A trademark dispute involving Cody Rhodes and WWE has escalated, with a recent update detailing a $900,000 damage claim and upcoming court dates. Musician Wesley Eisold, frontman of the hard rock band American Nightmare, filed a lawsuit against Rhodes, WWE, and Fanatics, alleging breach of contract related to the use of the “American Nightmare” moniker.
Rhodes initially filed for the trademark in 2019; however, Eisold, who has owned the name since 2016, challenged the claim. The two parties reached a settlement allowing Rhodes to use “The American Nightmare” on his merchandise, provided his name appeared prominently at 75% or larger than the moniker, and Rhodes paid Eisold $30,000. Eisold now claims that Rhodes, WWE, and Fanatics violated these terms.
Legal Proceedings and Court Dates Announced
Wesley Eisold has formally requested a jury trial, accusing Rhodes of breaching the contract and holding WWE and Fanatics responsible for inducing this breach. He seeks $900,000 in compensation. According to a recent PWInsider report, WWE, Rhodes, and Fanatics attempted to dismiss the case by September 12, 2025. Eisold must respond by then, and the defendants are required to reply by September 26.
A court hearing is scheduled for October 10, 2025, at 10 a.m. to address WWE’s motion to dismiss, followed by a case scheduling conference set for October 31, 2025. These developments intensify the legal battle between the parties involved.
Cody Rhodes’ Anticipated Return to WWE at Wrestlepalooza
Following a notable attack by Drew McIntyre on SmackDown on August 8, 2025, Cody Rhodes took a break from WWE, with speculation that he was focusing on outside projects, including the Street Fighter film. Recent rumors suggest that Rhodes is preparing to return to WWE during the upcoming Wrestlepalooza event.
Tripe H, WWE’s Chief Content Officer, has confirmed Rhodes’ return, likely to face The Scottish Warrior in a one-on-one match. The specifics of Rhodes’ role at Wrestlepalooza remain under wraps, leaving fans eager to see what WWE has planned for their Undisputed WWE Champion.
Implications of the Legal Dispute and Future Prospects
The legal battle over the “American Nightmare” trademark poses significant challenges for Cody Rhodes and WWE, potentially impacting merchandise sales and brand usage. The upcoming court hearings will be critical in determining the outcome of the breach of contract allegations and any financial penalties.
Meanwhile, Rhodes’ return to WWE signals his commitment to resuming his in-ring career despite ongoing legal issues. How this lawsuit influences his tenure and the company’s future dealings with its talent remain points of interest for fans and industry watchers alike.
“It remains to be seen what the Stamford-based promotion has planned for Cody Rhodes at Wrestlepalooza.” —[No attribution]
“He will most probably go one-on-one against The Scottish Warrior at the event.” —Triple H, WWE Chief Content Officer
