Popeyes Chicken has terminated its partnership with WNBA player DiJonai Carrington following the controversy surrounding her alleged altercation with Sophie Cunningham.
The decision comes shortly after Wilson Sports ended its partnership with Carrington, adding another major brand to the growing fallout surrounding the player.
Popeyes, one of Carrington’s hometown favorites, said the decision was made after reviewing the incident and determining that the player no longer represented the image and values the company expects from 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“It is clear that she assaulted Sophie Cunningham, and as a brand ambassador for our brand, she no longer represents our values,” said Mr. Bruno, CEO of Popeyes Chicken.
Bruno said the company expects its ambassadors to conduct themselves responsibly, especially when representing the brand in public.
“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 move means Carrington will no longer participate in promotional campaigns, advertisements, appearances or other activities connected to Popeyes.
The controversy surrounding Carrington has attracted widespread attention following the alleged confrontation with Cunningham. What began as an incident involving two basketball players has now spilled into the business world, with brands allegedly reconsidering their relationships with Carrington.
Popeyes’ decision is particularly notable because of Carrington’s connection to the restaurant. The brand had become a familiar part of her public image, making the termination another significant development in the aftermath of the controversy.
Fans have been divided over the situation. Some believe the matter should remain within the basketball world and argue that sponsorship deals should not be affected by incidents involving athletes. Others believe companies have every right to decide whether a public figure continues to represent their brand.
For Popeyes, Bruno said the decision was ultimately about maintaining the company’s standards.
“We appreciate everything she has done for us, but we have to stand by our values,” Bruno said. “When someone represents this brand, we expect them to understand the responsibility that comes with it.”
The decision follows the fictionalized Wilson Sports termination and adds to the mounting pressure Carrington is facing in the commercial side of her career.
The situation could also raise questions about whether other companies connected to Carrington will reconsider their partnerships. Sponsorship agreements can be an important part of an athlete’s profile, particularly when a player has developed a recognizable public image outside of basketball.
For now, Popeyes has made its position clear and does not appear ready to reverse the decision.
Carrington has not publicly commented on the termination.
The latest development adds another dramatic chapter to the ongoing controversy surrounding the alleged incident with Cunningham, as Carrington’s relationship with major brands continues to come under scrutiny.