STREAM EXCLUSIVE ORIGINALS

Joey Bada$ to Continue Tour Despite Assault Charge

Officials in New Zealand will allow rapper to perform following fight in Australia.

Maybe it's his political connects.

New Zealand authorities confirmed Tuesday (Jan. 6) that Joey Bada$ will not have his visa revoked — even with a pending court appearance for an alleged violent outburst — and that he is allowed to enter the nation freely, as scheduled, for his B4DAMONEY tour.

Rachel Purdom, a spokeswoman for the immigration officials, said that as far as NZ is concerned, the Brooklyn-bred rapper is still considered a character in good standing; he hasn't been convicted of any crime.

Joey was arrested and held overnight in their neighboring Australia for punching a Falls Festival security guard during an ID check gone awry, moments before he took the stage for the annual New Year's celebration. The man reportedly sustained multiple facial injuries including a broken nose.

In some vague regards, Joey immediately contested the claims. After the story began circulating in the media, he posted a note to Twitter reminding fans not to believe everything seen or heard. And while he may not soon offer up any more details — at least until the case closes — his rep, Bradley Bledsoe, did say that he "entered a plea of not guilty to the charge."

Joey is expected back in Australian court March 9.

He's been on tour of the Southern Hemisphere in support of his upcoming debut album, B4.DA.$, slated for release Jan. 20.

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(Photo: David Wolff - Patrick/Redferns via Getty Images)

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