A deleted article on the NY Daily News has resurfaced thanks to the Wayback Machine, intriguing new audiences. The article titled “Alex Rodriguez was set to quit baseball until former drug mole and ex-convict Desiree Perez convinced the Yankees slugger to fight MLB over PED suspension” was available up until October 2024 before it unexpectedly disappeared.
Interest in Roc Nation CEO Desiree Perez’s troubled past has amplified, particularly following a recent federal lawsuit filed against her and Jay-Z’s Roc Nation. This lawsuit, which includes allegations of racketeering and illegal wiretapping, has garnered global attention.
The NY Daily News article provides insight into Desiree Perez, known as a 'Shady Lady', who has a criminal history dating back to her arrest in 1994 for cocaine possession with intent to distribute. Court records reveal that she was part of a drug conspiracy that extended from New York to Florida and Puerto Rico. Convicted alongside co-defendants, Perez cooperated with authorities and ultimately joined the world of entertainment.
By 2002, Perez had begun working directly with Jay-Z, significantly influencing his business ventures, including the 40/40 Club. In subsequent years, as Roc Nation expanded to sports, her role became more prominent.
During the tenure of Alex Rodriguez's controversies with MLB, Perez was a key advisor, influencing business decisions around contracts, notably Robinson Cano's $240 million deal with the Seattle Mariners. However, Rodriguez’s contentious strategies resulted in a significant suspension and strained relationships within MLB.
The resurfaced article has implications for understanding the dynamics within Roc Nation and the connections between past criminal activities, present business dealings, and sports management.
Critics have voiced caution over Perez's associates, including Damon Dash, highlighting concerns about her influence on Jay-Z's business operations and the potential risks involved with her legal past. Rodriguez’s continuing involvement with Perez suggests a need for careful scrutiny of her role in shaping his future.
