The Odd Future star, real name Thebe Neruda Kgositsile, was performing at the Max Watts venue on Saturday (25Jul15), and video footage shows a man jumping onstage and grabbing the rapper from behind.

A representative for the star says, "Earl was attacked as far as any artist performing onstage would be concerned that is ambushed from behind, not hugged."

Meanwhile, Earl Sweatshirt took to Twitter on Sunday (26Jul15) to comment on the incident, suggesting he acted in self-defence.

He writes, "keep your hands to yourself and don't sneak up on n**gas in the middle of soul bearing... I'm not a tough guy!! I don't like my personal space breached just like you. just respect n**gas out here man not just me respect everybody (sic)".