Ramón Ayala, Tony Buzbee Hold Dueling Press Conferences Over Explosive Sexual Assault Lawsuits

Legendary Norteño artist Ramón Ayala and Houston attorney Tony Buzbee held competing press conferences Wednesday, May 13, 2026, as a growing legal battle involving multiple sexual assault lawsuits against Ramón Ayala Jr. continued to intensify in Hidalgo County, Texas.

The lawsuits, filed earlier this year, accuse Ramón Ayala Jr. of repeated sexual assault, harassment, abusive conduct, and drug use while traveling on tour with Ramón Ayala y Sus Bravos del Norte. The suits also allege that Ayala Sr., the band, and affiliated management knowingly enabled the alleged behavior and failed to protect crew members and musicians in order to preserve the organization’s reputation and financial interests. 

During a morning press conference at the McAllen Convention Center, Buzbee — representing plaintiffs identified as John Does #1, #2, and #3 — said a fourth alleged victim has now come forward and another lawsuit is expected to be filed soon. According to Buzbee, the combined lawsuits seek more than $50 million in damages. 

“We brought this case seeking justice; we have the receipts and the proof,” Buzbee said. “I’m counting on the Hidalgo County District Attorney to act. We are asking for action, an investigation.” 

Buzbee also presented what he described as “shocking video and photographic evidence” allegedly documenting abusive conduct during tours involving the band. 

One of the plaintiffs, bassist Eliud Gonzalez — previously identified in court filings as John Doe #3 — publicly spoke during the conference and described his experience working with the band as traumatic and humiliating.

“Everyone would see it, and no one would say anything for fear of losing their jobs,” Gonzalez said in Spanish. “His conduct aboard that bus was aggressive, nonconsensual, and out of control.” 

Gonzalez further alleged that Ramón Ayala Jr. used his position of power within the organization to intimidate employees.

“Ramón Ayala Jr. went on to tell me, ‘I can assault you right here, and you can’t do absolutely anything because you’re not going to want someone else to take your spot next to your greatest idol, Ramón Ayala,’” Gonzalez claimed. 

Another alleged victim, a former photographer for the band, released a statement during the event saying, “People should not be treated like dogs; that’s how I was treated. I refuse to let this define my worth or silence my truth.” 

The lawsuits, initially filed between February and March 2026, detail allegations that Ayala Jr. engaged in repeated inappropriate conduct toward crew members and musicians while allegedly under the influence of cocaine during tours from 2024 through 2025. Court filings accuse the elder Ayala, the band, and associated companies of negligence, gross negligence, and ratification by allegedly allowing the conduct to continue unchecked. 

Hours later, Ayala Sr. and his legal team held their own press conferencc at Payne Arena in Hidalgo County, firmly denying the accusations and accusing Buzbee of conducting a public “media assault” intended to pressure the defendants into settling the lawsuits. 

Attorneys representing the Ayala organization characterized the allegations as “frivolous” and described the alleged behavior as “extreme horseplay,” denying that any criminal acts occurred. 

In a public statement released ahead of the conference, Ayala defended his reputation and vowed to fight the accusations.

“Throughout my life and career, I have always conducted myself with humility, hard work, honesty, and respect for others,” Ayala said. “I recognize that accusations of this nature are serious, and I have full confidence that the truth will come to light through due legal process.” 

The 80-year-old music icon also addressed the emotional toll the controversy has taken on his family and supporters.

“These allegations have caused deep pain to me, my family, our staff, and the many people who have supported me throughout my life and career,” Ayala stated. 

Ayala added, “I have always believed that truth, justice, and faith prevail, and I place my trust in God and in the legal process.” 

No criminal charges have been filed as of Wednesday evening, though Buzbee publicly called on the Hidalgo County District Attorney’s Office to open a criminal investigation into the allegations. 

The lawsuits remain pending in Hidalgo County District Court, setting the stage for what could become one of the most closely watched legal battles involving a major figure in regional Mexican music.

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