Killer Mike Arrested After Winning Awards from 2024 Grammys

US rapper Killer Mike, born Michael Render, downplayed his recent detention at the 2024 Grammys, calling it "a speed bump" on a triumphant night where he clinched three major rap categories, according to BBC.

Despite a brief encounter with law enforcement, the 48-year-old artist remained upbeat, emphasizing that the incident did not overshadow the celebratory occasion.

The Los Angeles Police Department confirmed Killer Mike's detainment, citing a physical altercation within the Crypto.com Arena on Sunday.

The rapper, recognized by his real name, faced a misdemeanor battery charge, subsequently being released with a court appearance scheduled later this month.

In his initial comments after release, Killer Mike shared, "We hit a speed bump, and then we head back to the party, man.

We partied all night. Ain't nothing had happened, man. But we are winners. That's it," addressing an Atlanta-based radio show on Monday.

Attributing the incident to "overzealous security," Killer Mike dismissed allegations of wrongdoing.

Video footage depicted the Run the Jewels rapper being escorted by police officers from the arena, with onlookers reportedly chanting "Free Mike."

Killer Mike Arrest: Security Guard Allegations and Denial

A senior law enforcement source revealed that a female security guard accused Killer Mike of injuring her during a confrontation inside the Crypto.com Arena.

The guard alleged that after the rapper's 2024 Grammys wins, he encountered her near an entrance, Rolling Stone reports.

Requesting Render's tickets and directing him to a security checkpoint, the guard claimed he attempted to circumvent her, resulting in a push that caused her to fall, injuring her hand and fingers.

In response, Killer Mike denied the allegations, describing the situation as confusion about which entrance to use.

He expressed confidence in being cleared of any wrongdoing, asserting that the incident had been overblown.

"As you can imagine, there was a lot going on, and there was some confusion around which door my team and I should enter. We experienced an over-zealous security guard, but my team and I have the utmost confidence that I will ultimately be cleared of all wrongdoing," Render says.

"The situation has been overblown, but we are confident that the facts of the case when laid bare, will show that Mike did not commit the alleged offense, and he will be exonerated," a source in the artist's camp added.

Grammy Wins and Longstanding Career

With a career spanning over two decades, Killer Mike's impact on the music industry has been significant, People noted.

At the 2024 Grammys, he nearly swept all four rap categories, securing awards for Best Rap Album, Best Rap Song, and Best Rap Performance.

Despite the controversy, Killer Mike expressed gratitude for the recognition and emphasized the importance of perseverance in the face of challenges.

The rapper, known for his debut on Outkast's 2000 album Stankonia, has consistently spoken out about the challenges faced by hip-hop.

In a candid interview with GQ in December, he highlighted the tendency to criticize hip-hop, considering it "low-hanging fruit." He urged a deeper understanding and appreciation for the genre's growth.

In addition to his musical achievements, Killer Mike has been an outspoken activist for his community.

During the riots following George Floyd's killing in May 2020, he delivered a tearful address, calling for strategic action and civic engagement to bring about positive change.

In the aftermath of the 2024 Grammys incident, Killer Mike remains focused on his music and the broader issues affecting the hip-hop community, reiterating his commitment to both artistic expression and social advocacy.

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Bert Hoover

WATCH: Killer Mike arrested by LAPD after altercation at the Grammy Awards - From ABC7