Cuban comedian Alexis Valdés took to Facebook on Monday to address accusations of physical aggression against actress Zajaris Fernández during a confrontation that occurred on Sunday, July 20, at a Miami bar, coinciding with the World Cup 2026 final.
In a brief video lasting just over two minutes, Valdés refrained from naming Zajaris directly or providing a detailed account of the incident, but he firmly denied the allegations: "At no point have I hit anyone, as I dislike violence and do not support it."
Valdés focused his message on denouncing what he termed "media bullying" and "defamation" on social media, emphasizing that such verbal violence "destroys many lives in our society and has become normalized, yet it is not normal."
Claims of Media Manipulation and Defamation
The comedian also criticized those who, according to him, exploit others' scandals for personal gain: "I have never struck anyone and am completely against the manipulation, distortion, defamation, and media abuse that some individuals use to mercilessly tarnish others' reputations."
Contrasting sharply with Valdés's account, Zajaris Fernández offered her version of events in a 31-minute Instagram live session early Monday, July 20.
According to Fernández, it was Claudia Valdés, the comedian's partner, who initially approached her table, requesting her to leave: "Can you kindly leave the area where we are?"
Upon refusal, Valdés allegedly confronted her multiple times, accusing her of being an ally of broadcaster Alex Otaola, maligning his daughters, and labeling her a "drug addict," an accusation Fernández vehemently denied: "I do not consume alcohol. I have never had a drink in my life."
Allegations of Physical Confrontation
Fernández claimed that when she attempted to record the incident on her phone, Valdés knocked it out of her hands twice, damaging the screen and rear camera, and pushed her, prompting others to intervene: "People had to step in to separate him, to get him off me," she recounted.
Authorities were called to the scene, documented the incident, and instructed Alexis and Claudia Valdés to leave the premises. No arrests were made, as Fernández chose not to pursue them despite her lawyer's advice.
Financial Dispute at the Core?
Fernández indicated that the root of the conflict was financial: "The only issue we might have is over some money, nothing else," referring to a debt she claims Valdés has owed her for years.
She also refuted the allegation of collaborating with Otaola: "I haven't spoken to Otaola in two years now. Yet, I continue to support his ideals, those that relate to me." Otaola himself confirmed the incident on Instagram and affirmed that the two have not communicated for two years.
The rift between Valdés and Otaola dates back to 2022, when the broadcaster accused Valdés of underpaying artists, leading to ongoing hostilities that have divided segments of the Cuban exile community in Miami.
Fernández characterized Valdés's behavior as "abusive," likening it to tactics used by the Cuban regime: "Today, you exhibited a socialist communist attitude, abusive, you broke my phone."
The bar reportedly had security cameras that captured the entire incident, a fact Fernández highlighted repeatedly during her broadcast. The police report on the incident is expected to be available by August 2, roughly two weeks after the altercation.
Fernández concluded her live session with a statement encapsulating her stance: "Down with the dictatorship and those who act like dictators, from whatever side they may be."
Key Questions About the Alexis Valdés and Zajaris Fernández Incident
What did Alexis Valdés say about the accusations?
Alexis Valdés denied all accusations, stating that he did not physically harm anyone and expressed his disapproval of violence.
What are Zajaris Fernández's claims about the incident?
Zajaris Fernández alleges that Valdés physically confronted her, including knocking her phone out of her hand and pushing her, leading to others intervening.
What is said to be the cause of the altercation between Valdés and Fernández?
Fernández suggests a financial dispute may be at the heart of their conflict, citing a longstanding debt owed by Valdés.