Method Man, NYPD deny reports of Staten Island gym brawl

Method Man, a rapper and former member of the Wu-Tang Clan, is denying allegations of assault.

The music producer's rep denied reports published in the New York Post on Thursday that he had punched a man seven times at Crunch Fitness Gym on Staten Island.

The Post's article claimed the altercation was between Smith and Patrick Sokoya an alleged ex-boyfriend of Smith's daughter.

"Mr. Smith categorically denies the allegations as reported and has not been the subject of an arrest by any law enforcement agency," Nicole Perna, a representative for Method Man, whose legal name is Clifford Smith, Jr., wrote in an email to USA TODAY Thursday.

The New York Police Department also confirmed to USA TODAY via email Friday that there was no arrest report for the incident.

Smith was booked in 2009 on charges of tax evasion − though the matter was swiftly resolved when he wrote a restitution check on the spot, according to Billboard.

The Wu-Tang Clan, one of Staten Island's most famous exports, is considered a pillar of the genre. The group's 1998 album "Wu-Tang Forever" was nominated for a best rap album Grammy and their anthemic track C.R.E.A.M. remains a favorite over 30 years after its original release.