing the lawsuit.

The Bad Boy Records founder is challenging the validity of Jones’ claims, particularly the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organisations (RICO) Act allegations, arguing that Jones has not demonstrated a “pattern of racketeering activity.”

Combs also seeks the dismissal of claims under the Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA). He argues that Jones has failed to prove any threats, force, fraud, or coercion. One of the central arguments in Combs’ motion is that the sexual assault allegations lack specific details, such as the time, place, and nature of the alleged incidents.

Combs’ attorney, Erica Wolff, claimed, “Mr Jones’s lawsuit is pure fiction — a shameless attempt to create media hype and extract a quick settlement. There was no RICO conspiracy, and Mr Jones was not threatened, groomed, assaulted, or trafficked. We look forward to proving — in a court of law — that all of Mr Jones’s claims are made up and must be dismissed.”

In response to the legal filings, Jones spoke to Rolling Stone on August 27, describing the lawsuit’s impact on his life and career. He reported facing threats and a significant downturn in his professional opportunities, alleging that many have distanced themselves from him due to his legal battle with Combs.

Jones also claimed to have been “blackballed” in the music industry, and said the situation has led to severe emotional distress, including suicidal thoughts.