Story perspectives

Ohtani Seeks Dismissal of $240M Lawsuit Over Housing Project

9/15/2025

24 3

Summary

Story summary

Shohei Ohtani and agent Nez Balelo seek to dismiss a lawsuit from Hawaii developers Kevin Hayes and Tomoko Matsumoto.
The lawsuit claims "tortious interference" regarding a $240 million luxury housing project on Hawaii's Big Island.
Plaintiffs allege Ohtani's celebrity was exploited, leading to their dismissal from the project.
The defense contends plaintiffs misused Ohtani's name without permission.
Defense attorneys describe the lawsuit as frivolous and a distraction from the plaintiffs' shortcomings.

1 of 1

Story summary

Shohei Ohtani and agent Nez Balelo seek to dismiss a lawsuit from Hawaii developers Kevin Hayes and Tomoko Matsumoto.
The lawsuit claims "tortious interference" regarding a $240 million luxury housing project on Hawaii's Big Island.
Plaintiffs allege Ohtani's celebrity was exploited, leading to their dismissal from the project.
The defense contends plaintiffs misused Ohtani's name without permission.
Defense attorneys describe the lawsuit as frivolous and a distraction from the plaintiffs' shortcomings.