American R&B singer Chris Brown has pleaded guilty to affray over a violent attack at a London nightclub in 2023, bringing an end to part of a high-profile criminal case.

Brown admitted the offence during a brief hearing at Southwark Crown Court on Friday. Prosecutors subsequently dropped the more serious charges of assault, attempted grievous bodily harm (GBH) and possession of an offensive weapon, namely a tequila bottle.

According to prosecutors, the incident occurred on February 19, 2023, at the Tape nightclub in London’s Mayfair district. Brown was accused of attacking music producer Abe Diaw, allegedly striking him several times on the head with a glass bottle before chasing, pushing him to the ground and kicking him. The victim was treated in hospital for head and knee injuries.

Brown’s co-defendant

Brown’s co-defendant, Omololu Akinlolu, popularly known as Hoody Baby, also pleaded guilty to affray. The assault and attempted GBH charges against him were also withdrawn.

The Metropolitan Police described the incident as a “disgraceful, unprovoked assault,” while the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said the attack was unacceptable and reaffirmed that no one is above the law.

Affray, which involves using or threatening unlawful violence that causes fear for public safety, carries a maximum prison sentence of three years under UK law.

Judge Tony Baumgartner adjourned sentencing until October 26, 2026, and allowed Brown to remain on bail, permitting him to continue travelling for his international tour on the condition that he returns to the UK before sentencing.

Brown, known for hit songs including Loyal, Look At Me Now and With You, greeted fans and signed autographs outside the courthouse after the hearing.

The latest conviction adds to Brown’s legal history. In 2009, he pleaded guilty to assaulting then-girlfriend Rihanna, receiving five years’ probation and community service. He later described the incident as something that would “haunt” him forever.