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Richard Simmons has filed a libel lawsuit against some publications, including the National Enquirer, Radar Online and American Media, Inc., for publishing "cruel and malicious" articles about him transitioning from male to female. In the court papers he filed on Monday, May 8, Richard is alleging his former associate, Mauro Oliveira, has sold false and libelous information about him to the publications.

Richard is seeking unspecified damages as well as an apology and retraction for stories published by the publications between June 2016 and March of this year, including reports of "shocking sex surgery," breast implants, hormone treatments and consultations on medical castration. In his complaint, the fitness guru calls the reports "particularly egregious" because they are not accurate representations of his identity.

"National Enquirer and Radar Online have miscalculated," reads the complaint. "The National Enquirer and Radar Online have cheaply and crassly commercialized and sensationalized an issue that ought to be treated with respect and sensitivity. Principles of freedom of speech and press may protect their prerogative to mock and degrade the LGBTQ community."

In his complaint, Richard also claims he is a victim of "blackmail, extortion and stalking" by Mauro, who wants to destroy his career and reputation. Richard believes Mauro contacted several press outlets, including the National Enquirer and Radar, and offered information on "Mr. Simmons' disappearance in exchange for a fee."

An American Media, Inc. spokesperson responds to the lawsuit, telling PEOPLE that they maintain the accuracy of their articles. "While we have not seen Mr. Simmons' complaint, we stand by our reporting about him, all of which was based on solid sourcing and material evidence," the rep says. "Should he choose to proceed with his lawsuit, we will defend it vigorously, and we look forward to the public vindication of our reports."