
American rapper Kid Cudi, born Scott Mescudi, testified in May 2025 in the ongoing trial of music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs, providing details about a 2012 incident in which his car was allegedly set on fire.
The testimony is part of a broader legal case against Combs, who faces charges related to racketeering, sex trafficking, and other allegations stemming from a federal investigation in New York. Kid Cudi’s account corroborates claims made by Combs’ former girlfriend, Gina Huynh, who alleged in a 2024 court filing that Combs ordered the torching of Cudi’s vehicle during a period of personal conflict.
According to Kid Cudi, the incident occurred outside his Los Angeles home, where his car was deliberately set ablaze, causing significant damage. He testified that the act was linked to tensions involving his past relationship with Cassie Ventura, another of Combs’ former partners, who has been central to the allegations against him. The rapper’s testimony added a high-profile dimension to the trial, drawing attention to Combs’ alleged pattern of coercive behavior. Prosecutors have used the incident to support claims of intimidation and violence, while Combs’ defense team has argued that the evidence is circumstantial and lacks direct proof of his involvement.
The trial has gripped the entertainment industry, with multiple celebrities and former associates of Combs providing statements. Kid Cudi’s testimony, delivered calmly but with emotional weight, has been described as a pivotal moment, highlighting the personal toll of the alleged actions. The case has also reignited discussions about accountability in the music industry, with fans and activists calling for justice for victims. Combs, who has pleaded not guilty, faces significant prison time if convicted. The trial continues to unfold, with further testimonies expected to shed light on the complex web of allegations surrounding the hip-hop icon.