A$AP Rocky Declared Not Guilty, Shares Heartfelt Hug with Rihanna— See Rappers’ Reactions
A$AP Rocky is officially a free man after a Los Angeles jury found him "not guilty" on two firearm assault charges.
The rapper, who was facing a possible "24-year sentence", was cleared of all accusations stemming from a 2021 dispute involving his former associate, "Terell “A$AP Relli” Ephron".
The courtroom erupted in emotion following the verdict on "Tuesday, February 18".
In a heartfelt moment caught on camera, Rocky jumped over the gallery wall to embrace his longtime partner Rihanna and his mother.
Overcome with gratitude, the “Praise The Lord” artist turned to Superior Court Judge "Mark Arnold", expressing his appreciation:
“Thank you for saving my life. Thank you, thank you, thank you, your honor.”
A$AP Rocky jumps into the gallery and embraces Rihanna in an emotional moment following the reading of his Not Guilty verdict.🥹❤️
— WhatsOnRap (@WhatsOnRap__) February 19, 2025
pic.twitter.com/43gUDxkg6h
Hip-Hop’s Biggest Names React to A$AP Rocky’s Victory
Rocky’s acquittal sent shockwaves through the hip-hop world, with major artists rallying behind him. 50 Cent, Nicki Minaj, and Kanye West (Ye) were among the first to voice their support.
Rihanna, the mother of Rocky’s two children, took to Instagram to celebrate the moment, writing:
“The glory belongs to God and God alone! Thankful, humbled by his mercy!”
The post quickly gained traction, with fans praising her unwavering support.
Rihanna breaks silence after ASAP Rocky’s ‘Not Guilty’ verdict ❤️ pic.twitter.com/TeVtFey1yr
— WhatsOnRap (@WhatsOnRap__) February 19, 2025
Nicki Minaj echoed Rihanna’s sentiment, sharing a touching tribute on her Instagram Story with the caption: “To God Be The Glory” alongside a family photo of Rocky, Rihanna, and their children, Riot and RZA.
Nicki Minaj congratulates ASAP Rocky & Rihanna for winning his trial via Instagram stories:
— WhatsOnRap (@WhatsOnRap__) February 19, 2025
"To God be the glory" pic.twitter.com/TUl1h90jk1
Kanye West, 50 Cent & The Rap Community Weigh In
Hip-hop mogul Kanye West (Ye), who collaborated with Rocky on the 2015 track “Jukebox Joints”, reacted with a powerful statement.
He posted a "black-and-white image" of Rocky in court, captioned only with a "praying hands emoji". In just "14 hours", the post amassed over "1.6 million likes", proving just how closely the rap world followed the case.
Meanwhile, 50 Cent took a moment from his usual online antics to celebrate. The "G-Unit" boss, known for his bold predictions, reminded fans that he had called Rocky’s victory all along.
“I told [ninja]’s I would bet 500K he was gonna beat it when A$AP Tellie started getting tired of telling. Five days straight… BOOM. Now stay sucker free,”
He wrote on Instagram.
Asap Rocky on FaceTime with 50 Cent after being found not guilty in court pic.twitter.com/lh8KBdkZBi
— WhatsOnRap (@WhatsOnRap__) February 19, 2025
A$AP Rocky’s Future in Hip-Hop
With this legal battle now behind him, A$AP Rocky can refocus on his music and fashion empire. The "Harlem rap star" has yet to speak on what’s next, but fans are already anticipating a triumphant return to the studio.
As hip-hop heavyweights continue to celebrate his freedom, one thing is clear: A$AP Rocky isn’t just walking away from this case—he’s stepping back into the game stronger than ever.