In an unexpected turn of events, the renowned artist Future continues to be embroiled in a legal battle over the distinctive “Limo-Jet” featured in his 2024 music video “Arabi,” with no signs of resolution on the horizon.
The highly regarded hip-hop artist, along with Egyptian celebrity Mohammed Ramadan and Lebanese-Canadian singer Sari Abboud, is currently facing a legal challenge from MIK Corporation, a Minnesota-based company that owns the unique jet-converted limousine.
MIK alleges that the trio used the exclusive vehicle without authorization, damaged its exterior paintwork during the video shoot, and violated an agreement that explicitly stated, “don’t use footage without our okay.”
The music video for “Arabi” was released in February 2024 and swiftly garnered over 53 million views. However, MIK contends that they did not approve its release, and are now seeking damages.
The LimoJet, which has the appearance of a private jet mounted onto wheels, is a prized possession for MIK. The company asserts that it holds complete trademark rights to the vehicle and rents it out for special events.
In April 2023, representatives for Ramadan expressed interest in using the vehicle for shows and visited it in Des Plaines, Illinois. All parties reportedly agreed not to film or damage it, but MIK alleges that both actions occurred.
The lawsuit accuses the artists of fraud, contract violations, negligence, and unauthorized use of the LimoJet’s image for commercial purposes. Future’s Wilburn Holding Co. is also a target of the legal action.
During a hearing on Friday, August 8, U.S. District Judge Matthew Kennelly rejected dismissal attempts from Abboud.
Judge Kennelly advised both parties to collaborate and formulate a discovery and pretrial schedule, with another court date already scheduled.
