A significant court hearing has been scheduled for October concerning the ongoing legal dispute involving Cody Rhodes and WWE. This case centers on the trademark rights to the nickname “American Nightmare,” which Rhodes has used during his wrestling career, sparking conflict with Wesley Eisold, the frontman of the hardcore punk band American Nightmare.
The 40-year-old wrestling star, frustrated with his character’s direction in WWE’s Stamford promotion, left the company in 2016. Afterward, Rhodes began competing on the independent circuit, adopting the “American Nightmare” persona as a nod to his late father, Dusty Rhodes, famously known as the “American Dream.”
Background on the Trademark Dispute Between Rhodes and Eisold
Rhodes applied to trademark “American Nightmare” during his run with All Elite Wrestling (AEW) in 2019. However, Eisold had already trademarked the name in 2016, triggering a legal conflict. The two parties reached an agreement, permitting Rhodes to use the trademark on his merchandise only if his personal logo or image was at least 75% larger than the words “American Nightmare.” Rhodes complied and paid Eisold a one-time fee of $30,000 to settle this arrangement.
Rhodes resumed his use of the nickname upon returning to WWE and also secured a separate trademark for a stylized crown logo that incorporated the “American Nightmare” phrase. Eisold later alleged that WWE, Rhodes, and their merchandising partner Fanatics violated the 2021 agreement by not maintaining the agreed-upon size proportions.
In 2024, Eisold issued a cease-and-desist order, but stated that his demands were ignored, escalating the dispute to formal legal action.
Upcoming Court Proceedings and Legal Timelines
Following Eisold’s lawsuit against Rhodes and WWE, the wrestling company sought dismissal of the case on the grounds that they were not involved in the initial licensing deal, as Rhodes was unsigned with WWE at the time. According to Mike Johnson of PWInsider, Eisold must file a response by September 12, while WWE and Rhodes have until September 26 to submit their counter-response.
The court has set October 10 for a hearing to consider WWE’s motion to dismiss the case. Additionally, a conference to schedule further proceedings will take place on October 31. These developments intensify an already tense atmosphere surrounding the trademark conflict.
The Importance of the Lawsuit for Cody Rhodes and WWE
This case holds major implications for Cody Rhodes’ ability to control the branding of his wrestling persona, especially as he continues to compete at the highest levels in WWE, holding the Undisputed WWE Championship. The outcome could influence merchandising rights and future use of iconic wrestling nicknames tied deeply to his family legacy.
WWE’s involvement, despite claims of non-participation at the time the original trademark was registered, also underscores the complexities of intellectual property rights in professional wrestling, where character identities are closely guarded assets. The court’s rulings in October will likely set precedents for how trademarks are handled when wrestlers move between promotions or adopt established monikers.
“The defendants have been given until September 26 to file their response.” —Mike Johnson, PWInsider
“Also, the court will hear the motion regarding the dismissal of the case filed by the defendants on October 10.” —Mike Johnson, PWInsider
