The Gold Club recently responded to a lawsuit, contending that it was the negligence of a third party that resulted in Brandon Sparks being assaulted while watching an "Ultimate Fight" broadcast at the establishment.
As previously reported, Sparks sued the exotic dancing establishment's owner, Fannett Entertainment, along with Kyle Hardin and Andrew Richie, the men who allegedly attacked him.
The suit, filed Sept. 15 in Jefferson County District Court, claims the Gold Club should have prevented the assault.
On Nov. 3 Gold Club answered the suit, contending that the incident was caused by a third party and that defendants Hardin and Richie were not employees of the company.
Court records show that on Sept. 19, 2009, Sparks, "a young, Lamar University student," was attending a party at The Gold Club to watch the fight on pay-per-view, when Hardin and Richie assaulted him from behind.
In his suit, Sparks says that if his attackers were employees, Gold Club was negligent for hiring them, and if the men weren't, Gold Club was negligent for failing to provide proper security.
Gold Club contends in its answer that since the two men were not employees, the establishment is not liable for their actions.
The plaintiff is suing for past and future medical expenses, mental anguish, pain, impairment, disfigurement and lost wages, plus all court costs.
Beaumont attorney J.J. Bragg represents him.
Houston attorney David Escobar of Lorance & Thomas represents Gold Club.
Judge Gary Sanderson, 6oth District Court, is assigned to the case.
Case No. B190-919