Former NFL player Shawne Merriman is suing Nike for trademark infringement & unfair competition over its “Lights Out” apparel line.
Hit the jump for more details…
Via ESPN/Associated Press:
The suit, filed on behalf of Merriman’s Lights Out Holdings LLC, was filed in U.S. District Court on Monday.
According to the suit, after Nike and Merriman unsuccessfully negotiated to create a Lights Out apparel line in 2006 or 2007, the company used the name anyway.
The lawsuit says Merriman acquired the federal trademark rights for Lights Out in 2007.
He was nicknamed “Lights Out” after knocking out opponents in a high school game.
The suit demands an injunction to stop trademark infringement and related unfair business practices, as well as damages to be determined at trial.
A spokesman for Nike didn’t respond to calls and an email seeking comment.
