'Love & Hip Hop' star says brawl was overblown

ATLANTA - Reality star Benzino says reports were overblown about a massive brawl that included "Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta" cast members during a recent filming of the VH1 reality show.

Benzino, whose real name is Raymond Scott, said in an interview Friday that what happened was an "isolated" matter. He said the argument late Wednesday night started between his former girlfriend Karlie Redd and his fiance, Althea Hart.

It came during the opening of a new nightclub in downtown Atlanta, owned by Benzino and Stevie J, the Grammy-winning record producer who also stars on the hit reality show.

Atlanta Police Sgt. Greg Lyon said there were no criminal acts reported to them from the argument.

"Everything was sensationalized," Benzino said. "There were no bottles thrown, no fists were thrown, no guns were pulled out."

VH1 declined to comment Friday. The cameras were rolling Wednesday, Benzino said.

Redd said in a statement that media outlets clearly have some "misinformation."

"The reality is we are in a time when everyone wants their shine; their few minutes of fame - and I get that, but I assure you I was not involved in any fighting nor was I knocked out," she said.

Benzino, a former co-owner of The Source magazine, said a friend of cast member Joseline Hernandez was injured with a gash on her head. He also said Redd and Hart hurled drinks at one another.

The "Love & Hip Hop" series is known for its over-the-top drama and fights - making it a ratings success, but also a target for criticism. The fourth season of the show's New York series ended last month. The third season of the Atlanta spinoff debuts in May.

Benzino says about 400 people attended the event.