WWE and the Undisputed Champion Cody Rhodes are being sued by Wesley Eisold for the use of the “American Nightmare” trademark. Cody Rhodes uses the nickname “American Nightmare” in WWE, which is based on his father’s iconic nickname “American Dream.” However, outside of the wrestling business, there is a band called American Nightmare, and the frontman is now suing the company and Rhodes over merchandising that includes the name and trademark.
The complaint is filed in the federal court of California and alleges trademark infringement, breach of contract and intentional interference with contractual agreements. Wesley has owned the trademark for clothing, music and entertainment services since 2016. He previously agreed with Rhodes to use the nickname while Cody was in AEW when he attempted to file a trademark on his nickname in 2019.
The frontman seeks an amount more than $150,000
According to the lawsuit, the agreement reached by the parties in 2021 allowed Cody to use the trademark provided the use cases met several requirements. However, now Eisold is claiming that the deal has been violated because he sold merchandise that has the name but makes no reference to him as a wrestler. He also claims that there is confusion in the marketplace because some people wear Rhodes’ merchandise to his band’s concerts and he is regularly tagged on social media in stories involving Rhodes even though he has nothing to do with them. Wesley is seeking treble damages of at least $150,000 and a maximum of $300,000 for federal trademark infringement, plus attorney costs.
Cody is focusing on what’s next for his title reign
Cody Rhodes successfully defended his title against Kevin Owens at Bash in Berlin and is now focused on what’s next for his undisputed WWE title reign. Rhodes and Owens managed to remain friends in Germany, although some tensions were growing as KO was unable to show the lethal edge needed to finish the champion when he had the chance. After the match, they shaked hands. Cody will now focus on Solo Sikoa, who appears to be next in line for the title. He has made it clear that he will face whoever wins in Berlin, and Rhodes will answer that on the upcoming episode of WWE SmackDown.
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