Behind the Scenes: Lance Rivera Reveals the Real Story Behind the Jay-Z Stabbing Controversy

 Former music executive Lance 'Un' Rivera is addressing the controversy surrounding his stabbing incident 24 years ago, vehemently denying any involvement by Jay-Z.

 Rivera, most recognized for his association with Notorious B.I.G., recently participated in an interview with "Vlad TV" where he openly discussed the highly-publicized stabbing. Contrary to popular belief, he asserts that Jay-Z, who was present at the nightclub that night, was not responsible for the assault that left him injured with a substantial blade. Rivera affirms that Jay-Z's character aligns with the consensus that he would not engage in such behavior, yet he refrains from revealing the actual perpetrator.

The origins of this incident trace back to December 2, 1999, when Rivera was attacked while leaving a release party for Q-Tip's album "Amplified." According to Rivera, Jay-Z and other Roc-A-Fella Records members approached him, accusing him of leaking Hov's critically acclaimed "Vol. 3... Life and Times of S. Carter" album. Witness testimonies allegedly identified Jay-Z as the assailant. Although Jay-Z voluntarily presented himself to the New York City Police Department for questioning, he consistently maintained his innocence.

Ultimately, Jay-Z faced arrest on felony assault charges, and following an arduous legal battle spanning two years, he eventually pleaded guilty in 2001. While he managed to avoid imprisonment, the terms of his three-year probation prevented him from leaving New York state—a significant career setback considering the commercial success he had achieved with his Grammy-winning 1998 album "Vol. 2... Hard Knock Life." The circumstances surrounding the incident have perpetuated ongoing speculation, notably captured in Nas' track "Ether," where he suggests that Jay-Z took the blame to protect a friend.

Rivera's recent statements lend support to this theory by absolving Jay-Z of responsibility.