Latest Twist In Cody Rhodes & WWE Lawsuit

Cody Rhodes and WWE have been given more time as they face a lawsuit that it seeking almost a million dollars in damages.

Lead singer and founder of the band American Nightmare Wesley Eisold filed a lawsuit against Cody Rhodes, WWE, and Fanatics alleging trademark infringement, breach of contract, and intentional interference with contractual relations back in 2024.

Eisold holds the trademark for “American Nightmare” for use in music, clothing, and entertainment services and has done so since 2016. In 2019, Rhodes attempted to trademark the phrase for use in wrestling, but the filing was opposed by Eisold.

The two sides eventually reached a settlement in 2021 where “Eisold consented to Runnels’ registration of “The American Nightmare” in connection solely with class 41, i.e., entertainment services.”

As part of the settlement, Rhodes was allowed to use “The American Nightmare” on merchandise on the condition it featured his name, likeness, or wrestling imagery 75% bigger than any “American Nightmare” text.

Cody Rhodes & WWE Get Lawsuit Extension

In exchange, Rhodes made a one-off payment of $30,000 to Eisold. However, Eisold now claims that Rhodes, WWE, and Fanatics have breached this agreement. The filing alleges that the defendants “blatantly violate” the original agreement.

In the latest update on the situation reported by PWInsider, the defendants have now been given an extension until April 7 to respond to the allegations.

Eisold is seeking a jury trial, a judgment against Rhodes that he committed several infractions as well as similar judgments against WWE and Fanatics. Eisold is also seeking damages of $900,000 and an injunction to prevent the sale of any merchandise that violates his trademark.