Who is Gabriella Zungia?
Gabriella Zuniga, identified in media reports as a “Nevada OnlyFans woman,” is actively involved in adult content creation, with a notable presence on platforms like OnlyFans and Instagram under the handle @sheiskarli. This background was highlighted by Sharpe’s attorney, suggesting her public persona may be relevant to the case’s public perception. Specific details about her age and personal history are limited, but reports indicate she was 19 when she met Sharpe in 2023, making her approximately 21 at the time of filing the lawsuit.
Lawsuit Details
Filed on April 20, 2025, in Clark County, Nevada, the lawsuit accuses Shannon Sharpe of sexual assault, battery, and intentional infliction of emotional distress, seeking $50 million in damages. Zuniga, initially identified as Jane Doe in court documents, claims their relationship, which began in 2023 after meeting at a Los Angeles gym, turned abusive. Key allegations include:
- Two specific instances of sexual assault: one in October 2024 and another in January 2025.
- Unauthorized recording and sharing of intimate videos, notably referenced in connection with a September 2024 incident where Sharpe was heard engaging in sexual activity during an Instagram Live, which Zuniga found humiliating.
- Claims of emotional manipulation and coercion, painting a picture of a relationship that started consensually but became violent.
Zuniga is represented by attorney Tony Buzbee, known for high-profile cases, which adds to the lawsuit’s visibility.
Defendant’s Response: Shannon Sharpe’s Defense
Shannon Sharpe, a Pro Football Hall of Famer and current ESPN analyst hosting “First Take” and the “Club Shay Shay” podcast, has denied all allegations through his attorney, Lanny J. Davis. The defense strategy includes:
- Release of explicit text messages purportedly sent by Zuniga, which Sharpe’s team claims demonstrate a consensual and sexual relationship. Examples include:
- October 7, 2023: “I want you to put a dog collar around my neck and choke me with it while you’re f–king me.”
- January 1, 2025: “I know u miss this big juicy a– … $25k for each cheek.”
- August 11, 2024: “You better crave it ur gonna be stuck with it 4 life after you put a big black baby in me.”
- November 23, 2023: “I wanna put my tongue in your a–hole and then marry u.” These messages, released publicly, suggest Zuniga initiated and engaged in explicit roleplay, contradicting her assault claims.
- Accusations of blackmail, with Sharpe’s team alleging Zuniga used a secretly recorded video of a consensual encounter, believed to be edited, as leverage. They claim the full, unedited footage has not been provided, suggesting manipulation.
- Description of the lawsuit as a “blatant and cynical attempt to shake down Mr. Sharpe for millions,” particularly noting its timing. Reports indicate Sharpe was on the verge of signing a media deal worth over $100 million (Front Office Sports), which may have motivated the lawsuit’s filing.
Sharpe has continued his professional commitments, appearing on “First Take” without discussing the lawsuit, signaling an intent to maintain normalcy amid the controversy.
Flip the page for Ms. Zungia twerk video and photos.
