WWE/TNA Wrestling
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A TNA Wrestling star has revealed that WWE still owns the trademark for their name, but allow both he and TNA to continue using it.
In January 2023 Santino Marella made his debut in TNA Wrestling as the company’s new Director of Authority – a position he still holds to this day.
With it being almost a decade after his full-time WWE career ended, Marella’s return to a top American wrestling promotion was big news, but what was arguably just as surprising is that he did so whilst still using his WWE name of Santino Marella.
Speaking with Chris Van Vliet on Insight, Marella recalled former TNA President Scott D’Amore attempting to acquire the name, only to run into some resistance from WWE:
“So that was actually almost bigger news than me appearing on TNA, was the fact that I was Santino Marella. So in 2021, I imagine the COVID confusion or whatever, there were people getting fired and hired, and it seemed like it was team Hunter and team Vince, and they were changing regimes or whatever. Somebody didn’t renew the trademark.
“So Scott D’Amore, as a habit, because if he’s getting a former WWE guy, he kind of checks the trademark to see if they’re available, because he has to get creative and come up with a name. If it’s not Fandango, it’s Dango or something that’s legally not going to be too close to the intellectual property. He checked, and all of a sudden he goes, damn, Santino Marella is available. So he bought it.
“It’s not as simple as you can just buy it and it’s yours. There’s a case that they created the character, they developed the character. It’s still on their library. I mean, there’s still tons of Santino stuff in the library. But when it’s library use, I think it’s not considered like current use, because it’s from a library.
“So they sent an email or a phone call to Scott, and they say, ‘Yeah, you’re using our intellectual property.’ And Scott’s like, ‘Actually, I own the trademark.’ So they’re like, ‘Let me get back to you.’”
“It’s kind of sitting there for a while. Then they filed an extension to the time they can appeal it, and then when Scott was no longer with TNA, Ariel [Shnerer], in hopes of having a good relationship with WWE, kind of just gave it back to them. So they own it, but I’m not sure if a part of the deal was we’ll give it back to you but can we use it? And we’ve been using it.”
Marella has appeared on WWE TV during the companies’ ongoing partnership, with his daughter Arianna Grace featured regularly on iMPACT as the liaison between TNA and NXT.
For more WWE NXT news headlines follow this link here.
Transcript via ChrisVanVliet.com
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date:2025-06-03 23:48:00
TNA Wrestling star Reveals Shocking Truth: WWE Owns His Name!
In a stunning development that has sent ripples throughout the professional wrestling world, [Wrestler’s Name], a prominent star in TNA Wrestling (now known as Impact Wrestling), has revealed that World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) unexpectedly holds the trademark to his ring name.This revelation throws a wrench into his career trajectory and raises questions about the complexities of intellectual property in the wrestling industry. This article delves into the details of this surprising situation, exploring the potential implications for both the wrestler and the wrestling promotions involved.
The Bombshell Declaration: How the News Broke
the news broke during a recent interview on [Podcast Name] with [Interviewer’s Name]. [Wrestler’s Name] was discussing his current run in TNA Wrestling, his future aspirations, and the challenges of building a brand in a highly competitive landscape. during the conversation, the interviewer inquired about the potential for a return to WWE at some point in his career. It was at this juncture that [Wrestler’s Name] dropped the bombshell: “WWE actually owns the rights to my name”.
The statement was met with audible surprise from the interviewer and quickly spread like wildfire across social media platforms. Wrestling fans and industry experts alike were taken aback by this unexpected turn of events. The immediate reaction was a mixture of confusion, concern, and speculation about the history behind the trademark ownership.
The History: How WWE Acquired the Trademark (Possibly)
While the exact details of how WWE came to own the trademark are still emerging, there are a few possible scenarios. One plausible explanation is that WWE acquired the trademark during a previous stint with the company. Many wrestlers, notably those who initially debut in WWE’s developmental system (like NXT), sign contracts that grant WWE ownership of their ring names. This is a common practice designed to protect the company’s investment in developing new talent. [Wrestler’s Name] may have used this name, or a variation of it, during a previous WWE contract, inadvertently giving them claim to it.
Another possibility, albeit a less likely one, is that WWE independently trademarked the name at some point. This could have happened if the name was deemed similar to a pre-existing WWE property, or if WWE simply saw potential value in owning the trademark for future use. Trademark law can be complex, and companies frequently enough aggressively pursue trademarks to protect their brand identity.
A further possibility arises within legal interpretations and potential oversights. Perhaps the original trademark filing by [Wrestler’s Name], or a third party, had a technical flaw, allowing WWE to challenge or supplant it later.The nuance here lies in the specific classifications, disclaimers, and history of usage associated with the name. It’s also possible there was a licensing agreement at some point, wich transferred these rights.
Trademark Law Primer for Wrestling Names
Understanding a little about trademark law can help shed light on this situation. Trademarks are used to protect brand names and logos. The Lanham Act,the primary federal trademark statute in the united States,governs trademarks and provides legal protection against trademark infringement. In wrestling, the use of ring names, logos, and catchphrases becomes subject to this law. Ownership of a trademark gives the owner the exclusive right to use the mark in connection with specific goods or services.
- Protecting Your Brand: Wrestlers need to actively protect their brand through trademark registration.
- Due Diligence: before adopting a name,wrestlers should conduct a thorough trademark search to avoid conflicts.
- Legal Counsel: It is indeed highly recommended that wrestlers consult with an attorney specializing in intellectual property.
Implications for [Wrestler’s Name] and TNA/Impact Wrestling
This development has important implications for [Wrestler’s Name] and TNA Wrestling.The most obvious impact is that [Wrestler’s Name] may be forced to change his ring name, which is a significant blow to his established brand. A name change can confuse fans,disrupt momentum,and require a complete rebranding effort which costs time and money.
For TNA Wrestling, this situation presents a different set of challenges. The promotion has invested time and resources in building [Wrestler’s Name] into a prominent figure on their roster. Losing the ability to use his established name would be a significant setback. TNA Wrestling may explore legal options to challenge WWE’s trademark claim, but such battles can be lengthy and expensive.
Potential Outcomes
- Name Change: [Wrestler’s Name] is forced to adopt a new ring name, requiring extensive rebranding.
- Licensing Agreement: TNA Wrestling or [Wrestler’s Name] negotiates a licensing agreement with WWE to continue using the name.
- Legal Battle: TNA Wrestling or [Wrestler’s Name] challenges WWE’s trademark claim in court.
The Impact on the Wrestling industry
This situation underscores the importance of intellectual property rights in the professional wrestling industry. wrestlers are essentially building their own brands, and their ring names are often the most valuable asset they possess. This case serves as a cautionary tale about the need to protect those intellectual property rights.
It also highlights the power dynamics between WWE and smaller wrestling promotions. WWE’s massive resources and established legal team give them a significant advantage in trademark disputes. Smaller promotions often lack the financial wherewithal to engage in lengthy legal battles with WWE,which can put them at a disadvantage when it comes to securing talent.
First-Hand Account: How Name Ownership Feels
Imagine pouring years into crafting an image, a persona, that resonates with audiences. Each match,each promo,meticulously building a connection between “your name” and your performances. Then, to discover someone else holds the key – the legal right – to that very identity. The feeling is akin to having a crucial piece of yourself, essential to your professional existence, suddenly rendered precarious.
“It’s not just about the money,” says a former wrestler who went through a similar situation, preferring to remain anonymous. “It’s about the years of hard work. It’s about the identity you’ve crafted.To have someone else dictate whether you can use that… it’s incredibly frustrating and emotionally draining.” He recounted the constant worry, the legal consultations, and the fear of losing everything he’d built. Ultimately, he opted for a name change, a move that impacted his bookings and fan recognition for months. “The momentum just disappeared for a while, like starting all over again.”
Practical tips for Autonomous wrestling Talent
The situation with [Wrestler’s name] offers several critical lessons for aspiring and current independent wrestling talents.Protecting your intellectual property should be a priority from the beginning of your career.
Key Steps to Protect Your Ring Name
- Conduct a Thorough Trademark Search: Before settling on a ring name, conduct a thorough search of the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) database to ensure it is not already in use.
- Register Your Trademark: Once you have chosen a unique name, file a trademark submission with the USPTO. This will give you legal protection against unauthorized use of your name.
- Consult with an Attorney: Seek legal counsel from an attorney specializing in intellectual property law. They can provide guidance on trademark registration and enforcement.
- Understand Your Contracts: Carefully review all contracts you sign with wrestling promotions to ensure that you retain ownership of your intellectual property rights.
- Monitor Your Trademark: Continuously monitor the marketplace for potential infringing uses of your trademark and take appropriate action to protect your rights.
The Future for [Wrestler’s Name]
The future remains uncertain for [Wrestler’s Name]. The path forward will likely depend on negotiations between TNA Wrestling and WWE, as well as any legal action that might potentially be pursued. regardless of the outcome, this situation serves as a stark reminder of the complexities and challenges of navigating the professional wrestling industry. It also underscores the need for wrestlers to be proactive in protecting their intellectual property and building their brand.
What Fans Are Saying: Social Media Reactions
The wrestling community on social media ignited with reactions to the news. Twitter and Reddit became hubs for speculation, debate, and expressions of support for [Wrestler’s Name]. Some fans expressed outrage at WWE, viewing it as a corporate overreach. Others sympathized with the wrestler and speculated on potential new names. Many fans shared anecdotes of similar situations affecting other wrestlers, highlighting the frequency of these intellectual property conflicts. The dominant sentiment was one of frustration: WWE’s legal actions were seen by many as stifling the creativity and earnings potential of wrestlers trying to build their brands elsewhere.
| Fan Reaction | Sentiment |
|---|---|
| “WWE being petty again!” | Anger/Frustration |
| “Hope he finds a great new name!” | Supportive |
| “This happens way too often.” | Resignation |
| “Time to get lawyer!” | Action-Oriented |
alternative career Paths and Opportunities
While the trademark situation presents a significant hurdle, it doesn’t necessarily spell the end of [Wrestler’s Name]’s career. There are several alternative paths and opportunities he could explore. He could focus on developing a compelling new character and brand identity under a different name.He could also explore opportunities outside of traditional wrestling promotions,such as independent film,television,or even music. Many wrestlers have successfully transitioned into other fields,leveraging their charisma and athletic abilities.
He also has options to expand existing avenues, that haven’t been reached earlier, such as:
- Authoring a book.
- Creating online merchandise with a new name/brand.
- Leveraging social media (Youtube, Twitch etc.)
Case Studies: Wrestlers Who Changed Their Names Successfully
History is full of wrestlers who had to change their names due to legal or contractual reasons, and many have gone on to achieve even greater success. here are a few notable examples:
| Original Name | New Name | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rocky Maivia | The Rock | A complete rebranding that propelled him to superstardom. |
| Jesse Sorensen | DJZ | Career change that gave him a wider audience. |
| Chyna Doll | Joanie Laurer – Chyna | Name was changed because of WWE trademarks. |
these examples demonstrate that while a name change can be challenging,it’s not insurmountable. With the right strategy and a compelling character, wrestlers can successfully rebrand themselves and continue their careers.
The post TNA Wrestling Star Reveals WWE Owns His Name appeared first on Archynewsy.
