In a move that escalates a confrontation between an ousted athletic director and New Mexico State University, Mario Moccia has lodged a formal complaint against the NMSU Board of Regents. Dated November 21, the complaint stems from what Moccia describes as an "unlawful and politically motivated" dismissal from his role in January 2025. According to KTSM, Moccia claims protection under a "for-cause termination provision" within his contract, which he argues was violated by the university.
The figures at the center of this dispute are not insignificant. Moccia is seeking $1,402,700 for the balance left on his contract, additional benefits, and earned incentive compensation. He also requests coverage of attorney and arbitration fees. Conflicting with the spirit of his departure, the complaint includes discourse around a sexual assault incident involving the university's men's basketball team and recounts Moccia's response to the allegations, as reported by KVIA. The complaint filed in the Third Judicial District Court cites wrongful termination and breach of contract as the main grievances.
This legal action is not without a backdrop. In January, Moccia was severed from NMSU following a probe into a 2022 hazing scandal that clouded the men's basketball team, which Moccia had overseen. The narrative put forth by Moccia's team contends that, in conjunction with the University President Valerio Ferme's first day in his position, Ferme decided to terminate Moccia. This decision, outlined in the lawsuit, marks the commencement of the broader legal battle now unfurling, as captured by KFOX-TV.
