He received an avascular necrosis diagnosis and underwent surgery to treat the death of bone tissue caused by a lack of blood supply. He also required a hip replacement. In his lawsuit, Solomon said the Nuggets informed him they would hold tryouts for the mascot position because of "his record of impairment and their lack of confidence in his health.

Drake Solomon, who took over the role of “Rocky” from his father, says he was fired months after having a hip replacement surgery, according to the lawsuit.