The sports entertainment world has been abuzz with controversy in recent times, with several high-profile lawsuits and trademark disputes making headlines. The latest development in this ongoing saga comes from WWE, which, along with its video game partner 2K, is pushing back against a lawsuit claiming that The Bloodline’s signature pose was borrowed from an independent Arkansas wrestling promotion.
The Lawsuit in Question
Nathaniel Tatha-Nanandji, the promoter behind the now-defunct WCWA Wrestling, is suing WWE and 2K over allegations that The Bloodline’s iconic pose, which features the trio’s signature gesture in the ring, was lifted from WCWA’s “The Bloodline” faction. According to the lawsuit, the pose was first introduced by WCWA’s Bloodline in the early 2010s and has since been adopted by WWE’s version of the group, comprised of Roman Reigns, Solo Sikoa, and Paul Heyman.
WWE and 2K’s Counter-Claim
In response to the lawsuit, WWE and 2K have moved to dismiss the claims, arguing that the pose in question is a common wrestling gesture and cannot be trademarked or copyrighted. According to sources close to the matter, WWE and 2K believe that the lawsuit is without merit and that the Bloodline’s pose is a clear example of a “non-protectable” gesture, often referred to as a “commonplace” or “generic” move.
“We believe that the claims made in this lawsuit are baseless and without substance,” a WWE spokesperson stated. “The Bloodline’s pose is a classic example of a wrestling gesture that has been used in various forms and iterations throughout the history of professional wrestling. We are confident that the courts will see through this frivolous lawsuit and dismiss it accordingly.”
Independent Wrestling Promotions and the Ownership of Intellectual Property
The lawsuit has also raised questions about the ownership of intellectual property in the independent wrestling scene. With the rise of social media and online platforms, it’s become increasingly easier for independent promotions to reach a wider audience and gain recognition for their talents and intellectual property.
However, this increased visibility has also led to a proliferation of lawsuits and disputes over ownership and copyright. As the wrestling world continues to evolve and grow, it’s likely that we’ll see more of these types of disputes arise, particularly as independent promotions and WWE continue to intersect and overlap.
The Potential Impact on The Bloodline and WWE
If the lawsuit were to succeed, it could have significant implications for The Bloodline and WWE as a whole. The Bloodline has been one of the most dominant forces in WWE over the past few years, with Roman Reigns’ Universal Championship reign serving as a major storyline arc for the faction.
However, a loss in court could lead to significant changes for the group, potentially forcing WWE to rebrand or alter its signature pose in some way. This could have a ripple effect throughout the WWE roster, with other groups and performers potentially feeling the impact of the decision.
Backstage Reaction and Insight
According to a WWE insider, the company is taking the lawsuit very seriously and is working closely with its lawyers to ensure that the claims are thoroughly investigated and addressed.
“WWE takes all allegations of intellectual property theft seriously, and we’re committed to protecting our intellectual property and the rights of our talent,” the insider stated. “We’re confident that the courts will see through this frivolous lawsuit and dismiss it accordingly.”
Conclusion
The lawsuit against WWE and 2K over The Bloodline’s gesture claim may seem like a minor issue on the surface, but it has the potential to have far-reaching implications for the world of professional wrestling. As the industry continues to evolve and grow, it’s likely that we’ll see more of these types of disputes arise, particularly as independent promotions and WWE continue to intersect and overlap.
Only time will tell how this lawsuit will play out, but one thing is certain: the world of professional wrestling is about to get a whole lot more interesting.