Shannon Sharpe Accuser Demands to Be Called 'The Boss' Following Settlement

The former OnlyFans influencer retired from the platform in July, just before the settlement was announced.

Instagram/gabriellazuinga/LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - APRIL 21: Shannon Sharpe attends Netflix & WWE "Monday Night RAW" Brunch at MGM Grand Hotel & Casino on April 21, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Instagram/gabriellazuinga/David Becker/Getty Images for Netflix

Gabriella Zuniga, the former OnlyFans model who accused Shannon Sharpe of sexual assault and rape, wants to go by a new name, "The Boss."

On Saturday (September 6), Zuniga posted a mirror selfie on Instagram, showing her wearing a classic black suit and oversized frames. "From now on, when you see me, refer to me as Gabriella Zuniga, Ma'am, or Boss," the caption reads.

The post comes just over a month after Zuniga announced her retirement from OnlyFans. That announcement came just before news broke of her settlement with the former professional football player and current podcaster. In her suit, Zuniga sought $50 million in damages, including emotional distress and suffering. The terms of the settlement were not disclosed.

Zuniga, who was represented by Tony Buzbee in the lawsuit, alleged that throughout a "rocky consensual relationship" with Sharpe for two years, the retired NFL player recorded their sexual encounters, sometimes sharing them without her consent. The woman also accused Sharpe of rape during multiple instances from late 2024 and early 2025.

Sharpe denied Zuniga's claims and accused Buzbee of extortion but resolved the lawsuit in July. In a statement, the attorney said that "after protracted and respectful negotiations, we have reached a mutually agreed‑upon resolution. All matters have now been addressed satisfactorily, and the matter is closed. The lawsuit will thus be dismissed with prejudice."

After settling the civil lawsuit, Sharpe was fired from ESPN but continues to host his podcasts Nightcap, with Chad 'Ochocinco' Johnson, and Club Shay Shay. During an August episode of Nightcap, Sharpe joked that his "pockets are light" while seeking a payment from Johnson.

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