Kevin O’Leary Wins $2.8 Million Defamation Judgment Against BitBoy Crypto

Kevin O’Leary, the famously sharp-tongued investor from Shark Tank, just scored a jaw-dropping $2.8 million legal victory in a federal courtroom, and the crypto world is still buzzing. The case? A defamation battle with former crypto influencer Ben Armstrong, better known to millions as BitBoy Crypto.

Here’s the twist: Armstrong never even properly defended himself. Instead, a federal judge in Florida stepped in and handed down a default judgment after Armstrong’s inflammatory accusations spiraled out of control. At the heart of the matter? Armstrong publicly branded O’Leary a “murderer” over a tragic 2019 boat crash, despite the fact that O’Leary’s wife, Linda, was fully acquitted of any wrongdoing in 2021.

The Numbers That Stunned Everyone

Judge Beth Bloom’s ruling wasn’t just a slap on the wrist—it was a full-force legal hammer. Armstrong was hit with:

• $2 million in punitive damages (the judge’s way of sending a message)
• $750,000 for emotional distress (reflecting the real toll on O’Leary’s life)
• $78,000 for reputational damage

But the story doesn’t end there. Armstrong had tried to undo the default judgment, claiming his mental health struggles and incarceration prevented him from responding. The court wasn’t having it. Judge Bloom saw through the excuses, and the judgment stood.

The Feud That Lit the Fuse

To understand the drama, rewind to 2019. A devastating boat crash on the lake left two people dead. O’Leary’s wife, Linda, was at the helm. After a thorough investigation, she was acquitted in 2021. Case closed—or so everyone thought.

Fast forward to Armstrong’s online rampage. He resurrected the tragedy, claiming O’Leary and his wife “murdered a couple and covered it up.” He didn’t stop there. Armstrong posted O’Leary’s personal phone number, urging his followers to call and harass him. In a now-infamous taunt, he called O’Leary a “rabid dog” and dared critics: “What are you gonna do, sue me?”

Turns out, that’s exactly what Kevin O’Leary did. And on March 26, 2025, Armstrong found out the hard way.

The Real-World Fallout

O’Leary testified that Armstrong’s attacks didn’t just sting—they changed his life. He pointed to increased security measures and restricted access to his studio, all because of fears tied to Armstrong’s massive online following. The emotional distress award reflects the genuine fear and disruption caused by Armstrong’s reckless accusations.

For Armstrong, this judgment is the latest in a series of blows. Already ousted from the HIT Network, he now faces serious financial consequences. The crypto influencer who once commanded millions of followers is now staring down a $2.8 million debt—and a reputation in tatters.

Why This Case Matters

This isn’t just another celebrity feud. It’s a landmark moment for accountability in the wild west of crypto and social media. Armstrong’s case is a stark reminder: words have consequences, especially when they’re weaponized online. For influencers and content creators, the message is clear—reckless accusations and doxxing can land you in court, and the price can be astronomical.

For the crypto community, it’s a cautionary tale about the perils of unchecked influence. Armstrong built his brand on bold claims and viral stunts, but this legal defeat shows that even the loudest voices can be silenced by the law.

The Aftermath: What’s Next?

As of now, Armstrong hasn’t publicly commented on the judgment. Given his financial situation, it’s unclear how he’ll pay the hefty sum. O’Leary, on the other hand, has made it clear he’s not backing down. In a world where online personalities often skate by on controversy, this case sets a new precedent: if you play with fire, you might just get burned—to the tune of millions.

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