In the early hours of Monday, Cuban actress Zajaris Fernández shared her detailed account of the tumultuous encounter with comedian Alexis Valdés that took place the previous night at a Miami bar during the 2026 World Cup final between Spain and Argentina.
During an Instagram live session lasting over 31 minutes, Zajaris explained she arrived at the venue at the invitation of friends who had reserved a table to watch the match, unaware that Valdés and his wife, Claudia Valdés, were also present.
Unexpected Confrontation at the Bar
Zajaris recounted that Claudia initiated the confrontation by approaching her and demanding she leave the bar, asking, with apparent hostility, "Do you speak Spanish?"
The actress refused to comply, puzzled by the request. Shortly afterward, Alexis Valdés reportedly approached her table multiple times, accusing her of being an ally of broadcaster Alex Otaola, of defaming his daughters, and labeling her a "drug addict."
Firmly denying these allegations, Zajaris stated, "I don't drink alcohol. I never have a drink in my life. People who go out with me know I drink water."
Escalation of Tensions
The situation intensified when Zajaris attempted to record the altercation on her phone. According to her account, Valdés knocked her phone down twice, damaging the screen and rear camera, and pushed her, prompting others to physically intervene.
Zajaris contacted the police, who arrived on the scene, documented the incident, and instructed Alexis and Claudia Valdés to leave the premises. Although her attorney advised pressing charges, Zajaris opted not to: "I felt uneasy about it," she explained.
Roots of the Conflict
Addressing the root of the conflict, Zajaris was candid: "The only issue we might have is over some money. Nothing else," referring to a debt she claims Valdés owes her and has never pursued.
She also refuted claims of being allied with Otaola: "I haven't spoken to Otaola in two years now. Yet I continue to support his ideals, those that relate to me."
Artistic Respect Amid Conflict
Despite the dispute, Zajaris acknowledged the comedian's talent, even while speaking with officers: "He is a great Cuban artist, because to me he was, he is, a talented guy, and that is undisputed."
The actress framed the incident as a direct assault on her freedom of expression and her anti-communist political stance, equating Valdés' actions to tactics used by the Cuban regime: "Today, you acted in an abusive, socialist-communist manner. You broke my phone."
Zajaris emphasized that the location had security cameras that likely captured the entire event, expressing no fear or shame if the footage were to be reviewed. The altercation between Alexis Valdés and Zajaris unfolded in front of numerous witnesses at the establishment.
Historical Feud with Otaola
The conflict between Valdés and Otaola dates back to 2022, with both engaged in a public dispute where the comedian has called the broadcaster a "mercenary" and a "soulless psychopath." Accusations of being "Otaola's ally" serve as a marker of allegiance within the divisions of the Cuban exile community in Miami.
Zajaris concluded her live session with a statement summarizing her stance on the events: "Down with the dictatorship and those who act like dictators, regardless of their side."
The police report on the incident is expected to be available approximately 14 days after the altercation, around August 2.
Key Questions About the Miami Bar Incident
What sparked the confrontation between Zajaris Fernández and Claudia Valdés?
The confrontation began when Claudia approached Zajaris and asked her to leave, questioning her in a hostile manner about whether she spoke Spanish.
How did Zajaris Fernández respond to accusations from Alexis Valdés?
Zajaris firmly denied the accusations, asserting that she does not drink alcohol and refuting any claims of being a "drug addict" or an ally of Alex Otaola.
What action did Zajaris Fernández take after the altercation?
Zajaris called the police, who documented the incident and instructed Alexis and Claudia Valdés to leave. Despite advice to press charges, she chose not to pursue legal action.