Popeyes Chicken has ended its partnership with WNBA star DiJonai Carrington following the controversy surrounding her alleged altercation with Sophie Cunningham.
The decision comes shortly after Wilson Sports also terminated its partnership with Carrington, adding another major brand to the growing list of companies distancing themselves from the player.
According to Popeyes CEO Mr. Bruno, the company reviewed the situation and decided Carrington could no longer continue as one of its brand ambassadors.
“It is clear that she assaulted Sophie Cunningham, and as a brand ambassador for our brand, she no longer represents our values,” Bruno said.
The company had previously worked with Carrington on promotional campaigns and other brand activities. However, Bruno said the latest controversy forced Popeyes to reconsider the relationship.
“She should have acted responsibly because we don’t stand for what she did. Therefore, we are terminating all contracts with her,” Bruno added.
The announcement represents another blow to Carrington’s commercial profile. Her relationship with Wilson was already brought to an end following the incident, and the Popeyes decision now adds another recognizable name to the fallout.
The controversy has attracted attention far beyond the basketball court. Fans have debated the confrontation between Carrington and Cunningham, with some defending Carrington while others have criticized her alleged actions.
Popeyes, however, said it did not want the controversy associated with its brand.
Bruno said the company expects its ambassadors to understand that representing a major brand comes with additional responsibilities.
“We want people who represent Popeyes to understand that their actions matter,” he said. “We simply cannot ignore something like this and continue as if nothing happened.”
Carrington’s connection to Popeyes made the announcement particularly notable. The restaurant has long been associated with her hometown and had become part of the athlete’s public image.
The partnership termination means Carrington will no longer appear in Popeyes advertising or promotional material under the agreement.
The latest development has also prompted speculation about whether additional sponsors could follow Wilson and Popeyes. With brands increasingly careful about the public figures they associate with, controversy surrounding an athlete can quickly become a commercial problem.
Carrington now faces questions about how the incident could affect her future endorsement opportunities.
Supporters of the player argue that an athlete should not lose commercial relationships over a single incident, while critics say companies are entitled to protect their reputation and decide who represents them.
Popeyes has indicated that it is not currently considering a return to the partnership.
“We wish her the best, but this is where we have to draw the line,” Bruno said.
Carrington has not commented publicly on Popeyes’ decision.
The termination leaves the WNBA star facing another major setback outside basketball as the controversy surrounding her alleged confrontation with Cunningham continues to generate attention.
