The ongoing dispute between Lamar Jackson and Troy Aikman over the use of the number 8 in trademarks has taken a legal turn, with Jackson challenging Aikman’s application for the trademark “EIGHT” on apparel and bags. Jackson argues that this would cause confusion among consumers as to whether they are purchasing products from him or Aikman’s company.
Both NFL players, Jackson and Aikman, have a significant connection to the number 8 throughout their professional careers. Aikman wore the number during his time with the Dallas Cowboys, while Jackson sported it during his college days at Louisville. Jackson’s attorney claims that he has invested time and effort in promoting and popularizing the number 8 in connection with his personality and fame, making him synonymous with the number.
Trademark Applications
Jackson has applied for multiple trademarks incorporating the number 8, such as “Era 8 by Lamar Jackson” and “You 8 yet?” among others. His attorney argues that these trademarks were registered before Aikman’s “Eight” and that Aikman’s products bear a striking resemblance to Jackson’s trademarks. The dispute raises questions about the ownership of numbers in trademarks, with legal experts weighing in on the matter.
Christine Farley, a law professor and intellectual property expert, explains that almost anything can be trademarked, including numbers. She highlights the importance of the visual appearance of trademarks and the different categories of use. The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office database reveals thousands of trademarks containing the word “eight” or the numeral “8,” indicating the prevalence of number-related trademarks.
Aikman’s company, FL101, has until August 18 to respond to the trademark office regarding Jackson’s complaints. The company, which lists Aikman as one of its directors, may argue that consumers would not be confused by the use of a number in purchasing decisions. The outcome of this legal battle could set a precedent for similar disputes involving numbers in trademarks.
Jackson and Aikman are not the only prominent athletes associated with the number 8. Hall of Fame quarterback Steve Young, along with baseball legends Cal Ripken Jr., Yogi Berra, and Carl Yastrzemski, as well as basketball icons Kobe Bryant and Walt Bellamy, have all donned the number on their jerseys. The dispute between Jackson and Aikman adds another layer to the legacy of the number 8 in sports.
The clash between Lamar Jackson and Troy Aikman over the ownership of the number 8 in trademarks underscores the complexities of intellectual property rights in sports. While both players have a legitimate claim to the number based on their respective careers, the legal battle will ultimately determine who has the right to use it in commercial ventures. As the two sides prepare for a legal showdown, the outcome of this dispute could have far-reaching implications for future trademark disputes involving numbers.
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