Who's the metal drummer that cost Elon Musk $55B

Published February 2nd, 2024 - 01:12 GMT
Elon Musk
Elon Musk - AFP

ALBAWABA - In a surprising turn of events, Elon Musk, the iconic American entrepreneur, has faced a substantial setback in what is now dubbed one of the most expensive legal battles in U.S. history. 

The defeat came at the hands of a former heavy metal drummer, leading to a staggering $56 billion loss. Eric Talley, a corporate law professor at Columbia Law School, emphasized that Musk's name will resonate in corporate law history, becoming a case study for future students.

Richard Tornetta initiated the legal clash in 2018 when he possessed a mere nine Tesla shares. After years of legal wrangling, the case landed in court in late 2022, with Tuesday marking a significant turning point. The Delaware court ruled in favor of Tornetta, deeming the colossal bonus agreement unfair to other Tesla shareholders and subsequently invalidating it.

Beyond the courtroom drama, Tornetta appears to be an everyday car enthusiast, as evidenced by his social media presence. A video detailing the intricacies of burning his eyebrows and glimpses of his drumming days with the now-inactive metal band "Dawn of Correction" offer a humanizing perspective on the man behind the lawsuit.

Musk's ardent social media followers have decried the lawsuit as a 'justice absurdity.' Concurrently, they engage in speculation regarding Tornetta's motives and political affiliations, questioning how a seemingly modest investor could wield such influential power.

Reflecting on the outcome, Eric Talley shared his insights, stating, "Tornetta's name is now etched in corporate law history. My students will delve into the Tornetta and Musk case for the next decade, unraveling its complexities and implications."

Expressing dissatisfaction with the Delaware court's decision, Musk has opted to relocate his company to Texas. Additionally, he has issued a call to refrain from establishing companies in Delaware, showcasing his discontent with the legal environment there.

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