by Lil Tjay may have just lost some future performance money. The Bronx-bred rapper, known for his melodic flow and street-driven storytelling, has found himself in hot water once again, this time with one of the most iconic venues in the world. The “Calling My Phone” artist was officially banned from Madison Square Garden following an explosive altercation during a high-profile boxing event.
The incident occurred on Friday, February 14, 2025, at MSG, where a WBO lightweight championship fight between Keyshawn Davis and Denys Berinchyk took place. According to multiple reports, including TMZ, Lil Tjay and his crew attempted to access the exclusive ringside area but were denied due to lack of proper clearance. Things escalated quickly, leading to a tense exchange between the rapper and security personnel. At the peak of the confrontation, Lil Tjay allegedly spat in the face of a security guard, a move that instantly turned a heated argument into a scuffle.
Madison Square Garden operates under strict security protocols, and they don’t take kindly to disruptive or aggressive behavior. Following the incident, officials at MSG wasted no time enforcing their policies, issuing an immediate and indefinite ban on Lil Tjay from all MSG properties. This means the rapper won’t just miss out on future boxing events; he’s also barred from concerts, Knicks and Rangers games, and any major events held at the historic venue.
A statement from MSG representatives reinforced their zero-tolerance stance:“Madison Square Garden is committed to ensuring a safe and respectful environment for all guests, staff, and performers. Any form of aggressive or disruptive behavior will not be tolerated, and violations of our policies will result in immediate action.”
For Lil Tjay, this latest controversy only adds to a growing list of challenges. The rapper has had a turbulent past few years, including legal troubles and an ongoing recovery from a near-fatal shooting in 2022. While he’s managed to stay relevant in music, frequently dropping singles and securing major collaborations, incidents like this could have lasting consequences on his career and industry relationships.
Lil Tjay has yet to release an official statement regarding the ban, though speculation is swirling on social media about potential legal ramifications or damage control efforts. Some fans are defending him, arguing that security may have provoked the situation, while others are calling for him to take accountability. With upcoming projects and performances in the pipeline, how Lil Tjay handles this situation could impact his ability to book major venues and maintain industry credibility.
