The R&B singer is facing an allegation of causing grievous bodily harm with intent, and has been charged.
He is accused of attacking music producer Abraham Diaw with a bottle at the Tape nightclub in central London.
The incident allegedly took place back in February 2023.
During a hearing at Manchester Magistrates’ Court, prosecutor Hannah Nicholls said Brown had committed “an unprovoked attack with a weapon in a nightclub full of people”.
Brown arrived at the dock flanked by court officials. His hair was bleached blond, and he wore sweatpants and a black T-shirt.
District Judge Joanne Hirst said the alleged offence was “too serious” to be dealt with in her court, and sent the case to London’s Southwark Crown Court.
He will next appear for a plea and trial preparation hearing in the capital on 13 June after a bail application was denied.
The 36-year-old was arrested at a hotel in Manchester in the early hours of Thursday by detectives from the Metropolitan Police.
Brown’s global tour is due to begin in The Netherlands on 8 June, and he is also scheduled to perform at Manchester’s Co-op Live Arena on 15 June.
Prior to the court hearing, CPS London North’s deputy chief crown prosecutor Adele Kelly said: “The Crown Prosecution Service reminds all concerned that criminal proceedings against this defendant are active and that he has the right to a fair trial.
“It is extremely important that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings.”
Brown’s representatives have been contacted for comment.
